Forward Deployed AI Engineer

About WindwardWindward is a maritime AI leader helping governments and enterprises navigate risk, compliance, and geopolitical uncertainty across global trade. Our platform transforms massive unstructured datasets into real-time, actionable insights. From intercepting dark fleet tankers to predicting supply chain disruptions, we enable confident, data-driven decisions.The RoleWe are looking for a Forward Deployed AI Engineer (FDE) to lead hands-on deployments of our platform in complex, high-impact environments. Our customers include governments, defense organizations, maritime companies, traders and global logistics leaders.You will operate at the intersection of software engineering, customer success, and operational delivery. This is a hands-on engineering role. You will write production-grade code, build APIs, develop integrations, and deliver custom features that solve real problems. You’ll own execution end to end, from scoping to merging to master and will have opportunities to contribute learning and workflows from customers to our product suite.This is not a sales engineering role. It is for builders who want to work directly with users and move fast. You’ll be in the room with end-users, writing code, and delivering value in days or weeks – not quarters.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the technical deployment of Windward’s platform for strategic customersWrite clean, scalable production code to build integrations, APIs, scripts, and microservicesDevelop tools that transform unstructured data (like AIS, port calls, or vessel documents) into insightsWork with Product and Engineering to shape our roadmap based on what matters in the fieldRapidly prototype and iterate on new features and use casesEngage directly with technical users and analysts to solve operational challengesOperate independently within customer environments, when requiredRequired Skills and ExperienceAt least 3 years of experience as a software engineer or devops engineer with concrete development experienceStrong coding skills with at least one of the following: python, JavaScript, TypeScript, Node.js, ReactExperience working with data pipelines, APIs, and cloud infrastructure (especially AWS and Docker)Comfortable working in high-pressure or sensitive environmentsStrong interpersonal skills and confidence working directly with both technical and operational teamsAble to ship fast, iterate quickly, and deliver measurable resultsFamiliarity with domain-specific data (geospatial, maritime, trade, logistics) is a plusPreferred QualificationsExperience as a Forward Deployed Engineer or similar role at Palantir or another vertical AI companyPast experience building solutions with LLMs and a deep understanding of the overall Gen AI landscapeExperience with modern development process using Cursor, Windsurf, copilot and similar toolsBackground working with government, intelligence, defense, logistics, or maritime sectorsExperience deploying software in secure or mission-critical environmentsTrack record of owning customer outcomes end-to-endWhy WindwardHigh-impact work with global relevanceTight-knit, elite team with minimal bureaucracyOwnership from day one, autonomy to move fastWork on some of the world’s most interesting problems at the edge of technology and geopoliticsHybrid work from our London office (Blackfriars), 3 days a week in-officeTravel across Europe expected, approximately 25 – 30%, at times on short notice