Senior Software Engineer - Distributed Systems

Smarkets runs one of the world’s most sophisticated prediction markets, handling over £29 billion in volume since 2010 and engaging 200,000+ traders globally. We’re a technology company that revolutionises betting - from sports to political markets, delivering the sharpest prices and the fairest odds. Our stack is designed for scale, reliability, and speed: Linux, Kafka, Postgres, Kubernetes, with Python 3, Rust, C++17, and React powering our platform. We build infrastructure that institutions trust while keeping trading accessible to everyone.

At the heart of our success are our people. We create a high-performance environment where exceptional talent can thrive, blending deep business experience with a commercial mindset to drive strategic growth. If you’re ready to help shape the future of prediction markets with cutting-edge technology and a customer-first philosophy, Smarkets is where you belong.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimisation of backend services written in Python and Rust.
• Architect and build scalable, distributed systems to meet the evolving needs of the platform.
• Enhance system reliability through robust monitoring and alerting systems.
• Drive and enforce best practices in code quality, testing, and continuous integration/delivery (CI/CD).
• Collaborate with product managers and engineering teams to define and deliver complex, high-impact projects.
• Mentor and guide engineers across the team, fostering a culture of technical excellence and growth.
• Drive technical decision-making and contribute to the evolution of our backend architecture.
• Ensure the performance and stability of critical services by implementing improvements with a forward-looking mindset.

Role Requirements

• 6+ years of experience in software engineering, with a focus on backend systems.
• Familiarity with Python or at least one compiled language (Java, C++, Rust, Go) and keen on learning Rust.
• Proven experience designing and building distributed systems in modern cloud environments (AWS, GCP, or similar).
• Deep knowledge of DevOps practices and tools, including GitLab and Kubernetes (K8S).
• Strong experience with message queuing systems (e.g., Apache Kafka) and relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL).
• Previous experience in Sports Betting or Finance industries is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, with a proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated leadership in driving complex technical projects to successful completion.

Our Values

• Push to Win: We set ambitious goals and relentlessly pursue them, always striving for excellence.
• Make Others Better: We lift each other up, share knowledge, and celebrate team success over individual achievement.
• Give a Shit: We care deeply about our work, our users, and the impact we make.
• Be a Pro: We take ownership, act with integrity, and consistently deliver to a high standard.
• Bring the Energy: We bring positivity, curiosity, and enthusiasm to everything we do, inspiring those around us.

Culture Fit: These values define how we succeed as a team. If this isn’t you, this may not be the right place. We hire people who thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, and ambitious environment.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, alongside a dynamic, collaborative environment where your work truly makes an impact and your voice is heard. Our team is diverse, driven, and ambitious - united by a strong work ethic and a hunger to innovate and win. Our benefits are designed around Health, Wealth, and Development, supporting you both professionally and personally. These include:

• Stock Options: Vest over 4 years, your success is our success.
• Pension Scheme: Competitive plan via Aviva, with up to 6% matched contributions if you opt in.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage to keep you and your family healthy.
• Enhanced Parental Leave: Enhanced maternity and paternity leave to support you through life’s most important moments.
• Stay Fuelled: Enjoy fresh, chef-made breakfast and lunch every day, plus a constant supply of fruit, snacks, tea, coffee and soft drinks.
• Cycle-to-Work Scheme: Support for sustainable commuting and staying active.
• Learning & Development: £1,000 annual education budget for courses, conferences, books, or training.
• Holiday: 25 days paid leave + bank holidays, with the option to carry over 5 days.
• Flexible Working: Hybrid model with 3 days in the office and 2 days from home to fit your lifestyle.
• Global Working: Work from anywhere in the world for up to 20 days a year.
• Team Energy: Regular socials, hackathons, and events — because collaboration and fun go hand-in-hand.

What Happens Next

We aim to have a simple and speedy hiring process, and we want to make sure that we are right for you as much as the other way around.

• CV application review: We will review it as quickly as possible.
• Let’s chat: Quick chat with our team about your experience and the role.
• Technical Interview: Live Coding + System Design.
• Experience and Mindset Chat: with an Engineering Manager.
• In Office Interview: Lunch with other colleagues in the team + LT chat.

Diversity & Inclusion

We’re an equal opportunities employer and celebrate diversity in all its forms. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know — we’re happy to accommodate your needs.