Openlayer, a YC S21 startup building a collaborative spatial data platform, is seeking a senior backend engineer. This role involves designing, developing, and maintaining core backend services and APIs for their platform, working with technologies like Python, Django, and PostgreSQL. The ideal candidate possesses strong backend development experience, a solid understanding of geospatial concepts and databases (PostGIS), and excellent communication skills. Experience with cloud infrastructure (AWS, GCP) and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) is also desired.
Openlayer, a startup specializing in developer tools and specifically focusing on streamlining the integration of third-party APIs into applications, is actively seeking a highly experienced Senior Backend Engineer to join their team. This role presents a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to the architecture and development of Openlayer's core platform.
The ideal candidate possesses a strong command of backend development principles and practices, with proficiency in Go (Golang) being highly desirable, though demonstrable expertise in other languages like Python, Java, or Node.js coupled with a willingness to learn Go will also be considered. They should have a proven track record of designing, building, and maintaining scalable and robust backend systems. Experience with distributed systems and microservices architectures is particularly valuable, given the distributed nature of Openlayer's platform.
This individual will be deeply involved in the ongoing evolution of Openlayer's API integration platform, taking ownership of key features and services. Responsibilities will encompass the entire software development lifecycle, from conceptualization and design through implementation, testing, deployment, and ongoing maintenance. This includes collaborating with the product and frontend engineering teams to ensure seamless integration and a cohesive user experience. Furthermore, the successful candidate will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of Openlayer's technology stack, influencing architectural decisions and implementing best practices for software development within the organization.
Openlayer, having participated in the Y Combinator Summer 2021 batch, is a fast-growing company offering a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment. The company emphasizes a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and development. While the specific compensation and benefits package are not explicitly detailed, the implication is that they are competitive and commensurate with experience, reflecting the company's commitment to attracting top-tier talent. This role is likely fully remote, allowing for flexibility and a geographically diverse team. In essence, Openlayer is seeking a driven and talented Senior Backend Engineer to join their mission of simplifying API integration and empowering developers to build exceptional applications.
Summary of Comments ( 0 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43204682
The Hacker News comments are sparse and mostly logistical. One commenter asks about the tech stack, to which an Openlayer representative replies that they use Python, Django, Postgres, and Redis, hosted on AWS. Another commenter inquires about remote work options, and Openlayer confirms they are a remote-first company. The remaining comments briefly touch upon the interview process and company culture. No particularly compelling or in-depth discussions emerge.
The Hacker News post titled "Openlayer (YC S21) is hiring a senior back end engineer" linking to a Y Combinator job posting has generated a modest discussion with a few noteworthy comments.
One commenter questions the high salary range ($170k - $230k) offered for a "Senior" Backend Engineer, expressing skepticism about the actual seniority expected given the advertised responsibilities, which they perceive as more aligned with a mid-level role. They also point out the seeming disconnect between requiring AWS experience while simultaneously mentioning the use of Google Cloud Platform (GCP). This commenter suggests the high salary might be a tactic to attract a broader range of applicants.
Another commenter echoes this sentiment, finding the listed requirements quite basic for a senior role commanding such a high salary. They also criticize the ambiguity in the job description, particularly regarding the mention of both AWS and GCP without clarifying the primary cloud platform used. This ambiguity, they argue, raises questions about the company's technical direction.
A separate commenter expresses interest in the position and inquires about the specific technologies used for the backend, highlighting the lack of such details in the original job posting. This emphasizes the need for more clarity in job descriptions to attract suitable candidates.
Finally, there's a brief exchange where a commenter asks about the company's tech stack and receives a response from someone claiming to be a founder, stating they primarily use Python, Go, and Node.js. This interaction provides some valuable information, although its veracity isn't independently verifiable.
In summary, the comments largely revolve around the perceived mismatch between the advertised seniority, salary, and listed requirements. Commenters also express concern about the ambiguity surrounding the cloud infrastructure used and the overall lack of detail regarding the tech stack in the initial job posting. While a purported founder chimed in to address some of these questions, the discussion highlights the importance of clear and comprehensive job descriptions, especially for attracting experienced technical talent.