Staff Software Engineer, Backend

Backend Engineering Team MemberCantina Labs is a social AI company, developing a suite of advanced real-time models that push the boundaries of expression, personality, and realism. We bring characters to life, transforming how people tell stories, connect, and create. We build and power ecosystems.

Cantina, our flagship social AI platform, is just the beginning.If you're excited about the potential AI has to shape human creativity and social interactions, join us in building the future!As part of the Backend Engineering team, you'll design, build, and scale systems and services that revolutionize how users engage with our cutting-edge AI-powered platform. This role is ideal for a self-sufficient senior software engineer who thrives in fast-paced environments.What You'll DoCollaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including product managers, designers, and data specialists, to deliver high-quality, performant, and maintainable features.Build and enhance AI-powered systems supporting user acquisition, onboarding, and engagement.Experiment with and implement new technologies to optimize user journeys and streamline customer experiences.Gain exposure to the architecture and operations behind one of the fastest-growing social AI products globally.Contribute your expertise to help evolve team processes and technical infrastructure, ensuring scalability and reliability.What You'll BringBachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.5–10 years of professional software engineering experience, with expertise in backend and cloud architectures.Proficiency in Golang, Node.js, Javascript, TypeScript, Postgres, and AWS (Lambda, DynamoDB, API Gateway, S3).Solid understanding of software design patterns, microservices architecture, and RESTful APIs.Familiarity with third party services like Segment, Branch.io, or similar marketing tools.Strong communication skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.The anticipated annual base salary range for this role is between $200,000 - $240,000. When determining compensation, a number of factors will be considered, including skills, experience, job scope, location, and competitive compensation market data.BenefitsCompetitive salary and generous company equityMedical, dental, and vision insurance – 99.99% of premiums covered by Cantina42 days of paid time off, including:15 PTO days10 sick days15 company holidays2 floating holidaysGenerous parental leave & fertility support401(k) retirement savings planLifestyle spending account – $500/month to use however you'd likeComplimentary lunch and snacks for in-office employeesOne Medical membership, and more!