# Senior Software Engineer, Backend

**Company:** [Duolingo](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/duolingo)
**Location:** Pittsburgh, PA
**Role:** Backend Engineering
**Salary:** $183k – $247k/yr
**Experience:** 5+ years
**Skills:** Java, Python, Kotlin, Data Structures, Algorithms, Software Design, Databases, Public Cloud, OpenTelemetry, Grafana, Prometheus, Datadog
**Posted:** 2026-08-24

> Build and operate reliable, scalable backend services and infrastructure for Duolingo’s advertising business. The role requires strong backend fundamentals, systems thinking, programming experience in Java, Python, or Kotlin, and a bachelor’s degree in a technical field.

## Job Description

## Responsibilities
- Collaborate on software projects spanning product design and backend engineering.
- Develop, release, and maintain backend services and infrastructure.
- Lead project priorities and milestones while ensuring consistent delivery.
- Build and operate reliable, scalable systems, taking ownership from design through production.
- Work cross-functionally with product, design, data science, machine learning, and ad operations on advertising systems.

## Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related technical field.
- Strong competency in data structures, algorithms, and software design.
- Experience programming in **Java**, **Python**, or **Kotlin**.
- Solid understanding of one or more database technologies.

## Nice-to-haves
- Experience building high-traffic APIs using public cloud providers.
- Experience with observability technologies such as **OpenTelemetry**, **Grafana**, **Prometheus**, or **Datadog**.

## Compensation and Benefits
- Base salary range: **$182,800–$247,300 USD**.
- Base salary is supplemented by equity compensation.
- Benefits support employees’ holistic well-being.

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