Senior Software Engineer - Backend

Read AI • Seattle, WA

2d • $190,000 - $200,000

About The Position

Senior Software Engineer, Backend Read AI is seeking a Senior Software Engineer to join our Backend team. As a senior contributor, you will play a key role in designing, building, and scaling backend systems that power our AI-driven productivity platform. You’ll work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, shipping code weekly and directly impacting millions of users. Complete your application with a Provn skills assessment. This description reflects Read AI’s focus on rapid iteration, technical excellence, and building robust backend systems to support AI-powered productivity tools for a growing user base.

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.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in a startup or fast-paced environment is highly valued.
• Experience with containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

• Software Engineer positions offer a base pay range of $190,000 - $200,000, plus equity and benefits.
• We also offer low deductible health plans, as well as flexible time away and family leave programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees