# Lead Backend Software Engineer

**Company:** [Beacon AI](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/beacon-ai)
**Location:** San Carlos, CA
**Role:** Backend Engineering
**Salary:** $185k – $260k/yr
**Experience:** 5+ years
**Skills:** Python, JavaScript, TypeScript, Node.js, APIs, Distributed Systems, Data Pipelines, Real-Time Data, Big Data, DevOps, DevSecOps, Machine Learning
**Posted:** 2026-07-15

> Lead the design, architecture, and scaling of backend services, APIs, and real-time data pipelines for a mission-critical AI flight safety platform. Requires 5+ years building production backend systems with Python/Node.js, strong ownership, and technical leadership in a hybrid onsite role.

## Job Description

## What You’ll Do
- Architect, build, and maintain backend services and distributed systems that support mission-critical applications.
- Design and implement secure, scalable APIs for internal and external integrations, including real-time data streaming and support for web and mobile clients.
- Build and optimize data pipelines for efficient ingestion, processing, and access to time-series and multimedia data.
- Own backend system reliability, performance, and scalability in production environments.
- Lead technical design discussions and contribute to code reviews and architectural decisions.
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex backend and cloud infrastructure issues to ensure high availability.
- Take ownership of backend features or systems from concept through delivery, working closely with product and cross-functional partners.

## What Will Make You Successful
- 5+ years of experience designing and implementing backend services, APIs, and distributed systems in production environments.
- Fluency in modern backend languages such as Python and JavaScript/TypeScript (Node.js).
- Proven experience building, scaling, and operating backend infrastructure.
- Strong ownership mindset, with experience driving end-to-end systems and features from design through deployment.
- Ability to operate effectively in evolving environments while maintaining high standards for quality and reliability.
- Experience building or working with data pipelines and backend systems handling large-scale or real-time data.

## Bonus Points
- Passion for aviation and a desire to improve air travel efficiency and safety.
- Familiarity with machine learning workflows or data-intensive systems.
- Experience working with big data tools or large-scale data processing frameworks.
- Background in DevOps or DevSecOps, including automating infrastructure and improving system reliability and security.

## Perks & Benefits (Full-Time Employees)
- Healthcare: 100%* of employee medical premiums covered; 25% for dependents
- Time Off: 3 weeks PTO plus 13+ paid company holidays
- Stipends: Monthly phone and wellness benefits
- 401(k): Offered (no current employer match, but we are committed to enhancing this benefit in the future).

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