Software Engineer / Engineering Manager

Chalk is building the data platform that powers the future of machine learning applications. We tear down complexity, latency, and scale barriers that have traditionally constrained ML capabilities. Our platform combines Rust-speed performance with elegant tools that developers love to use. Leading companies depend on Chalk for everything from stopping fraudulent credit card swipes, verifying identities, and maximizing clean energy capture. We've recently raised a $50 million Series A, led by Felicis.

About the role

You’ll be a Software Engineer, write some code and manage a team. Working directly with our founders, you'll lead a team of exceptional engineers building our platform for real-time inference at scale. This role is a unique opportunity to shape technical architecture and engineering culture at a fast-growing, early-stage company. You'll collaborate with brilliant folks, including Putnam and Advent of Code winners, former Jane Street quants, and Rust compiler contributors — all dedicated to bending the curve of what's possible in ML inference.

We work in-person Monday through Friday in our SF and NY offices. We don’t currently offer remote or hybrid positions.

What you will do

Lead a team of engineers building Chalk's data platform

Partner with the founding team to define and execute our technical roadmap

Lead with a player-coach mindset — jumping into the code whenever needed

Establish engineering processes that enable high velocity without sacrificing quality

Work directly with customers to understand requirements and ensure Chalk's platform solves real-world ML challenges

Shape Chalk's engineering culture as we grow — you'll help us nurture top talent

What we're looking for

5+ years of engineering experience with 2+ years of technical leadership

Previous experience at an early-stage startup

Experience building production ML systems or data infrastructure

Strong programming skills and systems thinking — you understand how things work under the hood

Ability to lead technical teams while still enjoying hands-on work

Strong communicator who can bridge technical and business contexts

Proven track record of delivering complex projects on time

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent

Experience with Rust or distributed systems

Experience with query planners or compilers

Experience implementing data infrastructure or PaaS-like software

Experience scaling engineering teams in high-growth environments

Chalk offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings, 15 company holidays each year, 15 days of personal time off each year, Flex Commuter Benefits, daily lunch and dinner, and a fully-stocked office with drinks and snacks.

Compensation

Chalk offers early team members a generous salary + equity package based on experience and competitive benefits.

Inclusivity

Chalk is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and inclusion and provide reasonable accommodations to anyone in need of individualized support.

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