Chief Technology Officer

Cox Exponential•El Segundo, CA

17h•Hybrid

About The Position

Launchpad Build AI is an AI-first robotics company focused on revolutionizing assembly automation. Their Manufacturing Language Model (MLMTM) enables manufacturers to deploy automation using simple inputs like photos or CAD files, significantly reducing deployment time and cost. This technology is already in use in factories across the US and Europe and is backed by an $11M Series A funding round. The company aims to address labor shortages, rebuild domestic competitiveness, and make automation accessible to more manufacturers. The Chief Technology Officer will be responsible for the company's technology direction, including research, architecture, product development, and managing the technical organization across El Segundo and Edinburgh. The role involves translating an AI-first vision into tangible products and making critical decisions about innovation and development. The core challenge is to fundamentally change the economics of automation through AI, software, and modular hardware, making it a cost-effective solution for a wider range of manufacturing tasks. The CTO will lead the development of the Manufacturing Language Model (MLM), the CAD-to-execution platform (DigiSolvAI), real-time computer vision systems, self-programming robotics, and define the hardware sourcing strategy. Additionally, the CTO will lead and grow the technical team.

Requirements

Real depth across ML / LLMs / RAG, computer vision, robotics and ROS2, embedded and edge compute, CAD, manufacturing, and industrial automation.
A track record of building technology and making a lot of moving parts work together in production.
Demonstrated real outcomes that can be pointed to.
A naturally inquisitive mind, ability to learn fast and on your own.
Ability to dig into problems and think independently.
Startup DNA that prioritizes 'in the market and learning' over 'in the lab and perfect'.

Responsibilities

Own technology across Launchpad Build AI, including research direction, architecture, product development, and the technical organization.
Turn an AI-first thesis into shipping product.
Make critical decisions about where to invent and where not to.
Reinvent the economics of automation through AI, software, and modularized hardware.
Set technical priorities and make make, buy, or partner decisions.
Lead the development of the Manufacturing Language Model (MLM), including its direction, data strategy, and retrieval quality.
Own the CAD to execution platform (DigiSolvAI), closing the gap between design intent and line execution.
Develop robust real-time computer vision systems for inspection, part recognition, and guidance.
Oversee the development of self-programming robotics on the ROS2 stack, down to edge and embedded compute.
Set BOM and sourcing strategy for hardware, distinguishing between commoditized and proprietary components.
Lead and grow the technical organization across the US and UK, including Engineering, Hardware, and Software.
Set the technical bar and recruit high-caliber talent.