Bild AI, a Y Combinator W25 startup focused on AI-powered construction blueprint analysis, is seeking a founding engineer to join their two-person team in San Francisco. The role offers $100K-$180K salary plus 0.5%-2% equity, targeting the complex technical challenge of automating blueprint reading, cost estimation, and permit applications in construction.
What you should know: Bild AI applies computer vision and large language models to solve construction industry inefficiencies around blueprint interpretation and project planning.
- The company was founded in 2024 by Roop Pal and Puneet Sukhija, raising funding from top venture capital firms before demo day.
- They use a “model-garden approach” to blueprint understanding, meaning multiple AI models work together to analyze different aspects of construction documents.
- The startup has been featured on Business Insider and maintains a customer-obsessed product development approach.
The role specifics: The founding engineer position focuses on building AI intelligence rather than application development, requiring hands-on machine learning expertise.
- Responsibilities include applying cutting-edge computer vision and large language model technologies, shipping prototypes quickly, and iterating based on user feedback.
- Required skills include Python programming, machine learning, deep learning, and computer vision experience.
- The company welcomes new graduates and emphasizes a “0-to-1 builder” mentality with production AI experience.
What they’re looking for: Beyond technical skills, Bild AI prioritizes cultural fit and impact-driven motivation.
- “Growth mindset, slope > y-intercept” indicates they value learning trajectory over current skill level.
- The founders want someone who can “communicate with empathy and honesty” and doesn’t mind “schlep” work—the unglamorous but necessary tasks that come with startup life.
- Bonus points for founder or startup experience, construction background, or impact-driven motivation.
Key logistics: The position requires full-time, in-office presence in San Francisco with US citizenship or visa sponsorship.
- Candidates must message with “why we’re a fit” and their favorite fruit, with co-founder Roop noting his preference for Sitaphal.
- The company emphasizes keeping applications short and direct.
Founding Engineer (Applied AI) at Bild AI