Embedded Lead Engineer

What is an Embedded Lead Engineer?

An embedded lead engineer is a senior technical partner who joins your team and owns your entire technical stack — architecture, strategy, and daily code. Unlike advisors who deliver Notion docs and Slack opinions, I write production code every day. This model is ideal for startups, small businesses, and bootstrapped teams that need CTO-level judgment without the full-time salary, equity package, and 6-month hiring process. As your embedded lead engineer, I can

• Own and execute your technology strategy
• Architect and build your products from the ground up
• Manage your technology talent and review contractor output
• Evaluate and improve your technology stack
• Identify and close security gaps
• Provide the technical credibility investors demand
• Ensure that your technology initiatives are aligned with your business goals
• Fill the technical leadership gap in your team
• Interview and hire engineers who fit your company's needs

Let's talk about your team

When is an Embedded Lead Engineer the right choice?

• You need senior technical leadership but aren't ready for a full-time CTO.
• You're a non-technical founder who needs a trusted technical partner.
• You're cycling through freelancers and need someone who stays.
• You need someone who thinks at the executive level but ships code daily.
• You're building ambitious products but lack in-house senior engineering expertise.

When is an Embedded Lead Engineer the wrong choice?

• You need a full-time executive to manage a large engineering team.
• You're looking for a permanent solution beyond 6 months.
• You're in a heavily regulated industry that demands full-time executive attention.

How much will this cost?

One offer, one price: $15,000/month. Engagements run a minimum of 3 months and a maximum of 6 months. I only take on 3 clients at a time — when the roster is full, it's full. No hourly billing, no tiered packages, no upsells.

About me (Seth Black)

I'm a strategic leader proficient in both machine learning and software engineering. My experience ranges from two-person projects to leading an engineering department of over 70 people. My expertise lies in implementing innovative machine learning techniques and seamlessly operationalizing pipelines from data collection to production. In essence, my programming chops are sharp, I understand the business side of things, and I have a bunch of operational experience.

Core expertise

• AI Strategy Implementation: I specialize in crafting and executing AI strategies that are tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that your AI initiatives are aligned with your business objectives.
• Machine Learning & Data Science: With extensive experience in ML and data science, I can guide your team in developing cutting-edge AI models and algorithms, turning data into actionable insights.
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership: Proven ability in managing diverse, multidisciplinary teams, fostering collaboration, and driving projects to successful completion.

Specific skills

Why work with me?

• Deep Industry Experience: I have been an integral part of the tech world, from global giants like AT&T to dynamic two-person startups. My journey has been marked by a strong focus on Machine Learning (ML) for Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Large Language Models (LLM), with additional expertise in machine vision and a hint of human motion analysis.
• Proven Leadership: As a former Engineering Director and Manager in various high-profile tech companies, I have consistently delivered excellence in project management, team leadership, and strategic planning. My expertise lies in aligning AI strategies with business goals, ensuring that technology drives value and innovation.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: As the founder of Fiscus Technology, co-founder of a few tech startups, and an early employee of several more startups, I bring an entrepreneurial mindset combined with a deep understanding of AI's potential in various industries.

What would make us a bad fit?

I'm a generally amicable person, but I'm not the right fit for every company. Here are a few reasons why we might not be a good fit:

• You're looking for a full-time commitment.
• You're in need of someone to "just build an app".
• You're in an industry that I have no experience in.
• Your product or service can be generally considered unethical.

Interested? Let's talk.

Use the following button to grab some time on my calendar and we'll see if the fit is right.

Let's talk about your team