Lead Backend Engineer

About PlyPly is a materials buying and management platform designed for HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical SMB contractors. We help our customers streamline materials management, resulting in less time spent on procurement, reduced supplier management burdens, minimized materials waste, and unified payment terms that provide cash flow predictability.Founded in 2022, Ply has raised $16M to tackle the toughest procurement challenges facing mechanical businesses in the $250B+ materials market.As a Lead Backend Engineer, you’ll work closely with the founders, product, and engineering teams to develop and scale our backend systems, refine our technology stack, and build exceptional solutions that enhance customer experiences. Your work will directly impact how contractors manage procurement every day.Location: NYC Office - In office 2-3 days a week. Your RoleAs a Lead Backend Engineer, you will be a pivotal contributor to Ply's technical foundation. You’ll design, build, and scale backend systems that power our platform, enabling our customers to operate their businesses more efficiently and effectively.Your Responsibilities Will IncludeArchitecting, building, and maintaining backend services that support Ply’s procurement and inventory management platform.Designing scalable, secure APIs and data pipelines to enable seamless integration across the platform.Collaborating with remote cross-functional teams, including product, design, and customer success, to ensure the platform meets user needs.Ensuring high performance and reliability through robust monitoring, testing, and performance optimization.Proactively identifying and resolving technical challenges, including bottlenecks and bugs, to maintain seamless operations.Working directly with customers to triage bugs and identify areas for improvement.Mentoring junior developers and fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.Incorporating customer feedback into technical decisions to ensure the product evolves in alignment with user needs.Leading a team of remote backend engineers to deliver high-quality solutions.Who You AreMust-Haves:5-8+ years of professional experience in backend development within a B2B SaaS environment.Proficiency in Java.Strong experience with relational and non-relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MongoDB, DynamoDB).Deep understanding of API design principles.Proficiency in AWS and cloud-based development.Proven track record of building scalable, maintainable, and secure systems.Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on delivering impactful solutions.Experience in developing integrations with third-party systems.Familiarity with DevOps tools and practices (e.g., CI/CD pipelines, Infrastructure as Code).Knowledge of security best practices in software development.Proficient with AI tools a must.Nice-to-Haves:Previous experience in procurement, supply chain, or contractor management industries.What We OfferThe opportunity to make a significant impact at an early-stage startup, helping shape our engineering culture, architecture, and product roadmap.Competitive compensation, including equity in the company.Comprehensive benefits, including:Flexible time offWFH stipend to set up your home officeComputer and monitor providedInsurance coveragePly is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer, committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.How to ApplyPlease contact darion@getply.com with your resume and introduction. I likely will not be looking at the linkedin submissions.