Senior Software Engineer (PostgreSQL Specialist)

Applause

2h•Remote

About The Position

The Senior Backend Engineer (PostgreSQL Specialist) will work closely with our Lead Developer & Co-Founder to design and implement a world-class data architecture. You’ll be responsible for ensuring our database and backend systems scale smoothly, remain performant under heavy load, and align with product growth.

Requirements

7–12 years of backend engineering experience.
5+ years of production experience with PostgreSQL (including advanced indexing, schema design, and performance tuning).
Strong knowledge of scaling databases in a high-traffic SaaS environment.
Proficiency with Node.js or a comparable backend environment.
Experience with query optimization, replication, partitioning, and migrations.
High personal standards for code quality, documentation, and maintainability.
Thrives in a fully remote, fast-moving startup environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience with database observability tools (e.g., pg_stat_statements, pganalyze, New Relic) or infrastructure-as-code tools for database management.

Responsibilities

Own the design, structure, and optimization of all PostgreSQL databases across the platform.
Implement indexing, partitioning, caching, and query optimization strategies to improve performance and reliability.
Work cross-functionally to architect and evolve data models that support new features while maintaining efficiency and data integrity.
Collaborate with the backend engineering team to ensure backend services integrate seamlessly with database systems.
Monitor and tune database performance using metrics and profiling tools.
Develop, test, and release backend code that meets Applause’s high engineering standards, delivering 90%+ on-time releases.
Establish and document conventions and best practices for working with data and backend services.
Lead backend initiatives from concept to release—providing technical direction, mentorship, and quality oversight.