Software Engineer

Role: Software Engineer (Backend-leaning, Full-stack responsibilities) Location: El Segundo, CA (On-site, 5 days/week, up to 25% travel) Compensation: $180k – $200k + competitive equity About the Role Smack Technologies is seeking a backend-leaning Software Engineer with full-stack responsibilities to join their small, mission-driven team. This role requires an active Top Secret (TS) clearance and is highly hands-on, with ownership of backend systems, deployment of reinforcement learning models, and integration of classified sensor data. As an early team member, you’ll help shape both the product and the engineering culture while solving high-stakes defense challenges. What You Will Do Build and own core product and backend platform capabilities . Deploy and fine-tune reinforcement learning models in classified environments. Integrate classified sensor data into robust production systems. Work closely with the science team to translate advanced models into production code . Ensure backend systems are highly reliable, accurate, and scalable . Travel (~25%) for customer integrations , including opportunities in Hawaii. What You Will Bring Active Top Secret clearance (required). Strong backend engineering skills with Python and experience across Go and TypeScript . Ability to productionize machine learning models , especially reinforcement learning. Experience building scalable backend infrastructure and data integrations. Comfort working in classified, high-security environments . High agency and ownership — able to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment . Compensation and Perks Salary: $180k – $200k Equity: Competitive Benefits: 401k, PTO, Healthcare Other: Paid travel opportunities (including customer work in Hawaii) Why Join Us Mission-driven impact : Work on defense systems that strengthen deterrence and ensure national security. Small, elite team : Collaborate with ex-Meta, ex-Palantir, and military leaders. High ownership : Be an early member with influence over core product direction. Cutting-edge tech : Deploy reinforcement learning models in real-world, high-stakes scenarios. Fast-moving startup : Combine purpose with rapid growth opportunities. #J-18808-Ljbffr Amadeus Search