Strong understanding of AI cost drivers and architecture patterns, including token-based pricing, GPU utilization, inference costs, model hosting, caching, vector databases, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), Cache-Augmented Generation (CAG), prompt engineering, model routing, and how these choices impact cost, performance, scalability, and business value. Experience with cloud cost management tools or native billing platforms, such as AWS Cost Explorer, AWS CUR, Azure Cost Management, Google Cloud Billing, CloudHealth, Apptio Cloudability, Flexera, Harness, or similar platforms.