Software Architect, Back-End

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in New York.

📋 Description

• Take ownership of the back-end systems and architecture that support TED’s media, identity, and related systems.

• Develop and maintain large-scale Ruby on Rails applications backed by MySQL.

• Ensure dependable service delivery to millions of users.

• Achieve successful implementation of TED’s digital platform by adhering to coding standards, test-driven development, CI/CD, observability, alerting, and documentation.

• Provide a back-end technology platform that meets stringent 24/7/365 service level agreements (SLAs).

• Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and stakeholders to align on delivery expectations.

• Engage in program management practices, scrum-style meetings, standups, department meetings, and ticketing/tracking processes.

• Advocate for pairing and conduct thorough code reviews.

• Support the development of other back-end engineers through collaborative code reviews.

• Assess user requirements and devise solutions for new features.

• Create tools and libraries for use by back-end engineers and throughout the company.

• Oversee and evaluate back-end testing, performance, and code quality.

• Influence and direct the back-end strategy for conference products.

• Experiment with emerging technologies and share findings with the team.

• Utilize AI-enabled workflows to enhance team collaboration.

• Contribute as necessary to ensure overall effectiveness.

• Undertake additional duties and special projects as assigned.

⛳️ Requirements

• Over 10 years of experience with Ruby on Rails, including gem development or Rails engines.

• More than 10 years of experience with MySQL.

• At least 12 years of professional software development experience overall.

• Familiarity with DevOps technologies, including containerization solutions; Docker/AWS is preferred.

• Strong preference for experience in GraphQL API authoring and delivery.

• Proven success in designing complex ecosystems of web services.

• Experience utilizing AI technology to enhance coding productivity without compromising quality.

• Background in scalability, uptime, and quality of service.

• Knowledge of data security and privacy practices.

• Experience with other relational and document-based database technologies.

• Strong emphasis on code quality, documentation, test-driven development, performance, scalability, monitoring, and readability.

• Capability to debug and test issues across complex, interconnected web services.

• Curiosity and understanding of new web technologies and frameworks.

• Ability to refactor legacy projects and engage in greenfield development.

• Capacity to lead projects from inception to completion while balancing quality and speed.

• Values collaborative, cross-functional teamwork and a diverse workplace.

• Familiarity with Git, version control systems, and Unix/Linux command-line best practices.

• Some experience with JavaScript back-end technologies; familiarity with Express/Node is a plus.

• Some exposure to JavaScript, CSS, HTML, and related Web APIs is advantageous.

• Proficiency in using common office equipment and software, including MS Office, Mac applications, Google Docs, and functional databases.

• A cover letter, resume, and writing sample or portfolio are required.

🏝️ Benefits

• Employees have the option to work remotely.

• Commitment to equal opportunity and affirmative action employment.

• Travel may be required upon request.