Software Engineer IV – Media (Backend)

Job Title: Software Engineer IV – Media (Backend)Location: Kirkland, WADuration: 9 months (with potential for extension)We are looking for a senior Backend Software Engineer to join a high‑impact Media team supporting large‑scale video and media playback platforms. In this role, you will design and build reliable, scalable backend services that power modern media applications used by millions of users.This position is ideal for an experienced backend engineer who enjoys owning technical direction, mentoring others, and working across teams to solve complex, performance‑critical problems especially in video, media delivery, and CDN‑driven systems.ResponsibilitiesDesign, develop, and maintain backend services and APIs using server‑side languages such as PHP, Java, Go, or C/C++Lead technical design and architecture decisions within the backend/media domainDebug and resolve complex production issues related to performance, scalability, and reliabilityImplement best practices for operational excellence, including service reliability and maintainabilityBuild and enhance monitoring, logging, and alerting to proactively detect system issuesCollaborate with frontend, media, and infrastructure teams to deliver end‑to‑end solutionsProvide technical mentorship and guidance to junior and mid‑level engineersSupport production systems and drive improvements based on real‑world usageRequired Skills & Experience:Strong proficiency in at least one backend language: PHP, Java, Go, or C/C++ (PHP experience is a plus)Deep understanding of backend fundamentals, including API design, Data modeling, Caching strategies, Queuing and asynchronous processingHands‑on experience with public cloud platforms such as AWS, GCP, or AzureProven experience working with CDN architectures and video delivery systems, including: High‑resolution video (e.g., 4K/8K), Cache optimization, Edge computing conceptsStrong debugging, troubleshooting, and problem‑solving skillsExperience across the full software development lifecycleAbility to work independently and clearly communicate technical concepts to diverse stakeholdersNice to HaveBackground in video, media streaming, or content delivery platformsExperience driving architectural decisions in large‑scale systemsFamiliarity with AI‑powered development tools (e.g., AI‑assisted coding, debugging, or design workflows) and an interest in using AI to improve engineering productivityEducationBachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field