Character.AI

Software Engineer, Backend

Character.AI3 months ago
Location

Redwood City, CA

Type

Full Time

Salary

USD 180,000 – 300,000

Level

Senior

Role

Backend Engineer

Posted

Dec 8, 2025

Full TimeSenior

The role

Summary

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.

What you'll do

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

What we look for

Technical

Programming LanguagesStrong proficiency in Python, Go, Java, with preference for Python and Go
Database TechnologiesExpertise in PostgreSQL, MySQL, and NoSQL database solutions
System ArchitectureAdvanced understanding of distributed systems, microservices architecture, and cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, Azure)

Education

Computer Science DegreeBachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related technical field preferred

Experience

Backend Development5+ years of experience building scalable and reliable backend applications
API IntegrationProven experience designing and integrating REST and GraphQL APIs
Cloud and ContainerizationHands-on experience with Docker, Kubernetes, and cloud infrastructure

Skills

Required skills

Backend DevelopmentAdvanced backend system design and implementation skills
System PerformanceExpertise in optimizing system reliability and scalability
Cloud InfrastructureProficient in cloud platform technologies and containerization

Nice to have

Event-Driven ArchitectureExperience with Kafka, RabbitMQ, and event-driven system design
Performance OptimizationKnowledge of advanced caching strategies and performance tuning techniques
DevOps PracticesFamiliarity with CI/CD pipelines and infrastructure as code

Compensation & benefits

Salary

USD 180,000 – 300,000 (annual)

Stock options

Available

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

Interview process

  1. 1
    Initial Screening — Phone or video call with recruiting team to discuss background and role fit
  2. 2
    Technical Assessment — Online coding challenge or take-home project demonstrating backend development skills
  3. 3
    Technical Interviews — Multiple rounds of in-depth technical interviews with senior engineers and team leads
  4. 4
    System Design Interview — Comprehensive interview focusing on distributed systems design and architectural problem-solving
  5. 5
    Cultural Fit Interview — Meeting with potential team members to assess collaboration and alignment with company values
  6. 6
    Final Decision — Comprehensive review of interview feedback and candidate evaluation
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Character.AI

Character.AI

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Character.AI is an artificial intelligence company that provides a platform for users to create and interact with customizable AI characters. These characters can simulate conversations with a wide range of personalities, from fictional figures to historical persons and original creations. The company's mission is to make advanced conversational AI accessible and engaging for everyone, fostering creativity and exploration through its innovative technology. It operates within the burgeoning market of AI-driven entertainment and interactive digital experiences, offering a unique blend of user-generated content and sophisticated AI models.

Menlo Park, USAFounded 2022character.ai

Tech Stack

Languages
PythonGoJava
Frameworks
GraphQLREST
Databases
PostgreSQLMySQLNoSQL Databases
Tools
DockerKubernetes
Other
AWSGCP
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