Sr. Software Engineer, Backend
Sr. Software Engineer, Backend

Sr. Software Engineer, Backend

Full-Time No home office possible
Acorns

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Solve complex technical challenges and design scalable software architecture.
  • Company: Join Acorns, a leading financial wellness app transforming lives.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, stock options, flexible work, and comprehensive benefits.
  • Other info: Be part of a motivated team dedicated to meaningful societal change.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on financial wellness for millions while growing your career.
  • Qualifications: 8-10 years in software engineering with expertise in backend systems.

At Acorns, our mission is to look after the financial best interests of the up-and-coming, beginning with the empowering step of micro-investing. Our values guide us, and our mission drives us. Come join us and help deliver financial wellness for the whole family, putting the tools of wealth-making into everyone’s hands.

Acorns is seeking a Senior Backend Engineer to serve as a technical pillar for the team that builds and scales our core investment offerings. In this role, you will go beyond execution—you will be responsible for the technical integrity and architectural evolution of systems that help millions of customers build long-term wealth. You will tackle sophisticated technical challenges, provide mentorship to emerging talent, and ensure our backend infrastructure remains resilient as we expand our suite of financial wellness tools.

Acorns is a remote-first organization, offering the flexibility to work remotely while providing optional access to office space in Irvine, CA.

What you will do at Acorns:

  • Analyze and solve interesting business and technical challenges.
  • Develop software architecture that stands the test of scale and time.
  • Champion our customers at every turn.
  • Collaborate and lead with heart.
  • Be a mentor and a guide.
  • Bridge the gap between tech and business.

What you will bring to Acorns:

  • A substantial career history in software engineering, typically evidenced by 8–10 years of experience (or 5+ years with an advanced degree).
  • Expert-level command of backend systems design and architectural best practices.
  • Professional experience with Ruby on Rails is highly preferred (though not mandatory).
  • Advanced proficiency with Postgres is highly recommended (though not mandatory).
  • Experience navigating AWS environments is preferred.
  • Experience with TypeScript is a plus.
  • Previous experience within the Financial Industry or fintech space is a plus.
  • A track record of exercising sound judgment when selecting methods and techniques for solving non-routine engineering problems.
  • Hunger to deliver game-changing products.
  • Exceptional drive and precision in delivery.
  • A belief that your work is tied to your life's mission.
  • Optimistic about the potential of societal change.

What we offer:

  • Competitive salary and stock options.
  • A comprehensive benefits package for you and your family.
  • Flexible work location, hours, and paid time off.
  • 401(k) matching.
  • Monthly Acorns account contribution & GoHenry account for your family.
  • Mindfulness and Financial Wellness resources.
  • Acorns Career Development Program.
  • Roots Leadership Program for Emerging Leaders.
  • Community week onsite gatherings and various virtual events.
  • Talented and motivated team members who care deeply about one another, our mission, and our customers.
  • The rare opportunity to create a new world.

About Acorns: Acorns is a financial wellness app that helps everyday people and families save and invest money for the long term. Since 2014, Acorns has grown into a global company with multiple life-stage products serving the needs of kids, teens, adults, and parents.

Sr. Software Engineer, Backend employer: Acorns

At Acorns, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions financial wellness and personal growth. Our remote-first culture offers flexibility while fostering collaboration and mentorship, ensuring that every team member can thrive in their career. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and a commitment to meaningful work, we empower our employees to make bold decisions and drive societal change.
Acorns

Contact Detail:

Acorns Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Sr. Software Engineer, Backend

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Acorns on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by diving deep into Acorns' mission and values. Think about how your experience aligns with their goals of financial wellness and innovation. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re a perfect fit!

✨Tip Number 3

Practice your technical skills! Brush up on backend systems design and Ruby on Rails. You might get asked to solve a coding challenge, so being sharp will help you stand out as a top contender.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows you’re genuinely interested in the role and appreciate the opportunity to connect.

We think you need these skills to ace Sr. Software Engineer, Backend

Backend Systems Design
Architectural Best Practices
Ruby on Rails
Postgres
AWS Environments
TypeScript
Financial Industry Knowledge
Problem-Solving Skills
Mentorship
Collaboration
Communication Skills
Analytical Skills
Empathy in Design
Project Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how your values align with ours at Acorns. Share why you're excited about helping people achieve financial wellness.

Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in backend systems design and any specific technologies mentioned in the job description. We love seeing how your unique skills can contribute to our mission!

Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to show your personality! We value authenticity and want to get to know the real you. Use a conversational tone and share stories that reflect your journey and growth in software engineering.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Acorns!

How to prepare for a job interview at Acorns

✨Understand the Mission and Values

Before your interview, take some time to really understand Acorns' mission and values. They’re all about financial wellness and empowering people. Think about how your own values align with theirs and be ready to share examples of how you’ve led with heart or made bold decisions in your past roles.

✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise

As a Senior Backend Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your command of backend systems design. Prepare to discuss specific projects where you've tackled complex technical challenges, especially if they relate to Ruby on Rails or AWS. Bring along examples of your work that highlight your problem-solving skills and architectural best practices.

✨Emphasise Collaboration and Mentorship

Acorns values teamwork and mentorship, so be prepared to talk about your experience working with others. Share stories about how you've collaborated with cross-functional teams or mentored junior engineers. This will show that you can lead with heart and help foster a supportive environment.

✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions

Expect questions that dig into your past experiences and decision-making processes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Think of times when you had to make tough decisions or adapt to change, as these will resonate with Acorns' value of never stopping growing.

Sr. Software Engineer, Backend
Acorns

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