
Senior Backend Security and Identity Engineer
Uphold Inc.
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Hybrid
Location: New York City • New York • United States
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Job Level
Tech Stack
About the role
- Design, build, and improve identity and authentication infrastructure that balances user experience with regulatory requirements.
- Implement modern authentication solutions including passkeys, WebAuthn, and advanced multi-factor authentication mechanisms (2FA, OTP, biometrics).
- Build systems that enable continuous monitoring, compliance reporting, and forensic analysis for fraud prevention and regulatory teams.
- Collaborate closely with Product, Fraud Prevention, Compliance, and Regulatory teams to ensure security solutions meet business and legal requirements.
- Research, evaluate, and select third-party identity providers, security vendors, and authentication platforms.
- Architect and implement integrations with external identity and security solutions.
- Design systems that comply with financial regulations, ensuring strong customer authentication (SCA) and auditability.
- Develop and maintain technical documentation, security policies, and architecture decision records.
- Lead hiring, coaching, and development of team members as the team grows.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
- 5+ years of relevant work experience in backend engineering with deep expertise in identity, authentication, and security systems.
- Deep experience with at least one of these languages and strong familiarity with the other: JavaScript (node.js) or Golang.
- Proficient in authentication protocols and standards (OAuth2, OIDC, SAML, WebAuthn, FIDO2).
- Experience building and scaling identity platforms at fintech companies or security-focused engineering roles at scale.
- Understanding of risk-based authentication, fraud prevention patterns, and security controls in financial products.
- Knowledge of regulatory frameworks impacting authentication (e.g., PSD2, KYC/AML requirements).
- Proven ability to architect secure, auditable systems that balance user experience with compliance needs.
- Experience evaluating and integrating third-party identity and security vendors.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work under pressure.
- Team-oriented and collaborative.
- Interest and readiness to take on people management responsibilities as the team grows.
Benefits
- Annual bonus program based on individual, team and company performance.
- Home office stipend to support the setup of a productive home office.
- Generous PTO, healthcare coverage, and employee assistance programs.
- Interesting and fun events and celebrations.
- Foodie culture and well-stocked office kitchen.
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills & Tools
JavaScriptnode.jsGolangOAuth2OIDCSAMLWebAuthnFIDO2identity platformsauthentication protocols
Soft Skills
communicationorganizationalproblem-solvingteam-orientedcollaborativeability to work under pressureleadershipcoachingdevelopment of team membersinterpersonal