Senior Software Engineer, Backend – ML Feature Platform

Affirm

. Own and deliver quarterly goals for the team .

Posted 11/12/2026full-timeRemote • United States, CanadaSenior💰 $173,000 - $233,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in designing and developing highly available distributed backend systems using Python or Kotlin, while effectively leading teams through ambiguity and fostering a culture of quality and ownership. Proficient in collaborating across product management, design, and analytics to drive successful product development and operational excellence.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Backend System DesignPython DevelopmentAWS ExperienceKubernetes ProficiencyStrong Communication Skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Backend System DevelopmentDistributed Systems DesignCode Review StandardsHigh-Quality Code WritingLarge Codebase Modification

Soft Skills

Team LeadershipFeedback and GuidanceProblem SolvingCollaborationOwnership

Tools & Technologies

AWSMySQLKubernetes

Industry Keywords

Product Development LifecycleTechnical PlansMetrics MonitoringOperational SupportOn-Call Efforts

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

AWSDistributed SystemsKotlinKubernetesMySQLPython

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Own and deliver quarterly goals for the team
Lead engineers through ambiguity to solve open-ended problems
Support team members throughout delivery
Collaborate with product management, design, and analytics throughout the product development lifecycle
Participate in ideation and articulate technical constraints
Partner on decisions considering risks and trade-offs
Identify and lead resolution of project, process, technology, and business issues
Support operations and availability of team artifacts
Create and monitor metrics and escalate issues when needed
Support keep-the-lights-on and on-call efforts
Set and improve code review and design standards
Advocate for quality and ownership 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 using languages like 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
Elegant, simple, and extensible system design skills
Ability to write high-quality, maintainable code
Proficiency making significant changes in large codebases
Tools and practices for safely modifying large codebases
Proactively seeks feedback and takes ownership of professional growth
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Equivalent practical experience or a Bachelor's degree in a related field

Benefits

Comp & perks

Equity rewards may be included in the total compensation package
Monthly stipends for health, wellness, and tech spending
100% subsidized medical coverage for employees and dependents
Dental and vision coverage for employees and dependents
Remote-first work with flexibility within the country of employment
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
In-person onboarding experience for all new hires