Applied AI Engineer

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