Lead Backend Software Engineer

ABOUT BEACON AI We’re a fast-moving team of aviators, engineers, and operators building an AI platform to make flying safer, more efficient, and more capable. Backed by top investors, we’ve secured a dozen Department of Defense contracts and partnered with major airlines to deliver mission-critical systems. We operate without silos or heavy processes. Small, focused teams own what they build, ship quickly, and learn fast, pushing the boundaries of how humans and AI work together in aviation. Role Overview We are seeking a Lead Backend Software Engineer to design, build, and scale the backend systems that power our flight safety platform. In this role, you will take ownership of backend services, APIs, and data pipelines, balancing hands-on development with technical leadership. You’ll work closely with product and cross-functional teams to deliver reliable, secure, and scalable systems that support mission-critical, real-world applications. What You’ll Do - Architect, build, and maintain backend services and distributed systems that support mission-critical applications. - Design and implement secure, scalable APIs for internal and external integrations, including real-time data streaming and support for web and mobile clients. - Build and optimize data pipelines for efficient ingestion, processing, and access to time-series and multimedia data. - Own backend system reliability, performance, and scalability in production environments. - Lead technical design discussions and contribute to code reviews and architectural decisions. - Troubleshoot and resolve complex backend and cloud infrastructure issues to ensure high availability. - Take ownership of backend features or systems from concept through delivery, working closely with product and cross-functional partners. What Will Make You Successful - 5+ years of experience designing and implementing backend services, APIs, and distributed systems in production environments. - Fluency in modern backend languages such as Python and JavaScript/TypeScript (Node.js http://node.js). - Proven experience building, scaling, and operating backend infrastructure. - Strong ownership mindset, with experience driving end-to-end systems and features from design through deployment. - Ability to operate effectively in evolving environments while maintaining high standards for quality and reliability. - Experience building or working with data pipelines and backend systems handling large-scale or real-time data. Bonus Points - Passion for aviation and a desire to improve air travel efficiency and safety. - Familiarity with machine learning workflows or data-intensive systems. - Experience working with big data tools or large-scale data processing frameworks. - Background in DevOps or DevSecOps, including automating infrastructure and improving system reliability and security. Work Location This is a hybrid role based in San Carlos, CA, with 3+ days per week onsite and the option to work remotely on remaining days. Perks & Benefits (Full-Time Employees) - Healthcare: 100%* of employee medical premiums covered; 25% for dependents - Time Off: 3 weeks PTO plus 13+ paid company holidays - Stipends: Monthly phone and wellness benefits - 401(k): Offered (no current employer match, but we are committed to enhancing this benefit in the future). Due to U.S. export control regulations, we can only hire U.S. Persons (U.S. citizens, Green Card holders, lawful permanent residents, or individuals granted asylum or refugee status). We are unable to provide visa sponsorship or support visa transfers. All work must be performed in the United States. Beacon AI is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. We prohibit harassment or discrimination of any kind in the workplace and comply with all applicable fed