Forward Deployed Engineer, Gov

OpenaiOpenai·Remote(Washington, DC)
Software Development
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WFA Digital Insight

As demand for AI specialists in government sectors grows, roles like Forward Deployed Engineers are becoming increasingly critical. With the global AI market expected to reach

90 billion by 2025, professionals with expertise in AI deployment and management are in high demand. Openai, a pioneer in AI research and deployment, is seeking a skilled engineer to leverage frontier AI in transforming government missions. What sets this role apart is the opportunity to work directly with defense, intelligence, and federal stakeholders, guiding the adoption of AI tools and ensuring successful deployments. Before applying, candidates should be aware of the required technical skills, including experience with cloud deployment models and familiarity with LLMs or generative models.

Job Description

About the Role

The Forward Deployed Engineer, Gov role at Openai is a dynamic and challenging position that requires leading complex deployments of frontier AI models in production. As a key member of the OpenAI for Government team, you will embed with strategic government and public sector customers to deliver secure, compliant AI tools and mission-aligned deployments. Your primary focus will be on scoping, sequencing, and building full-stack solutions that create measurable value for these customers.

The OpenAI for Government team is committed to empowering public servants with the latest AI technologies, and as a Forward Deployed Engineer, you will play a crucial role in achieving this mission. You will work directly with defense, intelligence, and federal stakeholders to guide the adoption of AI tools, ensure successful deployments, and identify areas for improvement.

What You Will Do

  • Own technical delivery across multiple government deployments, from prototype to stable production
  • Embed with public sector customers to design and build novel applications powered by OpenAI models
  • Deliver observable systems spanning infrastructure through applications to enable successful deployments
  • Prototype and build full-stack systems using Python, JavaScript, or comparable stacks
  • Proactively guide customers on maximizing business and operational value from their applications
  • Forge and manage relationships with customer leadership and stakeholders
  • Scope work, sequence delivery, and remove blockers early to ensure project success
  • Contribute directly to code when necessary to drive clarity and momentum
  • Codify working patterns into tools, playbooks, or building blocks for others to use
  • Share field feedback with Research and Product to influence model and product development
  • Keep teams moving through clarity, judgment, and consistent follow-through

What We Are Looking For

  • 5+ years of engineering or technical deployment experience, ideally in customer-facing or government environments
  • Active TS/SCI clearance or equivalent
  • Experience scoping and delivering complex systems in fast-moving or ambiguous contexts
  • Proficiency in writing and reviewing production-grade code across frontend and backend using Python, JavaScript, or similar stacks
  • Familiarity with cloud deployment models, Kubernetes, Terraform, and related infrastructure
  • Experience building or deploying systems powered by LLMs or generative models
  • Ability to simplify complexity, make sound decisions under pressure, and communicate clearly across technical and non-technical audiences
  • Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to spot risks early and adjust without slowing down
  • Humble, collaborative, and empathetic approach to working with others

Nice to Have

  • Experience working with government or public sector customers
  • Familiarity with AI model behavior and its impact on product experience
  • Knowledge of cloud security and compliance frameworks
  • Experience with agile development methodologies and version control systems

Benefits and Perks

  • Opportunity to work with cutting-edge AI technologies and contribute to their development
  • Collaborative and dynamic work environment with a team of experienced professionals
  • Flexible working hours and remote work options
  • Professional development opportunities, including training and conference attendance
  • Competitive compensation package, including salary and benefits
  • Access to the latest tools and technologies
  • Recognition and reward for outstanding performance

How to Stand Out

  • To stand out, highlight your experience with complex AI deployments and your ability to simplify technical concepts for non-technical audiences.
  • Make sure to include examples of your work with cloud deployment models and LLMs or generative models in your portfolio.
  • Be prepared to discuss your approach to scoping and delivering complex systems in fast-moving or ambiguous contexts during the interview.
  • Show a willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and frameworks, as the AI landscape is constantly evolving.
  • When negotiating salary, consider the value of the opportunity to work with cutting-edge AI technologies and contribute to their development, in addition to the competitive compensation package.

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