Staff Presales Engineer (R3205)

The Staff Presales Engineer at Shield AI plays a vital role in ensuring customer satisfaction before and during the software product lifecycle. Responsibilities include creating White Papers and Proposals, delivering tailored technical briefings, supporting demo executions, and troubleshooting technical issues to improve our offerings. With a focus on customer collaboration, you’ll also work closely with the engineering team to incorporate feedback into our solutions, making this position integral to the success of our Hivemind enterprise software.

To thrive in the Staff Presales Engineer position at Shield AI, candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, alongside 5+ years of industry experience, particularly with a strong technical background in software engineering. Proficiency in modern C++, Python coding, and Linux operating systems is key, as well as excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills, all essential for interacting with customers effectively during the presales process.

Yes, while there’s a strong foundation of required skills, Shield AI prefers candidates with at least 3 years of experience in a presales or solutions engineering role, ideally someone who has worked in a startup environment. Experience in the defense aviation, autonomy, or robotics industries will significantly enhance your profile, making you a more attractive candidate for the team.

The compensation for the Staff Presales Engineer at Shield AI is competitive, ranging from $150,697.60 to $226,046.40 annually, influenced by various factors like skill set, level of expertise, and location. Along with a comprehensive benefits package including bonuses and equity, this role offers a fulfilling career opportunity.

Shield AI fosters an environment that encourages continuous learning and development for Staff Presales Engineers. You’ll have opportunities to engage in technical training, develop documentation and training materials, participate in demos, and leverage feedback to refine our software products. This commitment to professional growth ensures that you will not only advance your career but also contribute meaningfully to our mission.

To effectively understand customer requirements, I initiate discussions by asking open-ended questions that address their needs, pain points, and desired outcomes with our products. By actively listening and taking notes, I ensure to clarify and confirm key details during the conversation, which also helps build rapport and trust throughout the presales process.

During a presales meeting, a potential client encountered a technical obstacle while running a demo. I quickly assessed the situation by asking them about their setup and identified a compatibility issue with their operating system. I guided them through alternative configurations seamlessly, which resolved the problem and demonstrated our product's adaptability, ultimately strengthening their confidence in Shield AI.

In my previous roles, I have developed comprehensive technical documentation and training materials tailored to the user experience. I focus on clarity and usability, employing diagrams and examples where necessary. By making the documentation accessible, it not only assists in the integration process but also enhances the customer’s understanding of our solutions, reflecting well on the company.

I regularly attend industry conferences, participate in online forums, and engage with professional networks on platforms like LinkedIn. I also subscribe to industry-related newsletters and follow thought leaders to stay abreast of emerging technologies and trends, which in turn informs my strategies in the presales engineering role at Shield AI.

To ensure successful product demonstrations, I customize them based on the customer’s specific needs and context. Thorough preparation and practice are key; I rehearse various scenarios to anticipate questions. I also engage the audience throughout the demo by encouraging interaction, which fosters a connection with our technology and highlights our solutions’ real-world impacts.

Balancing technical responsibilities and customer-facing activities requires efficient time management and prioritization. I use project management tools to organize tasks and schedule regular check-ins with clients for ongoing support. By aligning my technical work to coincide with customer engagements, I ensure that I’m adequately prepared to address any challenges that may arise during discussions.

I implement structured methods such as feedback surveys following demos and meetings. Additionally, I engage in open dialogues during calls or on-site visits, encouraging clients to share their experiences and suggestions. By fostering a comfortable environment, I can gather robust insights that help refine our solutions and the presales process at Shield AI.

With considerable experience in coding, particularly in C++ and Python, I frequently troubleshoot technical issues with my projects. I approach challenges methodically, debugging code through careful testing and analysis. This proficiency not only helps me offer immediate assistance during presales activities but also builds credibility with potential customers.

Collaboration with an engineering team involves regular communication and shared objectives. At my previous position, I facilitated feedback sessions with engineers where we outlined customer challenges, which directly influenced product development. This teamwork ensured that our solutions met market needs and enhanced overall customer satisfaction.

My passion for technology and its potential to drive meaningful change motivates me to work in presales engineering, especially within the defense technology sector. The opportunity to contribute to projects that enhance safety and autonomy is extremely fulfilling. I find immense satisfaction in helping customers understand and implement innovative solutions that truly protect lives.