Software Engineer, Backend
Backend Engineer · Senior · Full Time
Opens Character.AI's application page
Role
What you'll do.
Character.AI is seeking an experienced Backend Software Engineer to develop and maintain scalable, high-performance backend systems that power their innovative AI character interaction platform. The ideal candidate will design robust backend services, implement secure APIs, and optimize system performance while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams in a fast-growing AI technology startup.
Responsibilities
- Backend System Development: Design, develop, and maintain scalable backend services supporting Character.AI's AI-driven platform and infrastructure
- API Design and Integration: Implement secure and efficient REST and GraphQL APIs to support frontend applications and third-party integrations
- Performance Optimization: Optimize system performance, reliability, and scalability through advanced architectural strategies and engineering best practices
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with product managers, data analysts, and frontend engineers to develop backend solutions aligned with business and user needs
- System Monitoring and Maintenance: Ensure high availability, fault tolerance, and performance of backend systems through continuous monitoring and proactive improvements
- Security Management: Maintain rigorous security best practices to protect user data and system integrity
Qualifications
What we look for.
Technical
Programming Languages
Strong proficiency in Python, Go, Java, with preference for Python and Go
Database Technologies
Expertise in PostgreSQL, MySQL, and NoSQL database solutions
System Architecture
Advanced understanding of distributed systems, microservices architecture, and cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure)
Education
Computer Science Degree
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related technical field preferred
Experience
Backend Development
5+ years of experience building scalable and reliable backend applications
API Integration
Proven experience designing and integrating REST and GraphQL APIs
Cloud and Containerization
Hands-on experience with Docker, Kubernetes, and cloud infrastructure
Skills
Required
Backend Development
Advanced backend system design and implementation skills
System Performance
Expertise in optimizing system reliability and scalability
Cloud Infrastructure
Proficient in cloud platform technologies and containerization
Preferred
Event-Driven Architecture
Nice to haveExperience with Kafka, RabbitMQ, and event-driven system design
Performance Optimization
Nice to haveKnowledge of advanced caching strategies and performance tuning techniques
DevOps Practices
Nice to haveFamiliarity with CI/CD pipelines and infrastructure as code
Tech stack
Languages
Frameworks
Databases
Tools
Other
Compensation
Pay and benefits.
Base·USD 180,000 – 300,000
Equity·Stock options
Benefits
Innovative Work Environment
Be part of a cutting-edge AI technology startup that achieved unicorn status within two years
Career Growth
Opportunity to shape the future of Consumer AI and work on groundbreaking interactive entertainment technologies
Diversity and Inclusion
Inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives and backgrounds
Process
Interview steps.
- 01
Initial Screening
Phone or video call with recruiting team to discuss background and role fit
- 02
Technical Assessment
Online coding challenge or take-home project demonstrating backend development skills
- 03
Technical Interviews
Multiple rounds of in-depth technical interviews with senior engineers and team leads
- 04
System Design Interview
Comprehensive interview focusing on distributed systems design and architectural problem-solving
- 05
Cultural Fit Interview
Meeting with potential team members to assess collaboration and alignment with company values
- 06
Final Decision
Comprehensive review of interview feedback and candidate evaluation
Full posting
Original listing.
About the Role
We are looking for a talented and motivated Backend Engineer to join our team. You will be responsible for building and maintaining scalable, high-performance backend systems that power our products. Collaborating with designers, data scientists, and engineers, you'll play a key role in conceptualizing, designing, and delivering robust and efficient backend solutions.
What you’ll do
Design, develop, and maintain scalable backend services that support our applications and infrastructure.
Implement secure and efficient APIs to support frontend applications and third-party integrations.
Optimize system performance, reliability, and scalability through effective architecture and engineering best practices.
Work closely with product managers, data analysts, and frontend engineers to develop backend solutions that align with business and user needs.
Ensure high availability, fault tolerance, and performance of backend systems.
Monitor system health, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements to enhance efficiency and stability.
Maintain security best practices to protect user data and system integrity.
Stay up to date with industry trends and emerging technologies in backend development and distributed systems.
Who you are
5+ years of experience in backend development, building scalable and reliable applications.
Strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, or Go. Python and Go are preferred.
Experience with database technologies such as PostgreSQL, MySQL, or NoSQL solutions.
Familiarity with designing and integrating APIs, including REST and GraphQL.
Understanding of distributed systems, microservices architecture, and cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, or Azure).
Experience with containerization and orchestration tools like Docker and Kubernetes.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to optimize system performance and reliability.
Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with event-driven architectures and messaging systems (Kafka, RabbitMQ, etc.).
Knowledge of caching strategies and performance optimization techniques.
Experience working on large-scale, high-traffic applications.
Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and DevOps best practices.
Exposure to machine learning or data-driven applications.
About Character.AI
Character.AI empowers people to connect, learn and tell stories through interactive entertainment. Over 20 million people visit Character.AI every month, using our technology to supercharge their creativity and imagination. Our platform lets users engage with tens of millions of characters, enjoy unlimited conversations, and embark on infinite adventures.
In just two years, we achieved unicorn status and were honored as Google Play's AI App of the Year—a testament to our innovative technology and visionary approach.
Join us and be a part of establishing this new entertainment paradigm while shaping the future of Consumer AI!
At Character, we value diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. As an equal opportunity employer, we firmly uphold a non-discrimination policy based on race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or disability. Your unique perspectives are vital to our success.
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