Field Applications Engineer (FAE) – Manufacturing (Machine Vision & AI/ML)

Job description

About Matroid Matroid is a full-service computer vision company that has developed an end-to-end platform allowing enterprise customers to rapidly train and deploy automated visual inspection on imagery including EO, IR, X-Ray, CT, OCT, and others. Founded in 2016 by a Stanford professor, Matroid has a broad and rapidly growing set of customers in manufacturing, industrial IoT, government and security. We are seeking a hands-on, customer-focused Field Applications Engineer (FAE) to support the deployment and optimization of machine vision and AI-driven solutions in manufacturing environments. This role is highly technical and field-based, requiring frequent travel to customer facilities (50%+) to ensure successful implementation, integration, and performance in real-world production settings. You will work directly on factory floors with engineering, operations, and quality teams to solve complex inspection, automation, and process challenges—leveraging computer vision and AI/ML to improve quality, throughput, and efficiency. What you’ll do On-Site Deployment & Support Working directly with the sales and deep-learning teams to most effectively problem solve, support, and expand Matroid by users. Travel to customer manufacturing facilities (50%+ travel required) for system installation, commissioning, and support Deploy and configure vision systems (cameras, optics, lighting, edge devices) in production environments Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, and software issues under real-time production constraints Ensure minimal downtime and rapid resolution of issues Machine Vision & AI/ML Implementation Design and optimize vision solutions for inspection, defect detection, measurement, and guidance Deploy and validate AI/ML models for real-world use (e.g., classification, object detection, segmentation) Collect, label, and manage image datasets to improve model performance Tune models and systems for accuracy, latency, and robustness in variable factory conditions Bridge the gap between data science models and production-ready systems System Integration & Optimization Integrate solutions with PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and existing automation systems Support connectivity with MES, SCADA, and plant network infrastructure Optimize system performance for throughput, yield, and first-pass quality Execute proof-of-concepts (POCs), pilot programs, and full production rollouts Customer Training & Enablement Train operators, engineers, and quality teams on system operation and best practices Develop documentation, SOPs, and troubleshooting guides Support long-term adoption and continuous improvement initiatives Customer Collaboration Act as a trusted technical advisor to manufacturing, quality, and operations teams Translate production and inspection challenges into scalable technical solutions Provide structured feedback to product and engineering teams to improve system performance and usability Success Metrics Successful deployment and uptime of vision/AI systems in production Model performance (accuracy, false positive/negative rates) in real-world conditions Reduction in defects, scrap, or manual inspection Improvements in throughput and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) Customer satisfaction and repeat engagements What you bring to the table Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field 3–8+ years of experience in manufacturing, industrial automation, or field engineering Hands-on experience with machine vision systems (image formation) in industrial environments Strong troubleshooting skills across hardware and software systems Ability to travel frequently (50% or more), including time on factory floors Preferred Experience with: Computer vision frameworks (e.g., OpenCV, deep learning-based tools) AI/ML model deployment in production environments PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens) and industrial automation systems Industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus) Cameras, lenses, lighting, and image acquisition systems Familiarity with: Data annotation tools and dataset management Edge computing or GPU-based inference systems Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies Bonus points if... Strong hands-on expertise in machine vision and AI-driven inspection systems Ability to troubleshoot and optimize systems in high-pressure production environments Systems thinking across hardware, software, and data pipelines Clear communication with operators, engineers, and executives Adaptability in fast-paced, variable manufacturing conditions Located near a major airport for necessary travel What we offer in return Competitive pay and equity The chance to constantly work on stimulating intellectual challenges Gym membership reimbursement Medical, dental, and vision insurance with 100% paid premiums A budget for whatever hardware or software will make you most effective Regular tech talks to discuss the latest advances in CV, DL and software engineering Matroid is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.