Founding Engineer: Manipulation
Intelligence Factory
Join Intelligence Factory to develop foundational models for general-purpose manipulation, overseeing the entire model pipeline from data curation to training.
Last checked on June 4, 2026. We may earn a commission when you click through.
Intelligence Factory offers an intriguing chance for engineers passionate about robotics, but requires significant technical expertise.
Founding Engineer: Manipulation
Intelligence Factory
Updated 5 days agoYou'll be redirected to ycombinator.com
Intelligence Factory offers an intriguing chance for engineers passionate about robotics, but requires significant technical expertise.
About this role
We're building foundational models for general purpose manipulation. Our data infrastructure allows us to generate rich, multi-modal human demonstration data at exponential scale.
We are using this data to train general-purpose manipulation models that work reliably across tasks, objects, and robot embodiments.
As founding engineer, you'll own the model pipeline end-to-end - data curation, selecting architecture, training and evaluation. You'll have $750K in compute credits across Azure, AWS, and GCP, NVIDIA Inception perks, and a bespoke data pipeline already running.
You should have:
Experience implementing models end-to-end on robots, or research experience in VLAs, world models, or imitation learning Proof of decision-making with incomplete information Extremely competitive nature A track record that shows you genuinely want to see robots deployed in the real world - projects, research, or competitions
Our culture is built on honesty and willingness to fail fast. If you see yourself fitting here, please apply.
Comp:
$80K-$200K 0.1%-5% equity Incredible office in downtown SF. Equipment budget, meals, etc.
About the Company
Intelligence Factory focuses on integrating human intelligence into robotics, enhancing their operational capabilities.
Key Highlights
- ✓ Own the entire model pipeline from data to deployment.
- ✓ Access to $750K in compute credits across major cloud platforms.
- ✓ Work with cutting-edge technology in robotics and AI.
💡 Honest Take: This role is best for those with hands-on experience in robotics and model implementation. New graduates are welcome, but expect a steep learning curve.
Pros
- ✓ Competitive salary range of $80K - $200K.
- ✓ Possibility for visa sponsorship.
- ✓ Access to advanced resources and cloud credits.
Cons
- ✗ Not remote; requires presence in San Francisco.
- ✗ High expectations for technical skill and experience.
- ✗ May involve long hours in a fast-paced environment.
Best For: It's suitable for both experienced engineers and new graduates willing to tackle challenging projects in a startup environment.
Watch Out: Expect a demanding workload and the need for quick adaptation to new technologies and methodologies.
You'll be redirected to ycombinator.com
What Customers Say
Feedback from current employees highlights a fast-paced environment with plenty of learning opportunities, but also stresses the high expectations for performance.
Expert Review
In the robotics field, the role of Founding Engineer at Intelligence Factory presents a unique opportunity. You’ll manage the model pipeline, crucial for developing versatile manipulation systems. Access to $750K in cloud credits across Azure, AWS, and GCP is a significant benefit, positioning you well to innovate.
The company seeks candidates with end-to-end model implementation experience, particularly in robotics or imitation learning. New graduates are encouraged to apply, but be prepared for a steep learning curve in a competitive space. The expectation for hands-on technical expertise is high, which may deter applicants without substantial experience.
Located in San Francisco, the role does not offer remote work, so local candidates or those willing to relocate will find this a better fit. The demanding pace and intricate projects may not suit everyone, especially those looking for a more laid-back work environment. If you thrive under pressure and are excited by robotics, this could be your next career move.
In summary, Intelligence Factory provides a solid platform for aspiring engineers but requires dedication and a proactive approach to tackle its challenges. For more details, check out the official listing on their website.
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