Fractional Technical Project Lead (AI-Native SaaS, Part-Time)

We’re building an AI-powered iOS app that turns messy camera rolls into beautiful monthly video journals. Our backend is live. Architecture is stable. Product works. But our lead engineer is currently doing everything — backend development (Python), AI orchestration, testing, infrastructure (GCP), and release management. We’re looking for a part-time Technical Project Lead to bring clarity, rhythm, and structured execution to the system. This is not a traditional PM role. You won’t manage a team of engineers. You’ll help one excellent engineer stay focused, reduce overwhelm, and prevent regressions across a Python + GCP microservices stack. Tech Environment • Backend: Python • GCP (Cloud Run, Pub/Sub, Cloud SQL, Cloud Storage) • Containerized microservices • React Native frontend • GitHub CI/CD • AI-assisted development workflow What You’ll Do • Map service dependencies • Define clear “done” criteria before dev begins • Structure weekly execution plans • Identify breakpoints before they become bugs • Help systematize testing workflows • Maintain steady release cadence • Bring consistency to a one-dev AI-powered environment We care more about systems thinking and execution discipline than heavy coding. You Might Be a Fit If: • You’ve worked in SaaS environments • You understand Python backends and cloud infra • You’re deeply comfortable using AI tools in engineering workflows • You bring calm structure to complex systems • You prefer consistency over chaos 15–20 hrs/week Remote Async-friendly If this sounds interesting, message me directly with: 1. A short note on how you reduce overwhelm in lean technical teams 1. An example of a system you stabilized