Software Engineer, Generalist

Cursor7 months ago

Location

SF / NY

Type

Full Time

Salary

USD 150,000 – 250,000

Level

Mid

Role

Full Stack Engineer

Posted

Jul 29, 2025

Full TimeMid

The role

Summary

Software Engineer, Generalist at Cursor in San Francisco or New York, working on AI-powered coding automation tools. The role involves full-stack development, AI/ML integration, and building products for professional programmers in a flat, talent-dense organization focused on inventive research and engineering.

What you'll do

AI-Powered Code Automation: Design and implement AI-driven features for automated code generation, completion, and refactoring within the Cursor IDE

Full-Stack Development: Build and maintain both frontend user interfaces and backend services that power the Cursor coding platform

Language Server Integration: Develop and optimize language servers for multiple programming languages to provide intelligent code analysis and suggestions

Performance Optimization: Optimize application performance for real-time code processing and AI model inference to ensure smooth user experience

Research and Experimentation: Collaborate on inventive research projects to explore new approaches to AI-assisted coding and developer productivity tools

Cross-Platform Development: Ensure Cursor works seamlessly across different operating systems and development environments

User Experience Engineering: Work closely with design team to implement intuitive interfaces that make AI coding assistance accessible to professional programmers

Code Quality and Reviews: Participate in code reviews, maintain high coding standards, and contribute to architectural decisions for the platform

What we look for

Technical

Full-Stack Development3+ years of experience building both frontend and backend applications with modern web technologies

JavaScript/TypeScript ProficiencyStrong expertise in JavaScript and TypeScript for building scalable web applications

AI/ML IntegrationExperience integrating machine learning models and AI APIs into production applications

Code Editor DevelopmentFamiliarity with VS Code extensions, Language Server Protocol, or similar developer tooling

System DesignUnderstanding of distributed systems, API design, and scalable architecture patterns

Education

Computer Science DegreeBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent practical experience

Continuous LearningDemonstrated ability to quickly learn new technologies and adapt to evolving AI/ML landscape

Experience

Professional Development3-5 years of software engineering experience with a track record of shipping production software

Startup ExperienceExperience working in fast-paced, early-stage startup environments with small, autonomous teams

Developer ToolsPrevious experience building or contributing to developer productivity tools, IDEs, or programming languages

Open Source ContributionsActive participation in open source projects, particularly those related to developer tooling or AI

Skills

Required skills

Problem SolvingExceptional problem-solving skills with ability to tackle complex technical challenges in AI and software development

Truth-Seeking MindsetCommitment to finding the best solutions through research, experimentation, and data-driven decision making

CollaborationStrong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a flat, talent-dense organization

Shipping MentalityFocus on delivering high-quality software products quickly and iteratively

Nice to have

AI Research BackgroundAcademic or industry experience in artificial intelligence, machine learning, or natural language processing

Compiler/Language DesignExperience with compiler design, programming language theory, or language tooling development

Performance EngineeringExpertise in optimizing software performance, particularly for real-time applications

Design SensibilityUnderstanding of user experience design principles and ability to contribute to product design decisions

Compensation & benefits

Salary

USD 150,000 – 250,000 (annual)

Stock options

Available

Benefits

Equity Package

Significant equity stake in a high-growth AI startup with substantial upside potential

Premium Office Spaces

Beautiful offices in North Beach San Francisco and Manhattan with well-stocked libraries and collaborative spaces

Health Coverage

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage

Learning Budget

Annual budget for books, courses, conferences, and other professional development resources

Top-Tier Equipment

Latest MacBook Pro, external monitors, and any other hardware needed for optimal productivity

Flexible PTO

Unlimited paid time off policy with encouragement to take time for rest and creativity

Research Time

Dedicated time for exploring new technologies and contributing to the future of AI-assisted coding

Interview process

1
Application Review — Initial review of resume, portfolio, and GitHub profile focusing on code quality and relevant project experience
2
Phone/Video Screening — 30-45 minute conversation with engineering team member about background, interests, and alignment with Cursor's mission
3
Technical Take-Home — Real-world coding challenge related to AI integration or developer tooling, typically taking 2-4 hours to complete
4
Technical Deep Dive — 90-minute technical interview discussing the take-home project, system design, and problem-solving approach
5
Culture and Vision Fit — Final round with team members and leadership focusing on cultural alignment, creativity, and passion for the mission
6
Office Visit — Optional visit to SF or NY office to meet the team, see the workspace, and ask any remaining questions