Forward Deployed Engineer (FDE)

Senior Forward Deployed Engineer (FDE)Apex is seeking experienced Senior Forward Deployed Engineers (FDEs) who operate at the intersection of business transformation, artificial intelligence, and enterprise technology. This is not a traditional software engineering role. As a true FDE, you will sit with the business to understand functional requirements and create prototype AI solutions. The ideal candidate is equally comfortable discussing business strategy with executive stakeholders and building AI-powered solutions.Ideally targeting functional business exposure in the following domains:LegalNutritionManufacturingService ManagementForward Deployed Engineers embed directly with business stakeholders to understand operational challenges and strategic objectives. This role requires individuals who thrive in ambiguity and focus on business outcomes. You will lead engagements from problem definition through architecture, development, and deployment, delivering proofs of concept in 90 days or less before handing them to an engineering team to scale. You will work in highly iterative environments, building prototypes and validating them directly with users.Key ResponsibilitiesPartner directly with business leaders, operational stakeholders, and executives to identify opportunities for transformation.Translate complex business problems into actionable technical requirements.Act as a trusted advisor to executive stakeholders and functional leaders.Architect and deliver AI-first solutions, such as LLM-powered applications, AI agents, and RAG solutions, in rapid development cycles.Build proof-of-concepts, prototypes, and production-ready applications.Design and integrate APIs, enterprise systems, and third-party platforms.Required QualificationsExperience:12+ years of combined business, industry, and technology experience.Experience working directly within business operations, not solely as a technology provider.A history of defining transformation initiatives and driving measurable business outcomes.Executive-facing experience with senior business stakeholders.Startup experience or mindset, with comfort in resource-constrained, fast-moving environments.Business Domain Expertise:Functional expertise in at least one of the following domains:LegalNutritionManufacturingService ManagementTechnical Skills:Hands-on experience with AI models such as OpenAI, Claude, or Gemini.Experience designing RAG architectures and AI agents using frameworks like LangChain, CrewAI, or AutoGen.Strong proficiency in Python is required.Proficiency in at least one major cloud platform, with Azure preferred.Knowledge of SQL, NoSQL, data modeling, and ETL/ELT pipeline design.Familiarity with enterprise platforms such as SAP or Salesforce.Desired CharacteristicsA genuine curiosity that drives self-directed learning and experimentation.The ability to make sound decisions with incomplete information and adapt to change.A relentless problem-solving orientation and the ability to go deep on hard problems.The ability to communicate fluently between technical and executive audiences.An ownership mentality, driving initiatives with a high bar for quality.