Founding Product Lead

Founding Product Lead - ModelVault

About ModelVault:

ModelVault is building the world's first plug-and-play on-premise AI server, empowering organizations to securely and efficiently deploy AI models on their own infrastructure. We are a fully remote, async-friendly team with a deeply product-focused founding culture built on trust and ownership.

Job Description:

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Founding Product Lead to spearhead the development of our v1 hardware + software platform. You will be instrumental in defining the product vision, scope, and roadmap, working closely with engineering to deliver a seamless user experience.

Responsibilities:

• Define and execute the product strategy for ModelVault's on-premise AI server.
• Develop and maintain a detailed product roadmap, prioritizing features and releases.
• Conduct product discovery and market research to validate demand and refine positioning.
• Collaborate closely with engineering to design, develop, and ship local model serving, fine-tuning workflows, and intuitive UI/CLI interfaces.
• Oversee hardware + software integration and build systems to ensure scalability and reliability.
• Represent product thinking in key decisions, ensuring alignment with the overall company strategy.

Qualifications:

• 4-10 years of experience in product management, engineering, or technical founding.
• Fluency in technical product development and a deep understanding of AI/ML concepts.
• Proven ability to build and ship zero-to-one hardware/software products or complex technical stacks.
• Strong bias for action, clarity, and data-driven decision making.
• Exceptional communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.

Benefits:

• Be part of a high-impact, early-stage startup with a mission to democratize AI.
• Shape the future of on-premise AI and contribute to cutting-edge technology.
• Enjoy a fully remote, async-friendly work environment with a strong focus on work-life balance.
• Collaborate with a talented and passionate team of engineers and product experts.

Qualifications

We are seeking a Founding Product Lead with a passion for building cutting-edge hardware and software solutions.

Minimum Requirements:

• 4-10 years of experience in product management, engineering, or a technical founding role.
• Proven track record in developing and launching zero-to-one hardware/software products or deeply technical stacks.
• Deep understanding of the technical aspects of product development, including hardware and software integration.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a bias for action and a focus on clarity.
• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with local model serving, fine-tuning workflows, and UI/CLI interfaces.
• Experience in the AI/ML space is a plus.
• Passion for building a high-impact product in a fast-paced, remote environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Product Vision & Strategy: Define and articulate the product vision, scope, and roadmap for ModelVault's on-premise AI server, ensuring alignment with company goals and market needs.
• Technical Execution: Lead the development of the v1 hardware and software platform, collaborating closely with engineering to deliver local model serving, fine-tuning workflows, and intuitive UI/CLI interfaces.
• Market Validation & Positioning: Conduct product discovery, validate market demand, and refine product positioning to ensure a strong competitive advantage.
• System Integration & Scalability: Oversee the integration of hardware and software components, establishing robust systems and processes to support future growth and scalability.
• Decision Making & Communication: Represent product thinking in key strategic decisions, effectively communicating product vision and roadmap to stakeholders across the organization.

ModelVault: Founding Product Lead Selection Process

Phase 1: Application Review (1 week)

• AI-powered resume screening for technical skills and experience alignment.
• Manual review by the hiring manager for cultural fit and leadership potential.

Phase 2: Initial Screening (1 week)

• 30-minute phone call with the hiring manager to assess communication skills, product vision, and motivation.

Phase 3: Technical Assessment (1 week)

• A take-home project simulating a real-world product challenge related to ModelVault's on-premise AI server.

Phase 4: Final Interviews (2 weeks)

• Two 1-hour interviews with key stakeholders:
  • Product & Engineering Deep Dive: Exploring technical expertise, product strategy, and collaborative approach.
  • Culture & Leadership Fit: Assessing alignment with ModelVault's values, remote work style, and leadership expectations.

Phase 5: Decision & Offer (1 week)

• Final candidate selection based on holistic evaluation of skills, experience, cultural fit, and project performance.
• Offer extended with competitive compensation package.

About ModelVault

ModelVault is revolutionizing AI accessibility by building the world's first plug-and-play on-premise AI server. We empower organizations to harness the power of artificial intelligence without the complexities and risks of cloud-based solutions.

Our fully remote, async-friendly team fosters a deeply product-focused culture built on trust and ownership. We believe in empowering individuals to take initiative and drive impactful results. At ModelVault, we're not just building technology; we're building a future where AI is accessible to everyone.