Research Engineer (Forward Deployed)

Job Description

We’re looking for curious, versatile engineers who thrive in environments where your work actually matters. Vertex Search are proud to partner with a growing series A start-up in Austin who are using modern software and AI to overhaul and reinvent a centuries-old, waste-intensive industry

You’ll work closely with clients, often on-site, to design and build data-driven solutions with Python and modern front-end tools (React, Vue, etc.). Your work won’t sit in a backlog; you’ll be launching new features and products into production on a daily basis with minimal red tape and maximum impact.

With the freedom to shape your own career, you can explore new technologies, take full ownership of projects, and grow in multiple directions

What You’ll Do

• Build and deliver bespoke software and data tools directly for clients
• Work across the stack (Python back-end, modern front-end frameworks)
• Operate in a low-bureaucracy, high-trust environment
• Take ownership of projects from scoping to deployment
• Represent the team on-site with clients – you’re not just coding in a silo

The type of person you are:

• You love travel: you understand the value of working directly with the client to maximize their ROE. You want to sit with them and solve their most complex problems. You're happy to travel around TX and across the US up to 50% of the time.
• Problem-solver at heart: you enjoy understanding complex, messy real-world systems and making them elegant and efficient with code
• Comfortable with autonomy: you’re happy taking a project from idea to delivery, often solo at client sites
• Adaptable & hands-on: switching between Python, frontend work, and conversations with stakeholders feels natural
• Communicative & client-facing: you can explain technical ideas clearly to non-technical people
• Curious about impact: you want your work to transform an industry, not just add another feature to a huge product

Skills you’ll need:

• 2–5 years of experience in software engineering (or equivalent)
• A degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, Maths, or similar
• Strong Python skills plus some front-end exposure
• The willingness to travel up to 50% of the time to client sites in TX and around the US

Why You’ll Love It

• Great compensation, including a strong base salary, equity, 401k, healthcare and PTO.
• Real ownership of high-impact projects
• Variety: every client and project is different
• Direct exposure to decision-makers and end-users
• A collaborative, supportive team that wants to see you thrive and grow!