Chief Technology Officer - AI & Robotics (Retail)

We're a high-growth, venture-backed startup revolutionizing the in-store grocery experience through cutting-edge AI and robotics. Backed by significant VC funding, we're deploying intelligent, customer-facing AI-powered robots that serve as friendly greeters and personalized guides in grocery stores—welcoming shoppers, answering questions, providing product recommendations, and helping them locate items efficiently to enhance satisfaction and streamline shopping. We already have secured contracts with select grocery chains in Florida, with rapid expansion plans underway. Our innovative approach is transforming retail interactions, making everyday shopping more engaging, helpful, and tech-forward. We're seeking a visionary Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to join our founding leadership team and drive our technical strategy from our base in Miami , Florida . This is a rare opportunity to shape the core technology stack for a robotics-heavy AI platform at an early-stage startup with strong traction and funding. The role is hands‑on and strategic, reporting directly to the CEO, and will involve building and scaling our AI/robotics systems while leading a growing engineering team. Our office space is in the process of being secured shortly, with initial operations flexible (hybrid/remote possible during setup, transitioning to in‑office in Miami). Key Responsibilities Lead the overall technical vision, architecture, and roadmap for our AI-powered robotics platform, including computer vision, natural language processing, robot navigation/mobility, real-time interaction AI, cloud/edge integration, and hardware-software interfaces. Oversee the full development lifecycle: from prototyping and R&D to deployment, scaling, and maintenance of robots in live grocery environments. Build and manage a high-performing engineering team (software, AI/ML, robotics/hardware engineers), hiring top talent and fostering a culture of innovation and rapid iteration. Ensure robust, secure, and reliable systems that comply with retail industry standards, data privacy regulations, and safety requirements for human-robot interaction. Collaborate closely with product, operations, and business teams to align tech with customer needs, grocery partner requirements, and go-to-market strategy. Drive integration with existing grocery store systems (e.g., inventory APIs, POS, customer apps) and explore partnerships with AI/robotics hardware providers. Manage technical due diligence, IP strategy, and scalability as we expand deployments across Florida and beyond. Stay ahead of advancements in AI, robotics, and retail tech to maintain our competitive edge. Qualifications 10+ years of progressive engineering and leadership experience, with at least 5 years in a senior technical role (e.g., VP Engineering, CTO, or equivalent) at a startup or fast-paced tech company. Proven track record leading AI/ML and/or robotics projects—experience with customer-facing or service robots (e.g., humanoid/mobile assistants, computer vision for interaction, NLP for conversation) is highly preferred. Deep expertise in relevant technologies: Python/C++/ROS, deep learning frameworks (TensorFlow/PyTorch), computer vision (OpenCV, object detection/tracking), SLAM/navigation, edge computing, cloud infrastructure (AWS/GCP/Azure), and real-time systems. Experience scaling hardware-software products in production environments, ideally in retail, consumer-facing, or IoT domains. Strong understanding of startup dynamics: rapid prototyping, MVP development, fundraising tech narratives, and resource-constrained execution. Bachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, or related field (PhD a plus). Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills; ability to thrive in ambiguity and build from the ground up. Willingness to be based in/relocate to the Miami area as we establish our headquarters. Compensation & Equity Competitive base salary of $250,000+, commensurate with experience. Significant equity stake in the company (percentage points in the form of stock options/RSUs), reflecting the executive-level impact and early-stage upside. Opportunity for performance bonuses tied to milestones and company growth. If you're passionate about AI robotics, retail innovation, and want to lead tech at a funded startup with real-world deployments and momentum, we'd love to hear from you. #J-18808-Ljbffr