Staff Software Engineer, Backend

About the OpportunityWe're partnering with a fast-growing, well-funded AI startup in Seattle that's building cutting-edge agentic AI technology for enterprise customers.We're looking for a highly technical, hands-on Staff Backend Engineer to lead complex engineering initiatives, architect scalable systems, and build innovative AI-powered products from the ground up.What You'll DoDesign and build scalable backend systems supporting AI-driven workflows and distributed applications.Lead complex technical projects from architecture through production.Build 0-to-1 systems and solve ambiguous technical challenges.Drive architectural decisions around scalability, performance, and reliability.Collaborate with engineering and product teams while mentoring other engineers.Remain hands-on with coding, deployment, and production systems.What We're Looking For8+ years of software engineering experience with deep backend expertise.Strong background in distributed systems, system design, and software architecture.Experience leading complex projects independently from concept to production.Proven experience building 0-to-1 products or systems.Strong ownership, problem-solving skills, and product mindset.Experience with TypeScript, LLMs, AI agents, or early-stage startups is a plus.Why Join?Competitive compensation and meaningful equity.Opportunity to build next-generation AI technology.High-impact technical ownership with minimal bureaucracy.Collaborative, in-person engineering team in Seattle.