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Back End Programming Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ProNexus

Backend Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The company is hiring a Backend Engineer to build the reliable systems behind its AI products. About the role As a Backend Engineer, you will design and build the services, APIs, data models, and ...

Bedrock Data

Engineer, Backend

San Mateo, CA · On-site

They are seeking a backend engineer to build their cloud security platform, collaborating with various teams to drive product development and innovation. Responsibilities : • Design and Implement ...

Pump.co

Backend Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

They are seeking a Backend Engineer to contribute directly to their product and infrastructure, collaborating closely with engineers and designers to build and scale their platform. Responsibilities ...

Pump.co

Backend Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As a Backend Engineer, you will contribute to the core of the product and infrastructure, collaborating closely with engineers and designers to build and scale the platform while ensuring system ...

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Back End Programming information

What is back end programming?

Back end programming refers to the development of server-side logic, databases, and application programming interfaces (APIs) that power the functionality of web and mobile applications. Back end programmers write code that handles data storage, processing, and security, allowing the front end (what users see) to interact with servers and databases. Common back end languages include Python, Java, Ruby, PHP, and Node.js. These developers ensure that applications run smoothly, securely, and efficiently behind the scenes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a back end programmer?

To thrive as a Back End Programmer, you need strong proficiency in server-side languages (such as Java, Python, or Node.js), knowledge of databases (SQL/NoSQL), and a solid understanding of algorithms and data structures. Familiarity with frameworks (like Django, Spring, or Express), RESTful API development, and version control systems (e.g., Git) is typically required, along with relevant certifications or a computer science degree. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These competencies ensure robust, scalable, and maintainable back end systems that support seamless application performance.

What are some common challenges faced by back end programmers when working on cross-functional teams?

Back end programmers often collaborate closely with front end developers, designers, and product managers, which can present challenges such as aligning technical back end solutions with user-facing requirements and timelines. Communication gaps may occur when translating business goals into technical tasks or integrating APIs with front end components. Staying adaptable and maintaining clear documentation can help back end programmers ensure smooth collaboration and project success in a cross-functional environment.

What is the difference between Back End Programming vs Front End Development?

AspectBack End ProgrammingFront End Development
Primary FocusServer-side logic, databases, application architectureUser interface, website layout, client-side interactions
Required SkillsProgramming languages like Java, Python, Ruby; database management; server managementHTML, CSS, JavaScript; UI/UX design; responsive design
Work EnvironmentBackend servers, cloud platforms, databasesWeb browsers, design tools, client devices
Common CertificationsOracle Java Certification, AWS Certified DeveloperCertified Web Developer, Adobe Certified Expert

Back End Programming focuses on server-side development, managing databases, and application logic, while Front End Development centers on creating the visual and interactive aspects of websites. Both roles are essential for full-stack development but differ in skills, tools, and daily tasks.

What does a back end programmer do?

A back end programmer develops and maintains the server-side components of web applications, including databases, server logic, and APIs. They use programming languages like Java, Python, or Ruby and work with frameworks and tools to ensure data is processed efficiently and securely. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of server management are essential for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Back End Programming jobs in California?

For Back End Programming jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Back End Programming jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Back End Programming jobs in California are:

Back End Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Back End Programming job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Software Engineer, Backend/Applied ML (Safety & Integrity)

Character.ai

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$150K - $300K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

About the role
We're looking for a talented and creative Software Engineer to join our Safety Engineering team at Character.AI! In this role, you will be at the forefront of designing, developing, and scaling robust backend systems and leveraging applied machine learning to tackle critical integrity and safety challenges. You will be architecting and implementing innovative solutions in a key role in addressing the unique safety challenges that come with human-to-AI interaction-bringing your technical expertise to the table as we define industry best practices in this emerging space. This is a high-impact role where you will provide technical leadership, drive innovation, and contribute to the core of our platform's trustworthiness.
What you'll do
  • Architect & Build: Design, develop, and maintain highly scalable, resilient, and performant backend systems that power our integrity and safety features.
  • Lead Complex Solutions: Lead the technical design and implementation of sophisticated backend solutions for detecting, preventing, and mitigating a wide array of integrity risks. This includes traditional issues (e.g., content classification, spam, etc.) as well as emerging threats related to Generative AI (e.g., misuse of generative models, generation of harmful or biased content, etc).
  • Apply Machine Learning: Conceptualize, develop, deploy, and iterate on machine learning models and algorithms to address complex integrity challenges. This includes areas like content classification (including AI-generated content), anomaly detection, risk scoring, behavior analysis, and developing safeguards for Generative AI systems (e.g., robust content filtering, bias mitigation techniques, and output monitoring).
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with product managers, data scientists, AI researchers, security teams, and operations to define requirements, design innovative solutions, and deliver impactful integrity systems, especially for Generative AI products.
  • Technical Strategy & Roadmap: Drive the long-term technical vision and roadmap for backend integrity systems and applied ML capabilities, with a keen eye on addressing Generative AI safety concerns with an alignment with company objectives.
  • Mentorship & Leadership: Provide technical guidance and mentorship to other engineers on the team and across the organization, fostering a culture of engineering excellence.
  • Champion Best Practices: Advocate for and implement best practices in software engineering, distributed systems design, data engineering, and the full lifecycle of ML model development, including specific considerations for the safety and ethics of Generative AI.
  • System Optimization: Continuously analyze and improve the performance, scalability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of existing integrity platforms and ML models.
  • Stay Current: Keep abreast of emerging threats, new technologies, and advancements in backend engineering, distributed systems, the application of machine learning to trust and safety, and the evolving landscape of Generative AI safety research and mitigation techniques.
Who you are
  • 8+ years of professional software engineering experience, with a strong emphasis on backend systems development.
  • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Proven track record of designing, building, and operating complex, large-scale, and highly available distributed systems.
  • Expertise in one or more backend programming languages such as Python, Go, Java, or C++.
  • Hands-on experience in applying machine learning techniques to solve real-world problems, specifically with demonstrable experience in addressing integrity, trust, or safety challenges.
  • Solid understanding of the machine learning lifecycle, including data gathering and cleaning, feature engineering, model selection, training, validation, A/B testing, deployment, and operational monitoring.
  • Exceptional problem-solving abilities, with a knack for tackling ambiguous and technically challenging problems.
  • Proven ability to work in a fast-paced development environment and deliver timely results.
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.

You will be a great fit if:
  • You care deeply about Trust & Safety and see it as a value-add to the business
  • Prior experience in a dedicated Trust & Safety, Integrity, or Risk engineering team.
  • Contributions to open-source projects or publications in relevant fields.
  • Experience leading large, cross-cutting technical projects.

About Character.AI
Character.AI empowers people to connect, learn and tell stories through interactive entertainment. Over 20 million people visit Character.AI every month, using our technology to supercharge their creativity and imagination. Our platform lets users engage with tens of millions of characters, enjoy unlimited conversations, and embark on infinite adventures.
In just two years, we achieved unicorn status and were honored as Google Play's AI App of the Year-a testament to our innovative technology and visionary approach.
Join us and be a part of establishing this new entertainment paradigm while shaping the future of Consumer AI!
At Character, we value diversity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. As an equal opportunity employer, we firmly uphold a non-discrimination policy based on race, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or disability. Your unique perspectives are vital to our success.

Apply