Staff Software Engineer

Responsibilities

• Architect and build web applications using Ruby on Rails, Sinatra/Padrino, and Django.
• Make and own technical decisions involving infrastructure, data modeling, API design, and emerging technologies.
• Set code quality standards through code reviews, architectural guidance, and constructive feedback.
• Write automated tests covering real-world edge cases.
• Identify performance bottlenecks and systemic issues before they cause outages.
• Mentor engineers and raise the technical capability of the team.
• Work directly with stakeholders to understand learner and staff needs, determine what to build, and lead execution.
• Help evolve the platform through new Rails functionality, Sinatra-to-Rails migration, AI/ML integrations, and large-scale growth.

Requirements

• 10+ years of software engineering experience, including at least 5 years with Ruby on Rails.
• Familiarity with Claude Code or similar development tools and related best practices.
• Strong systems-thinking orientation with attention to scalability, maintainability, and failure modes.
• Strong PostgreSQL and database design skills, including complex queries, indexing strategies, and schema evolution.
• Working familiarity with the full web stack, from infrastructure to CSS.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical decisions in a small, autonomous team environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Passion for education and desire to make a positive impact.
• Experience with higher education or edtech is a plus.
• Production experience with LLMs and generative AI is a plus.
• Familiarity with Docker, Ansible, and/or Terraform is a plus.
• Experience deploying on GCP is a plus.

Benefits

• 100% remote position available to applicants in the United States, Europe, Canada, and LATAM.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance with 90% employer coverage for employees and dependents, plus healthcare reimbursement, FSAs, and an Employee Assistance Program.
• 401(k), employer-paid life and disability insurance, and identity theft protection.
• Generous paid time off, paid holidays, 10 weeks of fully paid parental leave, and annual company closure from December 24 through January 2.
• $1,000 annual professional development stipend and home office setup support.
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, plus pet wellness plans, legal services, insurance discounts, and marketplace savings.