Read AI

Staff Software Engineer – Backend, Core Services

Read AI

full-time

Posted on:

Location Type: Hybrid

Location: SeattleWashingtonUnited States

Visit company website

Explore more

AI Apply
Apply

Salary

💰 $220,000 - $250,000 per year

Job Level

About the role

  • Architect, develop, and maintain scalable backend services and APIs, primarily using Python (FastAPI), SQLAlchemy, and AWS infrastructure.
  • Design and implement features for data ingestion, third-party integrations (e.g., Slack, HubSpot, Notion), authentication/authorization, and enterprise-grade security and compliance.
  • Own the full software development lifecycle: requirements gathering, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and monitoring.
  • Collaborate closely with product managers, frontend engineers, and data scientists to deliver innovative solutions.
  • Drive technical excellence through code reviews, mentorship, and best practices in software engineering.
  • Participate in on-call rotations and contribute to operational excellence, reliability, and observability of backend systems.
  • Continuously improve system performance, scalability, and reliability to support rapid user and data growth.
  • Contribute to a culture of innovation, ownership, and customer-centricity.

Requirements

  • 10+ years of professional experience in backend software engineering, with a strong track record of shipping production systems.
  • Proficiency in Python (or similar languages such as Java, C++, or Node.js);
  • Experience designing and building distributed, cloud-native systems (preferably on AWS).
  • Deep understanding of API design, authentication/authorization protocols (OAuth2, JWT), and security best practices.
  • Familiarity with CI/CD, infrastructure-as-code (Terraform), and modern DevOps practices.
  • Excellent communication skills; ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Strong sense of ownership, curiosity, and a passion for innovation and continuous learning.
  • Experience working in a startup or fast-paced environment is highly valued.
  • Experience with containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) is a plus.
Benefits
  • low deductible health plans
  • flexible time away
  • family leave programs
Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools
PythonFastAPISQLAlchemyAWSAPI designOAuth2JWTCI/CDTerraformDocker
Soft Skills
communicationownershipcuriosityinnovationcontinuous learningmentorshipcollaborationtechnical excellenceproblem-solvingcustomer-centricity