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Staff Backend Software Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA

As a Software Engineer I, you will contribute to the design, development, and maintenance of backend services that power WHOOP's core product experiences, collaborating with cross-functional teams to ...

As a Software Engineer I, you will contribute to the design, development, and maintenance of backend services and APIs, working closely with cross-functional teams to deliver impactful solutions for ...

Senior Backend Software Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$135K - $177K/yr

As a Senior Backend Engineer, you will create reliable APIs that integrate Kensho's AI capabilities ... Responsibilities : • Design, develop, test, document, deploy, maintain, and improve software • ...

Senior Software Engineer

Waltham, MA · Hybrid

$132K - $174K/yr

As a Senior Backend Software Engineer on the Growth team , you'll be at the forefront of building and scaling ZoomInfo's core backend services. You'll work primarily with Java to develop robust, high ...

Showing results 41-60

Staff Backend Software Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$65.7K

$160.4K

$216.2K

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for staff backend software engineer in Boston, MA is $160,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,700.00 and $186,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a staff backend software engineer?

Staff Backend Software Engineers are senior-level engineers who design, build, and maintain the server-side infrastructure of applications. They are responsible for ensuring systems are scalable, reliable, and performant, often acting as technical leaders within their teams. In addition to coding, they mentor other engineers, make architectural decisions, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects. Their expertise is critical in shaping the technical strategy and long-term vision of backend systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a staff backend software engineer?

To thrive as a Staff Backend Software Engineer, you need deep expertise in server-side programming languages (such as Java, Python, or Go), system architecture, and scalable API design, typically with a computer science degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with databases (SQL/NoSQL), cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, or Azure), CI/CD tools, and often advanced knowledge of containerization or microservices are essential. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and effective communication skills help you drive technical direction and mentor junior engineers. These skills are crucial for building robust backend systems, ensuring team alignment, and delivering reliable, high-performance products.

How does a staff backend software engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams on large-scale projects?

As a Staff Backend Software Engineer, you will frequently collaborate with product managers, frontend engineers, DevOps, and QA teams to define technical requirements and align backend solutions with overall business goals. You’ll often lead technical discussions, provide architectural guidance, and mentor other engineers, ensuring that backend systems integrate smoothly with other components. This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to translate complex technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders, fostering effective teamwork and project success.

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

AspectStaff Backend Software EngineerBackend Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master’s in CS or related field; extensive experienceBachelor's in CS or related field; 1-3 years experience
Work EnvironmentSenior-level projects, system architecture, mentorshipDevelopment, coding, feature implementation
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, large enterprisesSame as Staff, common in tech industry
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding seniority, responsibilities, career pathEntry to mid-level development roles

The main difference between a Staff Backend Software Engineer and a Backend Software Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and scope. Staff Engineers typically handle complex system design, mentorship, and strategic planning, while Backend Engineers focus on coding, feature development, and smaller project components. Both roles are common in tech companies, but Staff Engineers are more senior and involved in architecture and leadership.

What are popular job titles related to Staff Backend Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA?

For Staff Backend Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Staff Backend Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Staff Backend Software Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:

Infographic showing various Staff Backend Software Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $160,420 per year, or $77.1 per hour.

Software Engineer (Backend / System Integration)

Valiant-Harbor-International,-LL

Bedford, MA • On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Valiant Harbor International is a CVE Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business that specializes in technical, programmatic, acquisition, compliance, and financial services for Government science and technology, research and development, and technological programs. At Valiant Harbor International, we help federal agencies solve complex technical challenges by delivering practical, mission-focused solutions.

Job Description

Valiant Harbor International is seeking a Full-Stack Software Engineer to support advanced U.S. Air Force programs at Hanscom AFB providing expert support in developing secure backend services, APIs, enterprise integrations, and software deployed within Linux-based environments. As a member of a highly technical team, you'll collaborate directly with Air Force engineers and stakeholders to build mission-critical software that integrates complex systems, processes data securely, and supports operational capabilities across government environments. This is a full-time position in a hybrid work environment.

What You’ll Do

If you enjoy discovering challenging software solutions that has real-world mission impact, this opportunity is right for you.

  • Design, develop, and maintain secure backend software applications and services using Java.
  • Build scalable REST APIs, enterprise integrations, and database-driven applications.
  • Develop software to support reliable communication between multiple systems and data sources.
  • Develop software that operates within Linux/Unix environments and supports deployment in secure government networks.
  • Collaborate directly with Air Force stakeholders to translate mission needs into technical solutions.
  • Develop clean, maintainable, and well-tested code following modern software engineering best practices.
  • Participate in code reviews and contribute to technical design discussions.
  • Troubleshoot complex backend, integration, and performance issues across distributed systems.
  • Support secure software development and DevSecOps practices throughout the software lifecycle.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of shared libraries, development tools, and engineering processes.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies and recommend new tools and approaches that improve system performance, security, and maintainability.
Technology Environment
  • Java
  • Linux/Unix
  • REST APIs
  • Enterprise System Integration
  • SQL Databases
  • Git
  • XML
  • Secure Software Development
  • DevSecOps Practices and CI/CD
  • Modern Software Architecture
  • Containerization (e.g., Docker/Kubernetes)
  • Cloud Technologies (desired)
Required Qualifications
  • Active Secret security clearance required at time of selection; the successful candidate must be able and willing to obtain/maintain a Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility after selection.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related STEM discipline.
  • 7–10 years of professional software engineering experience.
  • Full-stack experience required with deep backend engineering expertise designing and developing secure backend software applications, APIs, and enterprise integrations.
  • Experience integrating multiple software systems, services, or data sources within enterprise or mission-critical environments.
  • Experience with multiple languages in various environments. Must have Java software language experience working within the Linux/Unix environments.
  • Experience with containerization, CI/CD pipelines, cloud technologies, modern Java frameworks, or enterprise integration technologies is preferred.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Willingness to travel as required.
Desired / Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting Department of Defense or Intelligence Community programs.
  • Familiarity with SIPRNet and JWICS environments.
  • Experience designing software architecture and technical roadmaps.
  • Experience supporting Agile software development teams.
  • Former military service or prior experience supporting DoD customers.
Security Clearance

Active Secret clearance required prior to selection. Selected candidate must be eligible to obtain a Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.

Salary

Competitive and commensurate with experience.

Why Join Valiant Harbor?

At Valiant Harbor International, you'll work alongside experienced professionals supporting some of the nation's most important technology initiatives. As a growing small business, our engineers make meaningful technical contributions, work directly with customers, influence solution design, and solve challenging engineering problems with real-world mission impact.

EEO Statement

Valiant Harbor International, LLC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Valiant Harbor International prohibits discrimination with respect to the hiring or promotion of individuals, conditions of employment, disciplinary and discharge practices, or any other aspect of employment on the basis of sex, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected class. If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact (202) 417-6705 for assistance.

This is a full time position.

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