Senior Software Engineer / Machine Learning Engineer

About Katapult

Katapult is a nearshore software development agency that combines the best talent in LATAM, with world-class execution and leadership experience, with an AI-first approach to product engineering. Katapult works with PMF+ startups and businesses in the United States with a team-augmentation model. That means we either become or augment their current product engineering team.

About the Role

We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer or Machine Learning Engineer with a strong background in Python and backend engineering. If you are passionate about artificial intelligence, thrive on solving complex technical challenges, and are enthusiastic about large language models (LLMs), this opportunity is for you. You will contribute to building state-of-the-art AI-powered backend systems, collaborating with U.S.-based startups in a fast-paced, results-driven environment.

Responsibilities:

• Stay up to date with advancements in AI, LLMs, and backend engineering. Demonstrate enthusiasm for learning and applying cutting-edge AI technologies.

• Design, build, and maintain robust backend systems and AI-driven solutions using Python, with a strong passion for artificial intelligence and large language models (LLMs).

• Develop, integrate, and optimize machine learning models, focusing on LLMs and innovative AI applications.

• Collaborate closely with product, design, and engineering teams to deliver impactful, scalable tech solutions, utilizing strong communication skills in English.

• Write clean, maintainable, and testable code, promoting code quality through best practices and code reviews.

• Participate in system architecture discussions and actively contribute to technical decision-making in AI-first projects.

Requirements:

• 5+ years of experience in backend software engineering, preferably with Python.

• Proven experience building and deploying machine learning models in production environments.

• Demonstrated expertise and enthusiasm for LLMs, AI frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch), and RESTful APIs.

• Strong desire to keep learning and deepening your knowledge about LLMs and artificial intelligence.

• Deep understanding of backend systems, cloud services (AWS, GCP, Azure), and scalable architectures.

• Solid experience in agile, remote engineering teams.

• Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a proactive, AI-first mindset.

• Advanced written and spoken English skills for effective collaboration with international teams.

Nice to Have:

• Experience with MLOps, model optimization, and CI/CD for AI models.

• Familiarity with data engineering, pipelines, and analytics tools.

• Previous experience in startups or high-growth environments.

What we offer:

We believe in empowering our team with flexibility, competitive benefits, and a supportive work environment. Here’s what we offer:

Work-Life Balance

• Work from Anywhere in Latin America: Enjoy the freedom to work remotely from any country in Latin America.

• 15 Days of PTO per Year: Take time to recharge with paid time off, accrued monthly (1.25 days/month).

• Country-Specific Federal Holidays: Celebrate your local holidays without using PTO.

• 8 Non-Cumulative Days Off per Year: Additional days off for personal needs or unexpected events.

Financial Benefits

• Monthly Payment in USD: Get paid in US dollars, no matter where you are.

• Contractor Agreement with No End Date: Enjoy the stability of a long-term contract.

Work Setup & Wellness

• BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Use your own equipment and receive $50/month as a rental stipend.

• Health Insurance Stipend: Get $75/month to support your health and wellness.