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Backend Engineer

GK News
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Backend Engineer (Mid-level)

Role Summary:

We are looking for a Mid-level Backend Engineer to implement and optimize core server-side features of our confidential media analysis system. Under the guidance of the Lead Engineer, you will develop API endpoints, enhance performance, and ensure that the system’s data outputs are structured and secure. This role offers a chance to contribute significantly to a fast-paced project while maintaining strict NDA confidentiality. (Boston or NYC preferred; remote considered.)

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and maintain backend API endpoints and business logic for various features of the media analysis platform.
  • Optimize performance and scalability of the server-side application (efficient algorithms, caching, load handling) to meet project requirements.
  • Ensure the backend produces well-structured outputs (e.g., JSON) that include analysis details such as highlighted text segments and tags for content.
  • Implement server-side rendering logic for content highlighting/tagging so that the frontend receives data ready for visualization.
  • Work closely with the Lead Engineer to integrate your code with the overall system architecture, following best practices for code quality and security.
  • Identify and fix bugs or bottlenecks in the backend, performing debugging and testing to maintain a robust and reliable service.

Requirements:

  • 2-4 years of experience in backend development (building web services, APIs, or similar server-side applications).
  • Proficiency in a server-side programming language and framework (e.g., Python with Flask/Django, Node.js with Express, etc.) for API development.
  • Solid understanding of performance optimization (profiling code, database query tuning, caching strategies) and ability to write efficient, clean code.
  • Experience working with structured data formats (JSON, XML) and transforming data for consumption by frontends or other systems.
  • Basic knowledge of web security practices (handling of authentication, authorization, avoiding common vulnerabilities).
  • Good collaboration and communication skills – able to work closely with a lead engineer and adjust to feedback in an iterative development process.
  • NDA compliance: Must sign an NDA and maintain confidentiality of project details and data.

Preferred Skills:

  • Familiarity with text processing or content management systems (e.g., handling and parsing article text, applying tags/annotations).
  • Experience deploying applications on cloud infrastructure or using containerization (AWS, GCP, Docker, etc.).
  • Knowledge of database systems (SQL or NoSQL) and ability to design efficient data models or queries for content storage and retrieval.
  • Exposure to front-end concepts or full-stack development, enabling better collaboration with the UI engineer on data requirements.
  • Experience in a startup or rapid development environment, comfortable with agile methodologies and quick iteration.

Time Commitment:

  • Full-time engagement (~40 hours per week) during the 1-month initial build phase.
  • Agile, sprint-based workflow focusing on delivering key backend features within tight timelines.
  • Location: Boston or NYC is preferred (to possibly coordinate in-person on occasion), but remote work is fully acceptable.
  • Potential to extend beyond the initial month; high-performing contributors may be offered a longer-term position in the project’s ongoing development.

What Makes This Role Unique:

  • Key Contributor: You will be a core member of a small team, building crucial backend features from scratch – your work will have visible, immediate impact.
  • Learning Opportunity: Gain hands-on experience optimizing a system for performance and accuracy in a unique domain (media/content analysis) under the mentorship of a senior lead.
  • Confidential Project: Work on an exciting, NDA-protected project where you’ll tackle interesting challenges (like content highlighting and structured analytics) that aren’t found in typical apps.
  • Fast-Paced & Rewarding: Join a fast-paced development sprint that will rapidly expand your skills and allow you to take ownership of significant technical components.
  • Future Prospects: Impress during the contract and you could secure a longer-term role with the team, growing with the project as it scales.