Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about how we work, what roles we recruit for, and how the engagement is structured.
Search Process
How does the recruiting process work?
We start with a hiring intake call to understand the role, must-have skills, compensation range, interview process, and ideal candidate profile. From there we define a search strategy, source and contact targeted candidates, qualify them for interest and fit, and present a shortlist. We support the process through offer acceptance.
How long does a search typically take?
Timeline varies by role complexity, seniority, and how competitive the compensation range is. Most searches yield an initial shortlist within two to four weeks of search kickoff. We set realistic expectations at intake based on market conditions for the specific role.
What is a hiring intake call?
A short call — typically 30 to 60 minutes — where we learn the role in detail: responsibilities, must-have technical skills, seniority expectations, compensation range, interview process, and what makes the company attractive to strong candidates. The intake call is the foundation of an effective search.
How do you screen candidates before presenting them?
We qualify candidates on interest, compensation alignment, location expectations, and role fit through direct outreach and conversations. For technical roles, we apply practical AI/ML/data domain knowledge to assess whether a candidate's background is genuinely relevant — not just a keyword match. We present candidates we believe can do the job.
What does the shortlist look like?
You receive a curated list of qualified candidates with a summary of each — background, relevant experience, compensation expectations, and why we think they are a fit. We aim for quality over quantity: a tight, well-aligned shortlist rather than a stack of resumes.
Scope & Coverage
What roles do you recruit for?
We focus on AI, ML, GenAI, data science, data engineering, and related technical roles — including AI Engineer, ML Engineer, GenAI/LLM Engineer, Data Scientist, Applied Scientist, Data Engineer, Analytics Engineer, AI Product Manager, and technical leadership roles (Head of AI, Director of Data Science, VP Data/AI). If your role is adjacent, submit it and we will let you know if we can support it.
Do you recruit at all seniority levels?
Yes. We recruit from mid-level through director and VP. Our strongest coverage is individual contributor and senior IC roles (3–10+ years of experience), and we recruit for technical leadership as well.
Do you work with companies outside the U.S.?
Our primary focus is U.S.-based searches and U.S.-located or U.S.-remote candidates. If you have a specific international or cross-border need, contact us to discuss.
Can you recruit for a role that is not on your roles list?
Possibly. Submit the role and we will review it. If it is adjacent to AI/ML/data and we have the domain context to run a strong search, we will let you know. If it is outside our coverage, we will tell you clearly rather than running a weak search.
Engagement & Fees
How is the recruiting fee structured?
Most early searches are structured on a contingency basis — a recruiting fee due only after a successful hire. The fee percentage and guarantee period are confirmed in a written agreement before the search begins. Retained or hybrid structures may be considered for specialized or urgent roles.
Do you publish your fee percentage?
We do not publish a fixed rate publicly. Fee terms — percentage, guarantee period, and replacement policy — are agreed in writing before search kickoff. We prefer a conversation so the terms fit the engagement.
What makes a search more likely to succeed?
The strongest searches start with a clear role profile, a realistic compensation range for the market, a responsive hiring manager, and a reasonably fast feedback loop on candidates. If any of those are missing, we will flag it at intake.
Working Together
Will you submit my resume to a company without my permission?
No. We do not submit any candidate's resume or information to a company without explicit candidate permission. Before representation, we discuss the role, company, compensation range, location expectations, and process.
I was contacted about a role — how do I verify this is legitimate?
You can reach us directly at info@sunrayhire.com to verify any outreach. We will confirm the role and our involvement. If we contacted you, we are happy to discuss the opportunity in more detail before you decide whether to proceed.
How do I submit a role as an employer?
Go to the Employers page and fill out the Submit a Role form — or book a hiring intake call directly. We review every submission and follow up within one business day.
How do I submit my resume as a candidate?
Go to the Candidates page and complete the form. Include your LinkedIn profile and a link to your resume or an overview of your background. We review submissions and reach out when a relevant search is active.
Don't see your question here? Book a call or email us at info@sunrayhire.com.
Hiring for an AI, ML, or data role?
Send us the role details and we will respond with whether the search is a fit.