Senior Software Engineer - Backend

Plaid2 weeks ago

Location

San Francisco

Type

Full Time

Salary

USD 180,000 – 250,000

Level

Senior

Role

Backend Engineer

Posted

Mar 2, 2026

Full TimeSenior

The role

Summary

Plaid is seeking a Senior Backend Software Engineer to join their innovative financial technology platform. The ideal candidate will design and develop scalable backend services, collaborate across cross-functional teams, and contribute to Plaid's mission of unlocking financial freedom through robust, performant software solutions.

What you'll do

Backend Service Development: Design and maintain high-performance, reliable, and scalable backend services that power Plaid's financial data integration platform

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with product managers, operations, design, and data science teams to define and implement innovative features

Code Quality and Maintenance: Write clean, efficient, and maintainable code with a strong focus on system design and architectural best practices

Testing and Quality Assurance: Develop comprehensive automated tests, troubleshoot system issues, and ensure the highest standards of code reliability

Technical Leadership: Mentor junior engineers, review technical documents and code changes, and contribute to the team's technical growth and standards

What we look for

Technical

Database ExperienceExtensive experience with MySQL and other relational database systems

Microservices ArchitectureProven expertise in designing and developing microservices-based applications

System DesignStrong skills in system design, performance optimization, and scalable architecture

Education

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

Experience

Professional Experience5+ years of software engineering experience with a proven track record of successful project deliveries

Leadership ExperienceDemonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance

Skills

Required skills

Backend DevelopmentAdvanced proficiency in backend software engineering principles and practices

CommunicationExcellent cross-functional communication and project management skills

Nice to have

Financial Technology ExperiencePrior experience or strong interest in fintech and financial data integration platforms

Compensation & benefits

Salary

USD 180,000 – 250,000 (annual)

Benefits

Health Insurance

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

Stock Options

Equity compensation to align employee interests with company growth

Flexible Work

Potential for remote or hybrid work arrangements

Professional Development

Continuous learning opportunities and career growth programs

Interview process

1
Initial Screening — Phone or video call with recruiting team to assess background and experience
2
Technical Assessment — Online coding challenge or take-home project to evaluate technical skills
3
Technical Interviews — Multiple rounds of in-depth technical interviews focusing on system design, coding, and problem-solving
4
Cultural Fit Interview — Discussion with team members to assess alignment with Plaid's mission and values
5
Final Interview — Meeting with senior leadership to discuss role expectations and potential impact