Applied AI Engineer (Forward Deployed AI Engineering)
Manchester (Hybrid) | £45,000 – £65,000 + Equity + Benefits
Gravitas is partnering with a fast-growing AI / ML consultancy to support the expansion of their Applied AI engineering team in Manchester. This organisation specialises in delivering AI and ML solutions, helping clients design, build, and deploy production-grade AI systems across a wide range of industries, including enterprise, public sector, and high-growth startups.
This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer looking to work on real-world AI applications, collaborating closely with clients to turn ideas into scalable, secure systems.
The Role
As an Applied AI Engineer, you will work in a forward-deployed capacity, partnering directly with clients to design and deliver AI solutions. You will be involved throughout the full project lifecycle, from early-stage discovery through to production deployment.
Key responsibilities include:
- Working with clients to understand requirements, shape solutions, and build strong relationships
- Designing, building, and deploying production-grade AI systems
- Developing applications using modern AI techniques such as LLMs, RAG pipelines, and AI agents
- Writing clean, maintainable Python code with strong engineering standards
- Deploying and managing solutions in cloud environments (AWS, GCP, Azure)
- Participating in agile delivery processes including sprint planning, retrospectives, and code reviews
- Supporting client workshops, demos, and training sessions
- Contributing to internal R&D and knowledge sharing
About You
- Strong experience with Python and software engineering best practices
- Exposure to machine learning or generative AI (e.g. LLMs, embeddings, RAG, model deployment)
- Experience building or deploying production-grade applications
- Familiarity with cloud platforms and DevOps approaches
- Comfortable working with tools such as Git, Docker, and Linux
- Passion for AI, open-source technologies, and continuous learning
A background in computer science, mathematics, or a related field is beneficial, but candidates from software engineering, data, or DevOps backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Culture
This organisation values:
- A strong passion for applied AI, MLOps, and open-source technology
- A hands-on, experimental approach to solving problems
- Collaboration across teams, clients, and the wider community
- Delivering AI solutions that create a positive, real-world impact
Benefits
- 25 days holiday (increasing to 30 with service)
- Enhanced family leave
- Healthcare cash plan
- £500 annual personal development budget
- Equity options
- Hybrid working (3 days per week in Manchester office)
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Paid volunteering time
- Regular company socials and events
