Founding Software Engineer

Lance; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Lance, based in San Francisco, is looking for a Founding Engineer to lead the development of their cutting-edge software solutions. In this full-time on-site role, you will collaborate with the team to architect scalable infrastructure and optimize the performance of AI agents. Ideal candidates will have strong software development skills, familiarity with programming languages like Python and JavaScript, and a degree in Computer Science or a related field. Total compensation ranges from $160,000 to $300,000 including cash, equity, and bonus.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in programming languages like Python or JavaScript.
• Experience in machine learning or AI development.
• Strong debugging and optimization skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of software solutions.
• Collaborate with the core team to build scalable infrastructure.
• Drive innovative features for autonomous AI agents.

Skills

Software development

Programming languages (Python, JavaScript)

Machine learning

AI development

Cloud infrastructure

Scaling systems

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Engineering

Job description

Company Description

Lance (YC W26) develops autonomous AI agents that handle calls, close sales, and manage operations, enabling your team to focus on providing excellent guest experiences. Trusted by leading hotel groups across the U.S., Lance supports 50+ hotels with brands like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt. Using advanced Computer Use Agent technology, Lance agents integrate seamlessly with existing hotel software to make real-time decisions and efficiently manage complex tasks.

Role Description

This is a full-time on-site role for a Founding Engineer based in San Francisco, CA. The Founding Engineer will be responsible for leading the design, development, and deployment of cutting‑edge software solutions. Key responsibilities include collaborating with the core team to architect and build scalable infrastructure, optimizing system performance, and driving innovative features for autonomous AI agents. As an integral team member, the Founding Engineer will impact product direction, tackle complex technical challenges, and shape the future of the company.

Qualifications

• Work 996 In-Person San Francisco
• Proficiency in software development, programming languages (e.g., Python, JavaScript, or similar), and architectural design
• Experience with machine learning, AI development, or related technologies
• Ability to design and build scalable systems, including knowledge of cloud infrastructure and deployment pipelines
• Strong problem‑solving skills, debugging, and optimizing performance of applications
• Excellent team collaboration, communication skills, and ownership mentality
• Interest in working in a startup environment with a focus on innovation and growth
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Engineering, or relevant field
• Previous experience in the hospitality or travel technology sector is a plus

Total Compensation

$160,000-$300,000 Cash + Equity + Bonus