StartupGrind is hiring a Senior Fullstack Developer (with Applied AI Experience)

StartupGrind is looking for a Senior Fullstack Developer with applied AI experience to build and integrate AI tools into user-facing production features. This role focuses on practical application, using AI to improve workflows, automate tasks, and enhance the user experience, while serving as a technical reference for AI integration.

What You'll Do

• Use and experiment with AI tools like OpenAI, Claude, or Hugging Face to improve workflows, automate tasks, or enhance user experience.
• Proactively research and pitch AI-driven ideas that could add value to the platform.
• Build fast MVPs using external APIs or lightweight models to test hypotheses and validate concepts.
• Translate early-stage ideas or internal drafts into working prototypes with real user impact.
• Act as a reference for AI integration within squads — technically and in product thinking and prioritization.
• Stay curious: learn, test, iterate, and turn insights into shipped features.

What We're Looking For

• 5+ years of experience as a fullstack or backend-heavy developer.
• Strong production experience with Node.js (Express/Nest).
• Comfortable reading and collaborating with PHP code during migration.
• Real-world experience using Docker, REST APIs, automated testing, and CI/CD pipelines.
• Hands-on experience integrating AI tools like OpenAI, Claude, Hugging Face, embeddings, or agents.
• At least 2 years actively exploring applied AI through real projects.
• Ability to ship MVPs quickly and iterate based on feedback.
• Naturally curious, self-directed, and proactive about exploring new technologies.

Nice to Have

• Experience with React.js.

Technical Stack

• Node.js, Express/Nest, React.js, PHP
• Docker, REST APIs
• OpenAI, Claude, Hugging Face

Benefits & Compensation

• A high-impact role with autonomy and ownership from day one.
• The chance to shape how the platform adopts AI across real user-facing features.
• A remote-first company with a bias for action and a culture of continuous learning.
• No micromanagement, no red tape — just bold moves, smart people, and meaningful work.
• Compensation: USD $3,000 - $4,000 per month, negotiable based on stack and experience.

Work Mode

This is a fully remote position.

We value a mindset of delivering real impact over perfect architecture, treating AI as a practical tool, and thriving in a fast-paced, iterative environment.