Sr. Manager, Software Engineering - Applied AI

At Stacklok, we’re an AI-first company led by Kubernetes co-founder Craig McLuckie, helping enterprise developers connect the data, systems, and services that power their businesses today with the agentic and assistive AI systems they’re building for tomorrow. We believe the shift from applications to agents is the next major evolution in software, and we’re building the foundation that helps teams make that leap with confidence.

Our open source platform, ToolHive, provides developers with a powerful yet simple way to securely connect AI systems to real-world environments, delivering the right context at the right time. It solves tough challenges like security, access control, and observability without adding friction to the developer experience. By using open protocols like MCP (Model Context Protocol) and a highly pluggable architecture, supported by a community first development approach, ToolHive allows enterprises to run AI agents safely behind firewalls, with full control over data flow, context, and decision-making.

Location

This is a hybrid role that requires in-person work three days a week: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. We believe this approach balances flexibility with the value of in-person collaboration and community.

Our current office is located at:

3120 139th Avenue SE, Suite 500
Bellevue, WA 98005

Please note: we are planning to relocate to a more central location in the near future.

The Opportunity

Stacklok is seeking a Senior Software Engineering Manager to lead our Applied AI Engineering team. In this role, you will define strategic direction, mentor top-tier engineers, and drive the development of AI agents that transform conversational interfaces into systems capable of taking real-world action. Your team will deliver secure, enterprise-ready solutions that translate AI capabilities into meaningful business value.

As an engineering leader, you will build and scale Applied AI teams focused on developing products that integrate large language models (LLM’s) with organizational data and tools. These solutions will empower knowledge workers with AI-driven productivity. You will shape hiring strategy, design engineering processes that support rapid innovation and cross-functional collaboration, and help define the technical vision that positions Stacklok at the forefront of enterprise AI.

We are looking for a builder-leader with strong infrastructure sensibilities, deep engineering expertise, and a passion for developer technology. You should be comfortable moving between strategic thinking, hands-on problem-solving, and coaching a growing team.

If you thrive in fast-paced environments, enjoy building high-leverage systems, and view versatility as a strength rather than a stretch, this is your opportunity to lead with impact.

What Success Looks Like: First 6-12 months

• Context Mastered and Team Embedded: You quickly developed a deep understanding of the team’s structure, systems, workflows, and cultural norms. By proactively engaging with team members and exploring internal resources, you built the situational awareness needed to lead with clarity and effectiveness.
• Vertical AI Solutions Shipped: You delivered one or two agentic AI solutions that reduced manual operations by over 40 percent. You guided teams through the uncertainty of new product categories and collaborated closely with strategic design partners to shape, refine, and launch impactful solutions.
  
  
• Data-Driven Execution Systems Established: You put in place clear, sustainable execution rhythms such as backlog planning, milestone tracking, and retrospectives. These systems increased visibility, supported team alignment, and helped maintain momentum. You also used team feedback and data to continuously refine and adapt workflows.
  
  
• High-Performing Team Built and Led: You hired exceptional engineering talent, mentored individuals for growth, and created a culture grounded in ownership, collaboration, and delivery excellence. The team remained healthy, engaged, and aligned with broader product and engineering goals.
  
  
• Cross-Functional Alignment Achieved: You built strong, trust-based relationships across Product, Design, AI Research, and Marketing. These partnerships enabled clear goal setting, consistent communication, and co