Staff Software Engineer

About Us

observIQ is a software startup developing the first observability pipeline built for OpenTelemetry. We're building powerful open-source solutions used by Fortune 500 companies and small technology companies alike. We are looking for a Staff Software Engineer to join our team and take on a leadership role in the development of scalable, cutting-edge software solutions that serve a diverse customer base.

Role Overview

As a Staff Software Engineer, you will be responsible for leading the design, development, and implementation of complex software systems. You will work on a variety of products both web-based and local applications in technologies such as Node.js, Go, Java, Google Cloud, and Kubernetes. You will be responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and improving feature sets in a full-stack environment, including microservices in Node.js/Typescript, front-ends in Rails/React, and various backends like Elasticsearch. Our applications are deployed on the Google Cloud Platform with Kubernetes, and you will work with many flavors of Linux, Unix, and Windows.

You will work closely with cross-functional teams to architect and build high-performance, scalable applications that solve critical business needs. Your deep technical expertise will allow you to make high-impact decisions regarding architecture, code quality, and engineering best practices, while mentoring junior engineers and driving technical excellence across the team.

We’re looking for a seasoned engineer with a passion for tackling tough challenges, writing clean, efficient code, and mentoring others in a collaborative, fast-paced startup environment. If you're excited to be hands-on with the latest technologies while shaping the technical direction of our platform, this role is for you.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of scalable, high-performance software systems.
• Collaborate with product managers, DevOps, and UX/UI teams to define technical requirements and create solutions that meet customer needs.
• Architect and build services, APIs, and other backend components using technologies such as Node.js, Go, and Typescript.
• Ensure code quality and software reliability through best practices like code reviews, automated testing, and continuous integration.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning.
• Drive architectural decisions that scale with our business and meet performance, reliability, and security standards.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and recommend their adoption where appropriate to enhance the product.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Senior or Staff Software Engineer, with expertise in backend development (required).
• Strong proficiency with programming languages like Node.js, Go, Typescript, and experience with modern web stacks (required).
• Experience with cloud platforms (Google Cloud, AWS, or Azure), architecture, and containerization tools (required).
• Expertise in designing, building, and deploying scalable and reliable distributed systems (required).
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team (required).
• Strong mentoring and leadership skills, with a track record of developing and guiding engineering talent (required).
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (preferred).

Key Functions

• Lead the development and delivery of complex software systems that meet business objectives.
• Mentor and coach team members to help them grow technically and professionally.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality software solutions.
• Drive architectural decisions, ensuring scalability, performance, and security.
• Participate in code reviews, technical discussions, and product planning sessions.

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance coverage
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning

Location: Grand Rapids, MI (Hybrid - initial on-site work required for 3 to 6 months before transitioning to a hybrid model)

If you’re an experienced software engineer who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced startup environment and wants to play a critical role in shaping our technology stack, apply today!