Senior Software Engineer, Backend

Affirm

. Own and deliver quarterly goals for the team .

Posted 11/9/2026full-timeRemote • United StatesSenior💰 $173,000 - $233,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in designing and developing scalable backend systems using Python or Kotlin, while effectively leading teams through complex problem-solving and fostering professional growth. Proficient in AWS, MySQL, and Kubernetes, with a strong focus on code quality and engineering standards.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Backend System DesignPython ProgrammingAWS ProficiencyKubernetes ExperienceCode Review Standards

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Backend DevelopmentDistributed SystemsHigh-Quality Code WritingCodebase ManagementOperational Metrics Monitoring

Soft Skills

Team LeadershipVerbal CommunicationWritten CommunicationFeedback and GuidanceProblem-Solving

Tools & Technologies

AWSMySQLKubernetes

Certifications & Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in Related Field

Industry Keywords

Technical PlansEngineering StandardsOperational MetricsOn-Call SupportRisk and Trade-Off Decisions

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

AWSDistributed SystemsKotlinKubernetesMySQLPython

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Own and deliver quarterly goals for the team
Lead engineers through ambiguous, open-ended problems
Support team members throughout delivery
Collaborate with product management, design and analytics during ideation and product development
Articulate technical constraints and partner on risk and trade-off decisions
Identify and lead resolution of project, process, technology and business issues
Create and monitor operational metrics
Escalate issues and support keep-the-lights-on and on-call efforts
Set and improve code review and design standards
Advocate for engineering standards through writing and tech talks
Develop team talent through feedback, guidance and leading by example

Requirements

What you’ll need

4+ years of experience designing, developing and launching backend systems at scale
Experience with backend languages such as Python or Kotlin
Track record developing highly available distributed systems
Experience with AWS, MySQL and Kubernetes
Experience defining technical plans for significant features or system components
Ability to write high-quality, understandable, extensible code
Proficiency making significant changes in large codebases
Tools and practices for making codebase changes safely
Strong ownership of professional growth and proactive feedback-seeking
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Either equivalent practical experience or a Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Benefits

Comp & perks

Monthly stipends for tech setup
Monthly stipends for health and wellness options
100% subsidized medical coverage for employees and dependents
Dental and vision coverage for employees and dependents
Flexible time off
Generous holiday calendars
Employee stock purchase plan (ESPP) allowing employees to buy Affirm stock at a discount
Inclusive interview process and accommodations for candidates with disabilities
Remote-first flexibility
In-person onboarding experience for all new hires