About the role

Senior Backend Developer responsible for critical backend systems management and API development. Join high-impact engineering team at Enlighten, delivering big data solutions for the Department of Defense.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, test, deploy, and maintain complex, scalable, and critical backend systems and services capable of handling massive data volumes and high query loads.
Take full ownership of challenging technical projects, driving them from initial concept through to production and ongoing iteration.
Engage with a variety of technical domains, including: Building and evolving RESTful APIs and backend services.
Modifying, extending, and optimizing complex open-source software (e.g., Trino).
Implementing and managing sophisticated identity federation solutions (e.g., Keycloak).
Developing and operating large-scale data ingestion pipelines (e.g., using Airflow).
Enhancing and automating deployment processes (CI/CD) using technologies like Kubernetes.
Collaborate effectively within a team of experienced engineers, contributing to a culture of shared knowledge and mutual respect.
Apply strong problem-solving skills to diagnose, debug, and resolve complex technical issues, ensuring system reliability and performance.
Champion pragmatic and robust solutions, adapting quickly to new technologies and evolving business needs.
Operate with a high degree of independence in a low-process environment, taking initiative and driving results.

9+ years of experience as a software engineer, designing, developing, and deploying complex backend systems.
Bachelor's in related field or 7 years experience with Masters; or High School Diploma and 13 years experience.
Proficiency in one or more of our primary backend languages: Java, Python, Go.
Experience working with or modifying Trino (or similar distributed SQL query engines).
Experience with containerization and orchestration, particularly Kubernetes.
Familiarity with PostgreSQL or similar relational databases.
A drive for pragmatic solutions with a strong bias for action and a "get stuff done" mentality.
Possess a low-ego and collaborative approach to teamwork and technical discussions.
Self-motivated and thrive in a low-process, high-autonomy environment.
Highly adaptable and a quick learner.
Significant experience building and maintaining API endpoints and backend services.
Comfortable with modifying and extending complex open-source projects.
Solid understanding and practical experience with identity federation protocols.
Proficient in deployment automation and CI/CD practices and tools.
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to systematically debug and resolve intricate issues.
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.