Code Corsair (Backend Engineer)

About the role

This role is part of a new boarding party supporting the Department of Veteran Affairs focused on getting Veterans the benefits they earned faster and more efficiently.

Specifically targeting the following initiatives:

• Increasing the speed in which Veteran’s benefits claims are processed.
• Streamline digital processes and reduce complexity for end users.
• Incorporate innovative technologies that improve the overall performance of VA’s systems.
• Reduce bureaucracy and inefficiency wherever it is found.

What you'll do

• Ship It: Write code, solve problems, deliver results. If you are confident in your ability and skills, you can stop reading here and apply.
• • Design, build, and maintain backend services in Ruby, leveraging Sidekiq for background job processing, and ensure features are delivered with reliability and speed.
• Ship It: Own the design, build, and maintenance of backend services in Ruby (with Sidekiq) and ensure features are delivered reliably and on time.
• Data & Cache Magic: Work with Postgres for modeling and optimizing data, and use Redis for caching and job queues to keep systems fast and efficient.
• Bridge the Gap: Collaborate across teams to connect backend logic with user-facing features, integrate with some Java components, and deliver end-to-end solutions.
• Raise the Bar: Write maintainable, well-tested, and secure code. Contribute to code reviews, system design, and monitoring practices that keep production stable and scalable.
• Stop, Collaborate, and Listen: Work closely with data scientists, analysts, software engineers, and product managers to support business needs and ensure robust and scalable applications are available.
• End-to-End Development. API Integration. Database Management. Server Architecture. Performance Monitoring and Optimization: No explanation of these terms should be needed.
• Help the Crew: Collaborate with other developers, performing code reviews, and mentor team members. Contribute to documentation and knowledge sharing across the team.
• Problem Solving: Identify and resolve technical issues related to our backend systems.
• Staying Updated: Keep up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends in backend development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent experience)
• 5-7 years of professional backend engineering experience.
• Strong proficiency in Ruby, with experience using Sidekiq for background job processing.
• Solid experience with Postgres (data modeling, query optimization, migrations).
• Experience working with Redis for caching and job queues.
• Exposure to Java and ability to support legacy integrations when required.
• Familiarity with modern software development practices (CI/CD, Git, testing frameworks).
• Understanding of secure coding practices and experience working with compliance-sensitive projects a plus.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills—comfortable working in cross-functional teams.
• Must be able to obtain a Public Trust security clearance from the U.S. Government.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Unconventional and Dynamic: A willingness to challenge the status quo and think outside the box.
• Knowledgeable and Authoritative: Deep expertise in your field, balanced with humility.
• Experience with government, healthcare, or other compliance-driven projects.
• Salary range-$125-$130k