Senior Software Engineer, Backend - Platform (Payment Rails)

About the Role

The ideal candidate will have a passion for building scalable and reliable systems, a deep understanding of distributed systems, APIs, and system design, and excellent problem-solving skills. You will be working closely with cross-functional teams, including Product, Design, Compliance, and Finance, to translate complex payment requirements into robust technical solutions.

What You Will Do

• Design and build scalable payment systems that process millions of transactions daily, developing APIs, services, and integrations that power deposits, withdrawals, and fund transfers across multiple payment methods and rails.
• Own backend services end-to-end from architecture through production, writing high-quality, well-tested code and operating services that must be correct, auditable, and reliable in a real-time financial environment.
• Partner cross-functionally with Product, Design, Compliance, and Finance to translate complex payment requirements into robust, scalable technical solutions that balance speed, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Drive technical vision and execution by working with engineers, product managers, and senior leadership to shape the long-term roadmap for Payment Rails, identifying opportunities to improve reliability, reduce latency, and scale our systems.
• Integrate with internal and external partners, including banking systems, payment processors, and teams across Coinbase, to ensure seamless money movement across the platform.
• Contribute to engineering excellence by mentoring teammates, participating in design reviews, and helping build a strong, inclusive, and high-performing engineering culture.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, ensuring that all services and systems are well-documented and easily accessible to other engineers.
• Collaborate with other engineers to identify and prioritize areas for improvement, driving the adoption of best practices and new technologies.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and new tools, applying this knowledge to continuously improve the Payment Rails platform.

What We Are Looking For

• 5+ years of experience in backend software engineering, with demonstrated experience building high-volume, low-latency distributed systems.
• Strong coding skills in Go (preferred) or similar languages, with a solid understanding of relational databases, transactions, and data consistency.
• Experience designing and operating production services at scale, including monitoring, alerting, incident response, and performance optimization.
• Deep understanding of distributed systems, APIs, and system design, with a focus on scalability, reliability, and security.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with experience working with cross-functional teams to drive technical projects forward.
• Passion for building scalable and reliable systems, with a focus on continuous improvement and innovation.
• Experience with Agile development methodologies and version control systems such as Git.

Nice to Have

• Experience with cloud-based infrastructure, such as AWS or Google Cloud, and containerization using Docker.
• Knowledge of security best practices and experience with security audits and compliance.
• Familiarity with machine learning and data analytics, with a focus on applying these technologies to improve payment systems.
• Experience with DevOps practices, including continuous integration and continuous deployment.
• Certification in a relevant field, such as software engineering or cybersecurity.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and equity package, with a focus on recognizing and rewarding outstanding performance.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, with a focus on supporting the well-being of our employees.
• Generous PTO and holiday policy, with a focus on providing a healthy work-life balance.
• Remote work stipend, with a focus on supporting employees in their remote work setup.
• Access to a wide range of training and development opportunities, with a focus on continuous learning and growth.
• Opportunity to work with a talented and dedicated team, with a focus on collaboration and innovation.
• Flexible working hours, with a focus on supporting employees in their personal and professional lives.
• Access to the latest tools and technologies, with a focus on staying ahead of the curve in the fintech industry.

• Tip: Make sure to highlight your experience with backend software engineering, distributed systems, and system design in your resume and cover letter.
• Be prepared to talk about your approach to building scalable and reliable systems, as well as your experience with APIs and system integration.
• Show a passion for innovation and a willingness to learn, as the fintech industry is constantly evolving.
• Be prepared to provide examples of your problem-solving skills, as well as your experience with security audits and compliance.
• Research the company culture and values, and be prepared to talk about how you align with them.
• Prepare to ask questions about the team, the role, and the company, such as what a typical day looks like, what the biggest challenges are, and what opportunities there are for growth and development.