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Senior Backend Software Engineer Jobs in California

Senior Backend Software Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$131K - $173K/yr

We're looking for a Senior Backend Software Engineer to co-own our backend architecture and ensure the system is scalable, reliable, and production-ready. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys ...

Senior Backend Software Engineer

Irvine, CA

$131K - $173K/yr

We're looking for a Senior Backend Software Engineer to co-own our backend architecture and ensure the system is scalable, reliable, and production-ready. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys ...

Senior Backend Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

The Senior Backend Software Engineer will own features throughout their life cycle, improve existing services, and work in a cross-functional team to make impactful contributions to the product.

As a Senior Backend Software Engineer, you will design and scale core infrastructure for a real-time edge computer vision product, focusing on solving complex scaling problems and designing robust ...

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 ...

As a Senior Backend Software Engineer, you will design, develop, and deploy the critical infrastructure needed to support a range of industrial automation applications. In this role, you will partner ...

As a Senior Backend Software Engineer, you will design, develop, and deploy the critical infrastructure needed to support a range of industrial automation applications. In this role, you will partner ...

As a Senior Backend Software Engineer, you will design, develop, and deploy the critical infrastructure needed to support a range of industrial automation applications. In this role, you will partner ...

Designing a flexible and distributed electrical grid The Role We are seeking a Senior Backend Software Engineer to join our team building the cloud-based glue that gives our users access to the rich ...

Staff/Senior Backend Software Engineer* - Extremely Strong Node.js Engineer - Very Strong Many REST APIs based Development/Automation - Very Hard Working/Energetic/Dedicated - Excellent ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Backend Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$21.3K

$146.4K

$203.8K

How much do senior backend software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior backend software engineer in California is $146,416.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,500.00 and $169,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior backend software engineer?

Senior Backend Software Engineers are experienced professionals responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the server-side logic, databases, and APIs that power web and software applications. They work closely with front-end developers, product managers, and other team members to ensure robust, scalable, and secure systems. In addition to coding, they often mentor junior engineers, conduct code reviews, and help shape the architecture and technical direction of projects. Their expertise enables businesses to handle high volumes of data, users, and complex business logic efficiently.

How does a senior backend software engineer typically collaborate with frontend teams and other stakeholders during the development process?

Senior Backend Software Engineers frequently work closely with frontend developers, product managers, and sometimes UX designers to ensure seamless integration between server-side logic and user-facing features. This collaboration often involves participating in planning meetings, discussing API contracts, and reviewing architectural decisions to ensure scalability and performance. Clear communication and regular sync-ups are essential, as backend engineers need to translate business requirements into robust technical solutions while addressing any integration challenges that arise.

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

To thrive as a Senior Backend Software Engineer, you need advanced programming skills (such as Python, Java, or Go), a deep understanding of system architecture, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with databases, cloud platforms (like AWS or Azure), containerization tools (Docker, Kubernetes), and CI/CD pipelines is typically required, along with knowledge of best practices in API design and security. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, strong communication, and leadership skills help you effectively collaborate and mentor junior engineers. These competencies are crucial for building robust, scalable systems and ensuring the technical success of complex projects.

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

AspectSenior Backend Software EngineerBackend Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field; experience with cloud platformsBachelor's degree or equivalent; proficiency in backend languages
Work EnvironmentCollaborates on complex systems, mentors junior staffDevelops and maintains backend features, less mentorship
Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, startups, enterprise firmsWidely used across various industries, including e-commerce and SaaS
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched for career progression, senior rolesTypically searched for entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Senior Backend Software Engineer and a Backend Developer lies in experience, responsibilities, and scope. Senior engineers handle complex systems, mentor teams, and contribute to architecture, while backend developers focus on coding and maintaining backend features. Both roles require strong technical skills, but senior roles demand more leadership and strategic input.

What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Software Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Backend Software Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Senior Backend Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Senior Backend Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Backend Software Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,416 per year, or $70.4 per hour.

Senior Backend Software Engineer

GOODCONNEX INC

Irvine, CA • On-site

$131K - $173K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

About the Role

We’re building a mobile-first information platform and are approaching production launch. We’re looking for a Senior Backend Software Engineer to co-own our backend architecture and ensure the system is scalable, reliable, and production-ready.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys designing systems and running them in the real world — handling performance bottlenecks, debugging production issues, and improving reliability as usage grows.

You’ll work closely with a small team and have meaningful influence over architecture, infrastructure decisions, and engineering practices.

Company Description

GoodConnex is decentralized digital bulletin board helps you discover, offer, and exchange local services—without commissions, algorithms, or corporate middlemen getting in the way.