Forward Deployed Engineer

retell-ai· Applied AI
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📍 San Francisco Bay AreaFullTime💰 USD 150K–260K

About this role

ABOUT RETELL AI

Retell AI is using first-principles thinking to reimagine the call center with cutting-edge voice AI. Thousands of companies now use Retell's AI voice agents to handle sales, support, and logistics calls that once required large teams of human agents. Backed by Y Combinator, Alt Capital, and other leading investors, we've scaled to $80M in ARR with a team of 50, up from $5M at the start of 2025, and are now valued at over $1.5B.

Our vision for 2026 is to build a modern CX platform where entire contact centers are powered by AI. Instead of basic automation that needs constant human tuning, we're creating intelligent AI “workers” that act as frontline agents, QA analysts, and managers, continuously executing, monitoring, and improving every customer interaction.

We're growing fast and looking for ambitious builders who want to tackle hard technical problems, move quickly, and have a real impact on one of the fastest-growing voice AI companies in the world.

Let's build the future together.

Recent recognition:

 

ABOUT THE ROLE

We're looking for new grad builders who want to get their hands dirty and work directly with customers.

As a Forward Deployed Engineer, you'll work closely with enterprise clients to build and launch voice AI solutions. You'll spend roughly 50% of your time building and 50% working directly with customers, helping understand their needs, solve problems, and get projects into production.

This is a great fit for someone who has completed technical internships, has a strong interest in startups, and genuinely enjoys working with people and customers.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • Build and launch voice AI solutions for enterprise customers.

  • Write production code in Python, JavaScript, or similar languages.

  • Build integrations with CRMs, ERPs, scheduling tools, and other systems.

  • Work directly with customers to understand their needs and solve technical problems.

  • Partner with sales on demos, prototypes, and technical discussions.

  • Learn Retell's platform and become an expert in building voice AI agents.

  • Turn customer feedback into product and engineering improvements.

YOU MIGHT THRIVE IF

  • You're a recent graduate with a strong technical background.

  • You've completed one or more software engineering, technical, or similar internships.

  • You like building things and figuring things out on your own.

  • You have a strong interest in startups and want to work in a fast-moving environment.

  • You enjoy working directly with customers and explaining technical concepts.

  • You're comfortable with ambiguity and taking ownership.

  • You can code in Python, JavaScript, or a similar language.

  • You're excited about AI and want to learn how to build real-world AI systems.

JOB DETAILS

  • Cash: $150k - $260k

  • Equity: Equity Provided

  • Location: Redwood City, CA, US (Relocation Provided)

  • US Visas: Retell AI is open to sponsoring work authorization for qualified candidates, including H1B/H-1B, TN, L-1, E-3, F-1 (OPT/CPT), and O-1 visas.

OTHER BENEFITS

  • 100% coverage for medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • $70/day DoorDash credit for unlimited breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks

  • $200/month wellness reimbursement

  • $300/month commuter reimbursement

  • $75/month phone bill reimbursement

  • $50/month internet reimbursement

COMPENSATION PHILOSOPHY

  • Best Offer Upfront: Choose from three cash-equity balance options; no negotiation needed.

  • Top 1% Talent: Above-market pay to attract exceptional builders.

  • High Ownership: Small teams, significant responsibility, and meaningful equity.

  • Performance-Based: Offers tied to interview performance, not experience or past salaries.

INTERVIEW PROCESS

  • Online Assessment

  • Recruiter Intro Call (15 min): Learn about us and share your background.

  • Technical Phone Interview (45min): Live practical coding

  • Technical Phone Interview (45 min): Customer facing systems design

  • Onsite/Virtual Interviews (2–3 hrs): Three rounds focused on communication, architecture, and problem-solving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Forward Deployed Engineer role at retell-ai?
The listed salary for this Forward Deployed Engineer position at retell-ai is USD 150K–260K. This is an FullTime role.
Where is the Forward Deployed Engineer position at retell-ai located?
This Forward Deployed Engineer role at retell-ai is based in San Francisco Bay Area. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Forward Deployed Engineer role at retell-ai full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a FullTime position. It is posted as a Forward Deployed Engineer role in the Applied AI department at retell-ai.
Which team or department does the Forward Deployed Engineer at retell-ai belong to?
This Forward Deployed Engineer position is part of the Applied AI department at retell-ai. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Forward Deployed Engineer position at retell-ai?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to retell-ai's official application portal hosted on ashby where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Forward Deployed Engineer job at retell-ai posted?
This Forward Deployed Engineer position at retell-ai was posted on Aug 27, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Forward Deployed Engineer
retell-ai · 💰 USD 150K–260K
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