Role overview
We're hiring a Senior Backend Engineer to architect the core systems behind Align's task synchronization platform. You'll build reliable, high-performance APIs that connect dozens of SaaS tools, handle real-time updates across thousands of tasks, and scale with enterprise customers. This role owns the systems that make cross-platform alignment seamless for fast-moving teams.
Responsibilities
Design and build scalable APIs for task sync, webhooks, and integrations
Architect real-time synchronization systems using WebSockets and event streams
Optimize database performance for high-volume task and integration data
Implement robust webhook handling for external SaaS platform integrations
Lead technical design for new integration connectors and API expansions
Build monitoring, alerting, and observability for mission-critical sync systems
Collaborate with frontend engineers on API contracts and data requirements
Conduct code reviews, mentor junior engineers, and drive technical best practices
Required qualifications
5+ years backend engineering experience with Node.js, Python, or Go
Deep expertise building and scaling REST/GraphQL APIs
Strong experience with PostgreSQL, Redis, or similar for high-throughput systems
Proven track record with real-time systems (WebSockets, Server-Sent Events)
Experience integrating with third-party APIs and OAuth/webhook patterns
Excellent problem-solving skills and systems thinking for complex distributed systems
Strong communication skills for technical discussions with product and design
Comfortable in startup environment with ownership and ambiguous requirements
Bonus:
Experience building developer tools, task managers, or integration platforms
Familiarity with SaaS integration patterns (Zapier, native APIs, webhooks)
Background with message queues (RabbitMQ, Kafka, SQS) for event-driven systems
Contributions to open-source projects or SaaS platform integrations
What we offer
Ownership of core sync engine powering multi-million task synchronizations
Fully remote with engineering team syncs and company offsites
Generous tech budget for tools, conferences, and learning resources
Equity in fast-growing SaaS transforming team productivity
Direct customer impact working with engineering leaders at scale-ups
Career growth into Engineering Lead or Architect roles
