About Benten

Benten is a startup building a decentralized AI platform that aims to create an accessible, user-friendly, and collaborative ecosystem empowering individuals and communities to leverage AI for personal growth and collective problem-solving.

Learn more at https://benten.ai

Role Summary

We are seeking an experienced Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to lead the technical development and implementation of our decentralized AI ecosystem. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of decentralized systems, blockchain architectures, and AI technologies, along with a commitment to our mission and values. They will work closely with our CEO, CPO, and other key stakeholders to define and execute our technical strategy, ensuring our platform empowers users while promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical AI development.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Strategy and Leadership

Develop and execute a robust technical strategy aligned with Benten's vision and values
Stay current with emerging technologies and trends in decentralized systems and AI
Effectively communicate the technical strategy to stakeholders and team members

Decentralized Systems and Blockchain Architecture

Design and implement a scalable, secure, and transparent decentralized system architecture
Evaluate and select appropriate blockchain technologies or frameworks
Collaborate with the Senior Blockchain Developer on smart contract development and integration

Team Management and Collaboration

Hire, train, and lead a diverse, high-performing technical team committed to our mission
Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning
Work closely with the CPO, Head of Data Science, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless integration of AI capabilities

Product Development and Implementation

Oversee the technical development and implementation of our decentralized AI platform, including the Benten Avatar Framework and RAIN cloud decentralized compute network
Ensure timely delivery of high-quality products and features enabling users to harness AI for personal growth and problem-solving
Collaborate with the Product team to define and prioritize technical requirements and deliverables aligned with our mission

Technical Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

Identify and address complex technical challenges in decentralized systems and AI
Make principled decisions based on technical expertise, stakeholder needs, and responsible innovation
Develop contingency plans and mitigate risks to ensure the platform's stability and security

Team Structure and Growth

The core team will consist of a CEO, CTO, CPO, CFO, Chief Economist, Head of Data Science, Head of Content, Senior Software Engineer, Senior Blockchain Developer, Head of DevOps, and Lead Designer
Plans to scale the team to approximately 25 members by the end of the first year, with additional room for supplemental expertise as needed

Technology Stack

The specific technology stack, including programming languages, frameworks, and tools, will be decided by the CTO in collaboration with the technical team

Product Roadmap and Milestones

Benten Avatar Framework Beta: Fully designed and ready for large-scale internal testing and refinement, with a web version for public beta testing planned within 3 months of securing funding
RAIN Cloud Beta: Powering the Avatar beta and provided as a public API, open for anyone to contribute and earn from their compute resources, based on the existing PETALS research

Fundraising Stage

Benten is currently assembling the core team and securing seed-level funding from hands-on investors

Company Culture and Values

Benten fosters a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and innovation, with a strong commitment to ethical AI development and maximizing stakeholder benefits
The team values transparency, inclusivity, and empowerment through decentralized technologies
We believe in the transformative potential of AI and blockchain to drive positive change and create a more equitable future

Founder Background

Benten was founded by Ben Parisi, an AI systems researcher with a background in software development, digital content creation, and entrepreneurial ventures
Ben's passion for decentralized technologies and their potential for positive change drives Benten's mission and vision

Required Skills and Experience

Proven experience designing and implementing scalable, decentralized architectures
Deep understanding of blockchain technologies and AI
Strong leadership and communication skills to inspire and manage diverse, mission-driven teams
Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities, delivering results while navigating complex considerations
Passion for decentralized technologies' potential for positive change and commitment to Benten's mission and principles
Experience with content creation or community engagement related to technology, AI, blockchain, web3, programming, ethics, or decentralized systems is a plus

Education and Background

Preferred educational background in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
Relevant certifications or professional development in blockchain, AI, distributed systems
Previous experience in mission-driven startups or high-growth companies is a plus

Compensation and Benefits

Salary: $150,000-$180,000 per year
Equity: 1-3% ownership stake in the company, with half granted upfront for advisors who join prior to funding and the remaining half on a 4-year vesting schedule with a 1-year cliff
Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
Retirement plan with employer matching
Flexible work arrangements and time-off policies
Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development

Application Process

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant work samples or portfolio. We will review applications on a rolling basis and reach out to selected candidates for further discussions.

We are concurrently working on the interview process and securing funding, so the process may prove collaborative if you are willing to engage in and be compensated in equity for a high-level advisory role prior to hiring. We aim to connect with potential investors starting June 1st and officially fill the CTO role shortly after securing funding.

For any questions or to express interest, please don't hesitate to reach out at ben@benten.ai. We look forward to connecting with you!

Join us at Benten Inc. and be part of a transformative journey shaping the future of decentralized AI. Together, we can build an ecosystem that empowers individuals, drives innovation, and creates a more equitable and sustainable future.

Benten Inc. jobs

Chief Technology Officer