.Your #1 priority as **Lead Backend Engineer** is an unwavering focus on performance, efficiency, and reliability. You will ensure the backend is always running as optimally as possible, which includes constantly optimizing code and queries, paying attention to benchmarks, slowdowns and errors. You will have a minimum of 8+ years experience as a Lead Backend Engineer, and in this role your focus will be the continued optimization, enhancement, innovation, and development of a stable, robust, aesthetic and maintainable backend system that powers the entire platform.**Requirements**:Must have a proven track record and 8+ years experience with a variety of NoSQL and SQL based databases, specifically Postgres and MongoDB.MUST be proficient and comfortable designing and implementing client-side database systems and creating a syncing solution to communicate with the backend. This will be built off of WatermelonDB.Proven skill handling and working with extremely large datasets, with nearly 6 million podcasts and 160 million podcast episodes in the Podopolo database constantly being read and updated.Should be comfortable with NodeJS based API solutions, like NestJS.Experience implementing and building upon two-way realtime communication protocols like WebSockets.Comfortable and familiar with creating and utilizing custom blockchain solutions.Must have strong familiarity with AI & ML based solutions for analytics, recommendations, and user insights.Proven ability to write concise, well-organized code that is easy to understand, especially as more features are added.A collaborative team player able to work with the CTO, VP of Engineering and the Director of Development to scope, design, and come up with an implementation plan of new features.Proven ability to implement 3rd party APIs, libraries and services, and comfortable with making patches and alterations to open source codebases.Able to assist other developers with their tasks, participate in code reviews, and be able to "jump in" where needed.Build reusable components and libraries for future useProven ability to leverage high quality, customizable, open-source plugins and modules while developing new and existing features.Ideally you will have proven expertise with consumer mobile apps, especially with social, gamification, advertising, and e-commerce features and functionality. Prior experience in a similar role with an early stage, fast paced start-up in an agile environment is required, as is an ability to work both collaboratively and independently with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.As a team leader, you are expected to have a deep understanding of the code, strict attention to detail, and be a mentor to others on the team.This position will report to the CTO and collaborate closely with the Head of Product.This is a Remote Position hiring in the United States.A Good Time to JoinWe are a venture-backed startup positioned for rapid scaling and revenue growth