The Senior Backend Engineer (PostgreSQL Specialist) will work closely with our Lead Developer & Co-Founder to design and implement a world-class data architecture. You'll be responsible for ensuring our database and backend systems scale smoothly, remain performant under heavy load, and align with product growth.

Responsibilities:

Own the design, structure, and optimization of all PostgreSQL databases across the platform
Implement indexing, partitioning, caching, and query optimization strategies to improve performance and reliability
Work cross-functionally to architect and evolve data models that support new features while maintaining efficiency and data integrity
Collaborate with the backend engineering team to ensure backend services integrate seamlessly with database systems
Monitor and tune database performance using metrics and profiling tools
Develop, test, and release backend code that meets Applause's high engineering standards, delivering 90%+ on-time releases
Establish and document conventions and best practices for working with data and backend services
Lead backend initiatives from concept to release—providing technical direction, mentorship, and quality oversight

Requirements

7-12 years of backend engineering experience
5+ years of production experience with PostgreSQL (including advanced indexing, schema design, and performance tuning)
Strong knowledge of scaling databases in a high-traffic SaaS environment
Proficiency with Node.js or a comparable backend environment
Experience with query optimization, replication, partitioning, and migrations
High personal standards for code quality, documentation, and maintainability
Thrives in a fully remote, fast-moving startup environment
Bonus: Experience with database observability tools (e.g., pg_stat_statements, pganalyze, New Relic) or infrastructure-as-code tools for database management

Senior Software Engineer (PostgreSQL Specialist)