AI Systems & Automation Specialist

Smartish; Austin (TX); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Smartish is looking for a hands-on AI Systems & Automation Specialist in Austin, TX to rapidly prototype and implement AI tools and automation systems. You will be responsible for analyzing workflows and collaborating with teams to identify opportunities for automation and improvement.

This is a hybrid role that combines operations, AI, and project management, perfect for someone excited about using AI to solve real operational challenges. Strong problem-solving and organizational skills are essential.

Qualifications

• 2–4 years experience in systems, operations, or automation roles.
• Strong curiosity around AI and automation tools.
• Comfortable learning new tools and systems quickly.

Responsibilities

• Rapidly prototype internal AI tools and workflows.
• Analyze current workflows and identify inefficiencies.
• Provide light internal IT support for employees.

Skills

AI tools

Automation

Problem-solving

Systems thinking

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Tools

SQL

PHP

Laravel

Job description

Smartish is looking for a hands‑on AI Systems & Automation Specialist to help build the next generation of operational systems inside our business.

You will rapidly prototype internal AI tools, workflows, and automations using modern AI platforms, APIs, and AI‑assisted coding tools, then help turn the best ideas into reliable systems used across the company.

This is not just a "prompt engineer" role. We are looking for someone who also has strong foundational systems and IT thinking. You should understand how business systems, integrations, data flows, operational processes, and technical infrastructure fit together in the real world.

This role sits at the intersection of operations, AI, systems, and execution. You will work across Amazon, Shopify, warehouse systems, marketing workflows, reporting, and internal tools to identify opportunities where AI can eliminate manual work, improve decision‑making, and increase team output.

We are looking for someone who learns fast, builds quickly, and is excited about using AI to solve real operational problems.

This is a great opportunity to make an immediate impact at a profitable, fast‑moving e‑commerce company that has been growing for 17 years.

Location: Austin, TX (Hybrid - HQ + Warehouse)

Type: Full‑Time

Company: Smartish

Reports to: Head of Operations

Direct reports: In‑house PHP Developer

• Business Process Analysis & Optimization
• AI Systems & Workflow Automation
• System Requirements & Project Scoping
• Business Systems & Infrastructure Oversight
• Support for IT
• LMA

What the actual work looks like:

In your first 30 days, you might:

• Build an internal AI tool to automate repetitive reporting
• Use AI‑assisted coding tools to prototype a workflow improvement
• Connect APIs between systems using low‑code or AI‑supported development
• Help a department quickly create and improve their own AI workflows
• Turn a manual spreadsheet‑driven process into a repeatable automated system
• Work with leadership to identify high‑ROI AI opportunities across the company

Job Accountability Details:

Business Process Analysis & Optimization

• Analyze current workflows across e‑commerce operations, warehouse management, inventory, and marketing data
• Identify inefficiencies, manual work, and opportunities for automation
• Collaborate with internal teams to improve processes through better systems and integrations
• Design solutions that improve operational efficiency, data visibility, and scalability

AI Systems & Workflow Automation

• Rapidly prototype internal AI‑powered tools and workflows
• Use LLMs and AI‑assisted coding tools to accelerate development and problem solving
• Help departments identify and implement practical AI workflows
• Convert successful AI experiments into repeatable operational systems
• Evaluate emerging AI tools and platforms for practical business use
• Create scalable internal AI processes, documentation, and best practices
• Improve company productivity through thoughtful automation and systems design

System Requirements & Project Scoping

• Translate business needs into clear system requirements and technical specifications
• Define scope and priorities for new system improvements and integrations
• Work closely with developers to design practical, scalable solutions
• Evaluate tools, platforms, and integrations that support company growth
• Ensure projects stay aligned with operational needs and business goals

Business Systems & Infrastructure Oversight

• Own the reliability and performance of key business systems and integrations
• Troubleshoot complex issues related to data flow, APIs, and system integrations
• Monitor and improve how systems interact across the business
• Maintain documentation of systems architecture and workflows
• Identify opportunities to simplify, automate, or improve system performance

Support for IT

• Provide light internal IT support for employees
• Set up computers and software for new hires
• Troubleshoot common technical issues and elevate when necessary
• Help maintain simple IT policies, documentation, and best practices
• Assist with vendor coordination when needed

LMA (Lead, Manage, Hold Accountable)

• Lead systems‑related projects across departments including operations, marketing, and warehouse teams
• Manage priorities and project timelines for our small external development team
• Manage remote internal PHP developer to company objectives and embody core values and EOS leadership practices
• Hold internal and external partners accountable for system improvements and deliverables
• Provide clear communication and updates on project progress and system improvements
• Drive accountability around system ownership and documentation

What We’re Looking For:

Required

• 2–4 years experience in systems, operations, automation, technical project work, or similar hands‑on roles
• Strong curiosity around AI tools, automation, and operational systems
• Experience using AI tools and AI‑assisted coding to accelerate output
• Comfortable learning new tools, APIs, and systems quickly
• Strong problem‑solving and systems thinking ability
• Ability to independently figure things out without perfect information
• Comfortable working across technical and non‑technical teams
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Willing to work hybrid in‑person in Austin (Downtown HQ + warehouse)

Bonus Points

• E‑commerce or Amazon marketplace experience
• Experience working with Amazon and Shopify platforms
• Familiarity with WMS, ERP, or CRM systems
• SQL, PHP, Laravel, scripting, or QA experience
• Advanced Excel spreadsheet manipulation
• IT helpdesk or systems administration experience
• Experience working in a small and growing company
• Experience working within EOS (Entrepreneur Operating Systems)

Why This Role Is Unique

• Work on real operational systems that directly impact customers
• Exposure to every part of the business (supply chain, warehouse/inventory, marketing, product, finance)
• Direct influence on how our systems evolve as we scale
• Join a profitable, bootstrapped company that values practical solutions over bureaucracy
• Bonus points if you like tacos, dogs, or cats, or all three.

This role is ideal for someone who:

• Builds side projects for fun
• Experiments with new AI tools constantly
• Likes improving systems and workflows
• Learns quickly without needing formal training
• Wants broad exposure to real business operations
• Prefers building practical solutions over endless planning