Lead Network Engineer - Core
Company: xAI
Location: Palo Alto
Posted on: February 18, 2026
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Job Description:
Job Description Job Description About xAI xAI's mission is to
create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and
aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge. Our team is small, highly
motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization
is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive
on curiosity. We operate with a flat organizational structure. All
employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to
the company's mission. Leadership is given to those who show
initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and
strong prioritization skills are important. All employees are
expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able
to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.
About the Role Data Center Fabrics are the foundational building
blocks of the complex architecture that enables Grok to be trained
and serve customer queries as they learn to understand the
universe. To enable us to move faster we are looking for a Core
Network Engineering Team Lead in our Palo Alto Office. You will
develop and execute the team's roadmap in collaboration with
partner teams. You will guide your team and directly contribute to
its network's development, while hiring and developing the world
class talent xAI needs to achieve AGI. Responsibilities Develop and
execute the team's roadmap for data center network fabrics in
collaboration with partner teams. Lead and mentor a team of
engineers, providing technical guidance and feedback to ensure high
performance and growth. Directly contribute to the design,
development, and optimization of network infrastructure to maximize
availability and performance. Write Python scripts to automate
processes, optimize compute resources, and reduce repetitive
engineering tasks. Partner with cross-functional teams to align on
roadmaps and resolve break/fix issues efficiently. Hire and develop
top-tier talent to support xAI's mission of achieving AGI.
Ruthlessly prioritize team efforts to maximize weekly impact for
customers. Required Qualifications 3 years as a technical lead in
AI networking, with at least 8 years of experience in hyperscale
network environments. Proficiency in Python scripting to optimize
compute resources and automate engineering tasks. 3 years of
experience with RoCEv2 and/or InfiniBand technologies. Proven
ability to deliver highly available and performant data center
network fabrics through individual and team contributions.
Demonstrated experience mentoring engineers and providing
constructive feedback. Preferred Qualifications Ability to navigate
ambiguity and drive progress without being hindered by
over-analysis. Strong collaboration skills to align multiple teams
on cohesive roadmaps and solutions. A proactive, hands-on approach
to tackling challenges, with no task considered too small.
Experience in high-stakes environments requiring rapid
prioritization and decision-making. Familiarity with recruiting and
developing world-class engineering talent. Annual Base Salary
$180,000 - $440,000 USD Benefits Base salary is just one part of
our total rewards package at X, which also includes equity,
comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a
401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance,
life insurance, and various other discounts and perks. xAI is an
equal opportunity employer. For details on data processing, view
our Recruitment Privacy Notice.
Keywords: xAI, Sunnyvale , Lead Network Engineer - Core, Engineering , Palo Alto, California
