ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Backend Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TabaPay

Backend Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$140K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science * 5+ years of experience in back-end software engineering * Wants to code 90% of the time as an individual contributor Preferred Qualifications * Master's Degree ...

SPAN

Staff Backend Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Designing a flexible and distributed electrical grid The Role We are seeking a seasoned backend software engineer to join our team building the cloud-based glue that gives our users access to the ...

Lumafield

Backend Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA

... backend setting using major web frameworks (Flask, Django, FastAPI, etc.) * Experience with large dataset processing using numpy * Strong software engineering fundamentals including git, unit testing ...

Atoms

Senior Backend Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

As a Senior Backend Software Engineer, you will design and scale core infrastructure for real-time edge computing products, working on complex problems and collaborating with various engineering ...

Outset.ai

Backend Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$160K - $300K/yr

The ideal candidate will have: * 3+ years of software engineering experience building production-grade backend systems. * Strong proficiency with Python and Django, including experience building ...

Winaxis

Software Engineer (Back End)

Fremont, CA · On-site

Software Engineer (Back End) Location: Fremont, CA Duration: 12+ Mos Summary: Our direct client is searching for a Back End Software Engineers with experience in backend development, who will be ...

Hired Recruiters

Backend Engineer

Redwood City, CA · On-site +1

As a backend software engineer at the company you'll contribute to design and development of various infrastructure projects including data collection pipelines, backends to support sensor ...

Okta

Staff Software Engineer, Backend

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$194K - $267K/yr

The Staff Software Engineer Opportunity We're looking for a Staff Backend Software Engineer who wants to work on hard problems: distributed systems and building software where getting it right really ...

Otter

Backend Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

As a Backend Engineer on the Otter Verify team, you will design and implement core infrastructure for a real-time edge computer vision product, focusing on scalable systems and robust APIs.

Vast

Senior Software Engineer, Backend

Long Beach, CA · On-site

They are seeking a Senior Software Engineer, Backend to support the development of systems required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations by designing and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackend Software Engineer JobsBackend Software Engineer Jobs in California

Backend Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$59.7K

$145.7K

$196.4K

How much do backend software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for backend software engineer in California is $145,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,400.00 and $169,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a backend software engineer do?

A backend software engineer designs, develops, and maintains the server-side components of applications, including databases, APIs, and server logic. They work with programming languages like Java, Python, or Node.js and often use tools such as version control systems and cloud platforms to ensure scalable and secure systems.

What are some typical challenges a Backend Software Engineer faces when integrating new services into an existing system?

Backend Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new services and legacy systems, maintaining data integrity during migrations, and managing increased system complexity. Effective integration also requires thorough testing to prevent disruptions to existing functionalities and close collaboration with frontend engineers, DevOps, and QA teams. Proactively communicating across teams and adhering to clear documentation standards can help mitigate integration risks and ensure a smoother deployment process.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A senior or specialized backend software engineer at large tech companies or in high-demand industries can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills in programming and system architecture, and working in competitive markets or leadership roles.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior backend software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like distributed systems or cloud computing, and often working at large tech companies or in high-demand industries can earn $300,000 or more annually. Compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in competitive markets or executive-level roles.

Can you make $500,000 as a software engineer?

Backend software engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, primarily through high-level positions, senior roles, or in high-cost-of-living areas, often supplemented by bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, and working at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

What is the difference between Backend Software Engineer vs Frontend Software Engineer?

AspectBackend Software EngineerFrontend Software Engineer
Primary FocusServer-side development, databases, APIsClient-side development, UI/UX, visual elements
Required SkillsProgramming languages like Java, Python, SQL; server managementHTML, CSS, JavaScript, frameworks like React or Angular
Work EnvironmentBackend teams, server infrastructure, cloud servicesDesign teams, user interface, web browsers
Common UsageBuilding and maintaining server logic and databasesCreating interactive and visually appealing web pages

While both roles involve web development, Backend Software Engineers focus on server-side logic and data management, whereas Frontend Software Engineers specialize in creating the visual and interactive aspects of websites. Both roles are essential in full-stack development and often collaborate closely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Backend Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backend Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or Node.js, a solid understanding of data structures, algorithms, and experience with database management, usually supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with tools such as Git, RESTful APIs, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), and frameworks like Spring or Django is highly valued, and relevant certifications can be advantageous. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities are essential to build, maintain, and optimize robust, scalable server-side applications that meet user and business needs.
What are popular job titles related to Backend Software Engineer jobs in California? For Backend Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backend Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Backend Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Backend Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Backend Software Engineer job openings:
Backend Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backend Software Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,728 per year, or $70.1 per hour.
Backend Software Engineer

Backend Software Engineer

TabaPay

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Who We Are
The world is moving towards instant digital payments and TabaPay is leading the way. We help thousands of Fintechs in the US and Canada instantly move money in and out of accounts and we are actively expanding into other countries. Our customers represent the hottest verticals in the financial service industry such as neobanks, challenger brokers, gaming and wallets. TabaPay is a highly profitable rocketship that processes billions of dollars each year. To learn more visit www.tabapay.com.
Who You Are
As a Software Engineer for TabaPay, you love jumping into to complex programming projects and delivering top notch code to fuel enhanced client solutions. You are enthusiastic about creating innovative payment solutions and optimizing designs. When it comes to work ethic, you are hands on, self-motivated, and a strong team player. You love seeing your work build the foundation for new market solutions.
What We're Looking For
TabaPay is looking for an experienced engineer to design and build new instant payment solutions, as well as improve our core technology. We are looking for an individual contributor who wants to code 90% of the time. If you are a top-notch programmer, enthusiastic team player and strong communicator, we want to hear from you.
What You'll Do
Working closely with TabaPay's product and engineering teams in a fast-paced dynamic environment to research, develop, integrate and optimize innovative payment solutions.
  • Engineer solutions that lead to high performing and customer-centric products
  • Perform as an outstanding team player, and offer technical guidance as needed
  • Program new and update existing payment features utilizing Python
  • Brainstorm technical solutions to support concept/feasibility stage for new products
  • Collaborate with product on creating detailed requirements
  • Apply technical expertise to continually improve new and existing solutions
  • Assist the support engineer in troubleshooting customer issues as needed

Requirements
Ideal Background
  • Successful track record of software development, delivering client-facing solutions
  • Proven ability to translate high level product requirements into detailed specifications
  • Capable of working in a fast paced, dynamic environment
  • Strong communication skills with a proven ability to work collaboratively with teams
  • Skilled at managing multiple tasks at once and adapting to changes quickly
  • Experience with the Scrum Agile development lifecycle process preferred

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science
  • 5+ years of experience in back-end software engineering
  • Wants to code 90% of the time as an individual contributor

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in Computer Science
  • Experience in the payments industry
  • Experience coding in Python
  • Experience with SQL
  • Experience/knowledge of basic shell

This role is located in Palo Alto, California - 5x a week in office.
The pay range for this position is $140,000; however, base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered.
Benefits
TabaPay offers the following benefits:
  • 100% employer-paid health care insurance including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance (for employee only)
  • Employer 401K Matching
  • Generous and Flexible PTO

EEO Employer: TabaPay is an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or any other protected classification.

Apply