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Senior Backend Developer Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

This role sits at the intersection of backend engineering and applied AI. The team is actively embedding AI capabilities into a flagship research platform, giving engineers the chance to work on ...

Senior Backend Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Kendall Square, Cambridge MA (On-Site) Compensation: $160,000 - $220,000 + bonus and equity About the role We are looking for a Senior Back End Engineer to join our team and take ownership of ...

The Senior Backend Software Engineer will design, develop, and maintain the platform's core infrastructure, ensuring scalability, security, and reliability while collaborating with cross-functional ...

Senior Backend Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$135K - $177K/yr

As a Senior Backend Engineer, you will create reliable APIs that integrate Kensho's AI capabilities into customer workflows, collaborating with various teams to ensure high-quality code delivery.

Senior Backend Engineer - AI Platform

Boston, MA ยท On-site +1

$133K - $175K/yr

Seattle, WA; and Portland, ME About the Team/Role We are seeking a seasoned Sr. Software Engineer ... Proficiency in backend development, with expertise in Java or C#, frameworks like SpringBoot ...

Senior Backend Engineer - AI Platform

Boston, MA ยท On-site +1

$133K - $175K/yr

Seattle, WA; and Portland, ME About the Team/Role We are seeking a seasoned Sr. Software Engineer ... Proficiency in backend development, with expertise in Java or C#, frameworks like SpringBoot ...

As a Senior Backend Engineer, you will develop reliable, secure, and performant APIs that apply Kensho's AI capabilities to specific customer workflows. You will collaborate with colleagues from ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Backend Developer information

See Massachusetts salary details

$69.9K

$152.7K

$208K

How much do senior backend developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior backend developer in Massachusetts is $152,721.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,600.00 and $170,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior backend developer do?

A Senior Backend Developer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the server-side logic of web applications. They work with databases, APIs, and server infrastructure to ensure that applications run smoothly, securely, and efficiently. In addition to writing robust code, they often mentor junior developers, contribute to architectural decisions, and collaborate with frontend teams to deliver seamless user experiences. Their expertise is crucial for scaling applications and implementing best practices in software development.

What is the difference between Senior Backend Developer vs Backend Developer?

AspectSenior Backend DeveloperBackend Developer
Required Experience5+ years, leadership skills1-3 years, foundational skills
ResponsibilitiesDesign architecture, mentor juniors, optimize systemsImplement features, fix bugs, write code
Skills & CertificationsAdvanced coding, system design, relevant certificationsBasic coding, database knowledge
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with cross-functional teams, often in larger projectsFocuses on individual tasks within projects

The main difference between a Senior Backend Developer and a Backend Developer lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership. Senior Backend Developers typically have more years of experience, take on complex system design, and mentor junior staff, whereas Backend Developers focus on implementing features and fixing bugs. Both roles are essential in backend development teams, but the senior role involves more strategic and leadership duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior backend developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Backend Developer, you need advanced proficiency in server-side programming languages (such as Java, Python, or Node.js), deep understanding of API design, and experience with database management, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), cloud platforms (such as AWS or Azure), and relevant certifications in backend technologies are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and leadership skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and mentor junior developers. These competencies ensure robust, scalable backend systems and drive successful project delivery in complex technical environments.

What are common challenges senior backend developers face when leading complex projects, and how can they address them?

Senior Backend Developers often encounter challenges such as integrating legacy systems with new technologies, ensuring scalability under increased load, and coordinating cross-functional teams for seamless feature delivery. Addressing these challenges typically involves proactive architectural planning, clear communication with frontend and DevOps teams, and adopting best practices like code reviews and automated testing. Staying updated on emerging technologies and fostering a culture of knowledge sharing within the team also help in overcoming technical obstacles and driving successful project outcomes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Developer jobs in Massachusetts? The most popular types of Backend Developer jobs in Massachusetts are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Backend Developer jobs in Massachusetts? For Senior Backend Developer jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Backend Developer jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Backend Developer jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Senior Backend Developer jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Senior Backend Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Backend Developer job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,721 per year, or $73.4 per hour.

Senior Backend Engineer

Motion Recruitment

Waltham, MA โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

This is a full-time opportunity with a rapidly growing software organization building advanced cloud-based platforms that support scientific research, data collaboration, and intelligent discovery workflows. The team is heavily invested in Java, AI/ML integrations, RESTful services, and scalable cloud architecture to power next-generation research tools used by scientists worldwide.


This role sits at the intersection of backend engineering and applied AI. The team is actively embedding AI capabilities into a flagship research platform, giving engineers the chance to work on meaningful problems that directly accelerate innovation in scientific discovery. Youโ€™ll collaborate with product, engineering, and data teams to design intelligent features, while gaining exposure to modern reactive frameworks, cloud scalability challenges, and performance-driven architecture. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who wants to deepen both their backend expertise and real-world AI implementation experience in a highly collaborative environment.


Required Skills & Experience
  • 3+ years of professional software engineering experience

  • 3+ years of hands-on experience building AI-driven or AI-integrated solutions

  • Strong experience with Java development

  • Experience designing and building RESTful web services

  • Experience working with relational databases in transactional systems

Desired Skills & Experience
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Computer Science or related discipline

  • Experience with reactive programming frameworks (Vert.x or similar)

  • Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and tools such as Jenkins or GitHub

  • Strong understanding of database performance tuning and query optimization

  • Experience working in Agile development environments

  • Ability to write clean, reusable, and well-tested code

  • Strong collaboration skills and sense of ownership

  • Exposure to scientific, research, or data-driven industries is a plus


What You Will Be Doing Tech Breakdown

60% Java / Backend Services
20% AI Feature Integration
10% Cloud & Performance Optimization
10% Collaboration & Code Quality

Daily Responsibilities

70% Hands On
10% Management Duties
20% Team Collaboration

The Offer

Bonus eligible

You will receive the following benefits:

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Vacation Time
Stock Options

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the US on a full-time basis now and in the future.