Forward Deployed AI Engineering - Future Opportunities
Wonderschool
Software Engineering, Data Science
San Francisco, CA, USA
USD 181k-203k / year + Equity
Posted on Feb 11, 2026
About Wonderschool
Wonderschool’s mission is to ensure every child has access to early childhood education that helps them realize their full potential. We empower small business owners—child care providers—to launch and grow in-home programs through cutting-edge software, personalized coaching, and responsive support. We also partner with governments to modernize public child care infrastructure.
Our team is small, fast-moving, and deeply motivated by the impact we create in families and communities across the country.
About This Future Opportunity
As Wonderschool continues to grow, we’re interested in connecting with Forward Deployed AI Engineers who are excited to work at the intersection of engineering, product, and real-world customer impact. This posting is intended to build relationships with candidates for potential future openings and does not represent an active role at this time.
This role concept is inspired by best-in-class Forward Deployed Software Engineers at companies like Palantir and is designed for builders who love solving real problems in the field—not just from behind a desk.
What These Roles May Involve
Depending on company needs, future Forward Deployed AI Engineer roles may include:
- Working directly with customers and internal teams to uncover high-leverage problems
- Designing, building, and deploying AI-powered tools and product experiences
- Writing production code and shipping frequent improvements across the customer journey
- Automating operational workflows such as onboarding, reporting, proposals, and internal tooling
- Leveraging AI developer tools (e.g., Windsurf, Cursor, LLMs) to increase speed and quality
- Owning full feedback loops: discovery, design, build, deploy, and iteration
- Partnering closely with Sales, Onboarding, Account Management, and Product teams
- Prioritizing work based on measurable business impact (revenue, efficiency, retention, experience)
What We’re Generally Looking For
- Strong builder mindset; experience launching products, tools, or businesses independently
- Comfort working directly with users and translating insights into shipped solutions
- Ability to write production code independently (e.g., Python, JavaScript, or similar languages)
- Experience working with AI / LLMs and modern developer tooling
- Business-minded approach to prioritization and problem-solving
- Comfort operating in ambiguity with high ownership and minimal hand-holding
- Interest in fast-paced, in-person, high-trust environments
Compensation (Future Opportunities – California)
For future Forward Deployed AI Engineer roles based in California, the expected base salary range is approximately $181,000 – $203,000. Actual compensation may vary based on role scope, level, experience, and business needs at the time of hire. These roles may also be eligible for equity and benefits.
Additional Notes
- This is not an active job opening and does not guarantee an interview or offer
- Role scope, level, location expectations, and compensation may evolve based on business needs
- Candidates may be contacted if and when a relevant opening becomes available