Head of Engineering

Head of Engineering

Location: Germany (Hybrid, with preference for Munich)

Company: PlayAI )

Type: Full-Time

About PlayAI

We deliver innovative, authentic and accessible AI-driven solutions for global sports clubs and athletes, to enable them to engage their fans and deliver value to sponsors.

Based in Germany, we are a fast-growing startup seeking a visionary Head of Engineering to lead the development of our innovative platform and culture.

Role Overview

As the Head of Engineering, you will lead the direction, development and implementation of PlayAI's platform, focusing on creating scalable, innovative solutions that enhance interactive experiences. Based in Germany (with a preference for Munich), this hybrid role involves creating and leading a small team of cross-functional engineers and working with global sports organizations to create innovative new ways fans can connect with their sports heroes. You will drive technical excellence, ensuring our solutions are robust, scalable, and aligned with PlayAI's mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy & Development: Lead the design and execution of solutions, aligning with PlayAI's mission to deliver innovative, interactive experiences.
• Team Leadership: Manage, mentor, and grow a team of engineers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence.
• Platform Development: Oversee the development of our platforms, from design to deployment, ensuring performance, scalability, and reliability.
• Client Collaboration: Work with global sports organizations and elite athletes to design solutions that enhance engagement and meet client objectives.
• AI Innovation: Leverage expertise in AI, machine learning, and data science to create adaptive, user-centric platforms, pushing the boundaries of interactive technology.
• Research & Development: Stay at the forefront of AI advancements, incorporating cutting-edge techniques and tools to maintain PlayAI's competitive edge.

Qualifications

Essential Technical Skills

• 7+ years of experience with React and TypeScript for building scalable front-end applications.
• Strong expertise in backend development, with experience in Fastify or similar frameworks.
• Proven experience using FFmpeg in production.
• Knowledge of video streaming protocols, media containers and encoding pipelines.
• Proficiency in PostgreSQL and NoSQL database design.
• Deep knowledge of AWS services (Lambda, S3, DynamoDB, RDS) and Infrastructure as Code (AWS CDK or similar).
• Expertise in designing and implementing RESTful APIs.
• Strong experience with Git version control and collaborative workflows.
• Proficiency with Prisma or other ORMs, state management tools (Zustand, Redux, or similar), and React Query/TanStack Query.
• Knowledge of JWT authentication and security best practices.

Cloud & DevOps

• Advanced proficiency in the AWS ecosystem and serverless architecture patterns.
• Experience with Docker containerization and CI/CD pipelines.
• Expertise in infrastructure monitoring and logging in production.

Additional Valued Skills

• Proficiency in cross-browser testing and responsive design.
• Strong background in machine learning frameworks (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch).

Soft Skills

• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to tackling technical challenges.
• Strong experience with agile methodologies and leading teams in dynamic environments.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts to non-technical stakeholders and clients. Verbal and written communication skills in English; proficiency in German is highly desirable.

Why Join PlayAI?

• Be part of a fast-growing, innovative company at the forefront of AI technology.
• Lead creative initiatives that shape engaging content for global sports organizations and elite athletes.
• Work in a collaborative, inclusive environment with opportunities for professional growth.
• Competitive salary, benefits, and flexible work arrangements (remote or hybrid).

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter to Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

PlayAI is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: ,00€ ,00€ per year

Work Location: Hybrid remote in 80639 München