AI and Agentic Engineer I

Location: Alameda, CA

Time Type: Full time

Job Description

SUMMARY/JOB PURPOSE

The Engineer I -AI and Agentic supports Exelixis' AI initiatives by prototyping, building, and deploying agent-based applications that accelerate enterprise IT and business workflows. This role turns early ideas into spec-driven, testable, production-ready solutions using modern AI-assisted development tools while adhering to Exelixis' security, compliance, and responsible AI standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Build pilot AI applications and agentic workflows under the direction of senior engineers, translating ideas into working prototypes.
• Prototype rapidly using vibe-coding techniques, then evolve prototypes into maintainable code through clear specifications, structured prompts, tests, modular design, and error handling.
• Develop agents that automate multi-step IT and business tasks by connecting LLMs, prompts, tools, and APIs into practical use cases.
• Use coding agents and modern developer tools (e.g., Claude Code, GitHub Copilot, Codex) to accelerate delivery.
• Execute CI/CD pipeline tasks for automated testing, build validation gates, and artifact versioning.
• Write documentation and runbooks, including architecture notes, setup instructions, operational SOPs, and end-user guidance.
• Participate in prompt/spec reviews, code reviews, and pre-release testing/validation activities.
• Apply secure-by-design and responsible AI principles, including data handling, privacy, and safe prompting practices aligned to Exelixis policy
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• No supervisory responsibilities.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS & ABILITIES

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Software Engineering, or a related field and 3 years of related experience; or
• Master’s degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Software Engineering, or a related field and 1 year or related experience; or
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience

• Up to 2 years of relevant experience in AI application, data science, automation, or related technical work, including hands-on experience building or contributing to LLM-enabled applications, agentic workflows, API integrations,

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Required:

• General exposure to LLMs, prompt engineering, agent frameworks, or AI application development through coursework or projects.
• General understanding of agentic development concepts: tool use, planning/execution loops, guardrails, prompt/version management and context engineering.
• General familiarity with automated testing (unit/integration), linting, and CI pipelines.
• General communication skills, written and verbal to collaborate with cross-functional teammates.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new tools quickly, bias for action, and attention to detail regarding security, privacy, and compliance.
• General familiarity with REST APIs, Git, and software development fundamentals
• Preferred: Exposure to AWS Cloud, AWS Bedrock, Databricks Mosaic AI, or comparable agent frameworks.
• Preferred: Exposure to AI-native engineering with Claude Code, Codex, GitHub Copilot, or equivalent coding agents.

Preferred:

• General to Intermediate proficiency in Python and/or JavaScript/TypeScript
• Familiarity with APIs, Git, and software development basics

Travel Requirements

• No travel is expected of this position.

#LI-EZ1

Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several U.S. geographic markets, and we pay differently based on those defined markets. The base pay range for this position is $129,000 - $182,000 annually. The base pay range may take into account the candidate’s geographic region, which will adjust the pay depending on the specific work location. The base pay offered will take into account the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, experience and internal equity, among other factors.

In addition to the base salary, as part of our Total Rewards program, Exelixis offers comprehensive employee benefits package, including a 401k plan with generous company contributions, group medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts. Employees are also eligible for a discretionary annual bonus program, or if field sales staff, a sales-based incentive plan. Exelixis also offers employees the opportunity to purchase company stock, and receive long-term incentives, 15 accrued vacation days in their first year, 17 paid holidays including a company-wide winter shutdown in December, and up to 10 sick days throughout the calendar year.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the recruiting process, please email us at: ApplicantAccommodations@exelixis.com.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Our office is a modern space that fosters collaboration and creativity. Teams work closely together, sharing ideas and solutions in a supportive atmosphere. We provide all necessary equipment, including dual monitors and ergonomic chairs, to ensure a comfortable workspace.

DISCLAIMER: 
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.