Senior Backend Engineer

About the Role

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of Ruby on Rails, SQL databases, and experience with Agile development methodologies. You will be working on complex projects, solving challenging problems, and collaborating with colleagues to achieve shared goals. Your work will have a direct impact on the success of Toptal's products and services, and you will be expected to continuously learn, adapt, and innovate.

Toptal's commitment to remote work and digital innovation provides a unique opportunity for backend engineers to work on cutting-edge projects, collaborate with talented professionals, and grow their careers in a dynamic and supportive environment.

What You Will Do

• Design, develop, and test software applications using Ruby on Rails and other technologies
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and prioritize project requirements
• Develop and maintain AI-powered platforms, ensuring they are efficient, scalable, and meet the highest standards of quality
• Work on the infrastructure part of the project, collaborating with Infrastructure Engineers
• Participate in code reviews, ensuring that all code is high-quality, readable, and well-documented
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues, providing support and guidance to colleagues as needed
• Contribute to the development of best practices, standards, and procedures for software development and testing
• Participate in Agile development methodologies, including sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and retrospectives
• Collaborate with colleagues to identify and prioritize project requirements, ensuring that solutions meet business needs and are technically sound
• Stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, trends, and best practices in software development, applying this knowledge to continuously improve processes and solutions

What We Are Looking For

• 5+ years of experience in web development, with a strong focus on Ruby on Rails and SQL databases
• Strong knowledge of object-oriented programming, automated software testing, and development methodologies
• Experience with Agile development methodologies, including sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and retrospectives
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions
• Experience with GraphQL and Kafka is preferred, but not required
• Knowledge of JavaScript/TypeScript, Node.js, and React is a plus
• Ability to consider multiple quality dimensions, including user impact, failure tolerance, code maintenance, implementation time, security breaches, and performance

Nice to Have

• Experience with cloud-based systems and technologies, including AWS or Google Cloud
• Knowledge of DevOps practices and tools, including Docker, Kubernetes, and Jenkins
• Experience with machine learning and artificial intelligence, including natural language processing and computer vision
• Certification in Ruby on Rails, Agile development, or related technologies
• Experience working in a remote environment, with a proven track record of success in distributed teams

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects, collaborating with talented professionals
• Flexible working hours and remote work arrangement, with the ability to work from anywhere
• Access to the latest technologies, tools, and training, with a commitment to ongoing learning and development
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment, with a focus on innovation, creativity, and fun
• Recognition and rewards for outstanding performance, including bonuses and promotions
• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Generous PTO and holiday policy, with the ability to recharge and relax
• Access to a global network of professionals, with opportunities for networking and career growth

• To stand out as a candidate, be prepared to showcase your technical expertise in Ruby on Rails and AI-powered platforms, with examples of your work and contributions to open-source projects.
• Develop a strong understanding of Toptal's products and services, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's goals and objectives.
• Focus on building a strong portfolio that demonstrates your technical skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, with a clear and concise presentation of your achievements.
• Be prepared to discuss your experience working in remote teams, and how you handle communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution in a distributed environment.
• Emphasize your passion for learning, innovation, and continuous improvement, with a commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends in software development.
• Be prepared to negotiate your salary and benefits package, with a clear understanding of your worth and the market rate for your skills and experience.
• Research Toptal's culture and values, and be prepared to discuss how you align with the company's mission, vision, and principles.