A Bengaluru-based startup called Smallest AI is using a new way to hire people. They have posted a job opening for a Full-Stack Tech Lead with a salary of ₹1 crore per year. To apply, candidates do not need to submit a resume, have a degree, or go through a formal interview.
This hiring method shows a change in India’s tech industry. Now, skills and actual work experience are becoming more important than formal qualifications.
No Resume. No Degree. Just Real Work.
Smallest AI has a unique job post that has gained a lot of attention. They state that applicants do not need degrees or resumes. Instead, candidates should show their work through GitHub projects, product demos, or articles they have written.
Instead of using standard interviewing methods, the organisation assesses applicants based on their real work and passion for construction. This tactic enables intelligent people with great coding, design, and leadership abilities to apply for the job even if they don’t have particularly impressive school credentials.
What the Role Offers
The position offers a ₹1 crore per year package, a rare and lucrative offer, especially for early-stage startups. The selected candidate will lead core development at Smallest AI, working on frontier technologies, likely involving machine learning infrastructure, large language models (LLMs), and cutting-edge software systems.
With a lean team and fast-paced execution style, the company seeks someone who’s more “builder than boss.” The listing appeals especially to self-starters and indie hackers who love autonomy, efficiency, and technical depth.
Challenging the Indian Tech Hiring Landscape
In India’s engineering and startup communities, a job posting has generated discussions. It is viewed by many as a step in the right direction towards hiring people based on their skills rather than their experience. Developers who are tired of conventional hiring practices will find this creative approach appealing. It also fits with a global trend where companies like Basecamp and GitLab choose applicants based on their ability to show their skills rather than just talk about them.
Skills Over CVs
Smallest AI’s bold move highlights a growing belief that talent can shine without gatekeeping. As India’s startup ecosystem matures, expect more founders to adopt portfolio-based hiring, especially in deep tech and product-first environments.
Also Read: Experience Marketing: Why Brands Are Selling Feelings, Not Just Products
