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Software Development Engineer Backend Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Medium

$160 - $230/hr

What You Need: * 7-10+ years in software engineering. * Highly Proficient in C#/.NET, Javascript and Typescript (This role is 80% backend and 20% frontend) * .Net WebAPI development. * Solid, hands ...

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FastTek

Back-end Software Development Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$46.50 - $60.25/hr

Back-end Software Development Engineer #1056817 * Employees in this job function develop and maintain the back-end/ server-side parts of an application, typically consisting of APIs, databases and ...

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Software Development Engineer Backend information

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$60.5K

$147.7K

$199K

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for software development engineer backend in the United States is $147,662.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,000.00 and $172,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a software development engineer backend do?

A Software Development Engineer Backend is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the server-side components of web applications or software systems. They work on databases, APIs, and the logic that powers applications, ensuring high performance and scalability. These engineers collaborate closely with frontend developers and other team members to deliver robust, secure, and efficient solutions. Their role often involves troubleshooting, optimizing code, and implementing new features to meet user and business needs.

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

To thrive as a Software Development Engineer Backend, you need a strong command of programming languages such as Java, Python, or Node.js, and a solid understanding of algorithms, data structures, and software architecture, typically supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with databases (SQL/NoSQL), RESTful APIs, version control systems like Git, and experience with cloud platforms or containerization tools is highly valued. Problem-solving ability, effective communication, and adaptability are essential soft skills that help you collaborate and tackle complex challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for building robust, scalable, and maintainable backend systems that power modern applications.

What are some common challenges that software development engineer backend professionals face during cross-functional projects?

Backend engineers often work closely with frontend developers, product managers, and QA teams, which can present challenges related to clear communication and aligning technical requirements with business goals. Ensuring smooth integration between backend services and other system components, handling dependencies, and maintaining consistent API contracts are typical pain points. Proactively participating in planning sessions and code reviews, as well as documenting APIs thoroughly, helps mitigate these challenges and fosters more effective collaboration.

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

AspectSoftware Development Engineer BackendSoftware Engineer
Primary FocusBackend system development, server-side logic, database integrationFull-stack development, including frontend and backend
Required SkillsProgramming languages like Java, Python, C++, database management, API developmentFrontend frameworks, backend skills, UI/UX design
Work EnvironmentPrimarily backend teams, server infrastructure, cloud servicesCross-functional teams, both frontend and backend projects
Common UsageUsed in companies focusing on scalable backend systems and APIsUsed in roles requiring full-stack development or versatile software skills

While both roles involve software development, a Software Development Engineer Backend specializes in server-side logic, databases, and APIs, focusing on backend infrastructure. A Software Engineer may work across the full stack, including frontend and backend tasks. The choice depends on your interest in backend systems versus full-stack development.

More about Software Development Engineer Backend jobs

What job categories do people searching Software Development Engineer Backend jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Development Engineer Backend jobs are:

Software Development Engineer Backend jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Development Engineer Backend job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,662 per year, or $71 per hour.

Senior Software Development Engineer - Backend

United Talent Agency

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$132K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

United Talent Agency rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Summary:
United Talent Agency (UTA) is a leading global entertainment company that represents iconic artists and creators. They are seeking a Senior Software Development Engineer - Backend to drive the design, development, and scalability of backend systems for UTA’s digital platforms, providing technical leadership and mentoring while collaborating with cross-functional teams.
Responsibilities:
• Lead the architecture and development of backend services using Node.js, GraphQL, and modern frameworks, ensuring scalability, reliability, and maintainability
• Design and optimize data models across MongoDB and Postgres to support large-scale, high-availability applications
• Drive API strategy, creating GraphQL and RESTful APIs that ensure secure, efficient, and intuitive integration between systems
• Architect and optimize search systems leveraging Algolia to deliver fast, relevant, and reliable search experiences
• Implement and oversee cloud infrastructure using Azure, Kubernetes, and Terraform, ensuring deployments are automated, resilient, and cost-efficient
• Lead incident response and root cause analysis, driving long-term solutions that improve system reliability
• Champion engineering excellence by establishing coding standards, code review practices, and test automation frameworks
• Mentor and guide junior and mid-level engineers, providing technical direction, feedback, and career development support
• Partner with product managers, designers, and business leaders to align technical direction with strategic goals
• Evaluate and adopt emerging technologies, ensuring UTA stays ahead of industry trends in backend development, cloud, and API management
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field; or equivalent experience
• 8+ years of professional software engineering experience, with at least 3+ years in a senior or staff-level backend role
• Proven expertise in Node.js, GraphQL, MongoDB, Postgres, and search platforms (Algolia or equivalent)
• Strong track record of architecting distributed systems and microservices that scale to high volumes
• Hands-on experience with AWS cloud services, Kubernetes, Infrastructure as Code (Terraform), GitHub Actions (CI/CD), and API management platforms
• Deep understanding of system design, data modeling, performance optimization, and security best practices
• Experience leading teams through design reviews, code reviews, and technical strategy discussions
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, able to influence both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Ability to balance hands-on coding with technical leadership, driving both execution and long-term vision
Company:
United Talent Agency is a talent and literary agency representing actors, writers, directors, producers, recording artists and more. Founded in 1991, the company is headquartered in Beverly Hills, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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