This role is ideal for a Senior Backend Engineer with 4+ years of experience building scalable services using Node.js, TypeScript, SQL, and REST APIs in cloud environments like AWS or Google Cloud. It suits someone who enjoys owning backend systems end-to-end, improving infrastructure reliability, and building high-quality APIs for fast-growing SaaS platforms. You should be comfortable monitoring production systems, collaborating on architecture decisions, and delivering clean, maintainable code in a startup environment.

1. How would you design a scalable backend architecture using Node.js and TypeScript for a platform processing real-time event leads?
   I would design a modular service-oriented architecture with clear API boundaries, scalable cloud infrastructure, and asynchronous processing for high-throughput tasks. Using stateless services and managed databases ensures the system can scale reliably.

2. How do you ensure backend APIs remain reliable and performant as traffic grows?
   I implement proper request validation, rate limiting, caching, and database optimization. Monitoring performance metrics and logs helps identify bottlenecks early and maintain system stability.

3. What best practices do you follow when designing RESTful APIs?
   I maintain consistent endpoint structures, proper HTTP status codes, clear versioning, and strong input validation. Well-documented APIs help ensure smooth collaboration with frontend and external integrations.

4. How do you monitor and troubleshoot production systems in cloud environments?
   I use logging, monitoring dashboards, and alerting systems to detect anomalies. When issues arise, I analyze logs and metrics to identify root causes and deploy fixes quickly.

5. How do you design database schemas for scalable applications using SQL?
   I focus on normalized schema design, proper indexing strategies, and query optimization based on real usage patterns. Regular performance analysis ensures the database scales with application demand.

6. How would you integrate third-party systems such as CRM platforms into a backend service?
   I design integration layers that handle authentication, error handling, and retries. Abstracting integrations keeps the core system flexible and easier to maintain.

7. What strategies do you use to maintain code quality in a fast-moving startup environment?
   I rely on code reviews, automated testing, clear documentation, and consistent coding standards. These practices help prevent regressions while maintaining development speed.

8. How do you approach building systems that process real-time data from events or conferences?
   I use event-driven architecture with queues or streaming systems to process data asynchronously. This approach improves reliability and prevents spikes from overwhelming services.

9. How do you collaborate effectively with other engineers when making infrastructure decisions?
   I evaluate trade-offs together with the team, document architectural decisions, and ensure solutions align with product and scalability requirements.

10. How do you balance speed and reliability when building backend systems in a startup environment?
    I focus on delivering practical solutions quickly while maintaining clean architecture and test coverage. Incremental improvements help maintain stability without slowing innovation.

Popl is redefining in-person go-to-market by turning real-world interactions at conferences and events into measurable pipeline through its AI-native lead capture and CRM automation platform. We’re hiring a Senior Backend Engineer (Remote, US) to design and scale core services using Node.js, TypeScript, AWS/GCP, SQL, and REST APIs while ensuring reliability, performance, and clean architecture. You’ll own backend systems end-to-end, collaborate on infrastructure decisions, and help build scalable software powering revenue teams worldwide. This full-time role offers $140K–$180K salary plus equity, strong benefits, and the chance to grow with a fast-moving startup shaping the future of event-driven sales technology.