Software Engineer, Backend

About 10a Labs: 10a Labs is an applied research and AI security company trusted by AI unicorns, Fortune 10 companies, and U.S. tech leaders. We combine proprietary technology, deep expertise, and multilingual threat intelligence to detect abuse at scale. We also deliver state-of-the-art red teaming across high-impact security and safety challenges.

In this role, you will: 

• Design and implement backend services and APIs that are secure, scalable, and maintainable, primarily using Python.
• Work closely with researchers, security engineers, and product teammates to bring AI-driven features from concept to production. 
• Apply best practices for authentication, authorization, encryption, and data protection throughout the stack. 
• Integrate and optimize advanced AI/ML models within backend architectures. 
• Monitor and improve performance, reliability, and resource efficiency to support growth. 
• Participate in code reviews, testing, and deployment processes to maintain high standards of quality and security. 

You might excel in this role if you:  

• Bring deep experience in cybersecurity, threat detection, or a related area. 
• Thrive in fast-moving, high-impact environments, such as startups, AI research labs, or security-focused teams.
• Enjoy tackling complex, ambiguous problems and can adapt quickly as priorities evolve.
• Take initiative, communicate openly, and consistently push yourself — and your team — to deliver exceptional results.
• Work effectively both independently and collaboratively, contributing to team goals while managing your own projects with initiative and accountability.

Qualifications:

• Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field — or equivalent professional experience. 
• 3+ years of hands-on backend development in production environments. 
• Proficiency in backend programming languages such as Python, Java, Kotlin, Node.js, or Go and experience building secure systems, APIs, and microservices.
• Strong understanding of security best practices, including authentication methods (OAuth, JWT), encryption, and secure API development; knowledge of common attack vectors (SQL injection, privilege escalation, DDoS) and effective mitigation strategies.
• Experience integrating and optimizing AI models (e.g., NLP, vision, multimodal systems) within backend services.
• Familiarity with SQL and NoSQL databases; experience with secure data management.
• Experience with cloud infrastructure (AWS, GCP) and secure deployment practices, including containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience effectively communicating complex engineering topics to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. 
• Familiarity with modern DevOps practices, including test automation, CI/CD pipelines, and infrastructure-as-code practices.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary Range: $105K–$125K, depending on experience and location
• Bonus: Performance-based annual bonus
• Professional Development: Support for conferences, continuing education, or leadership training
• Work Environment: Fully remote, U.S.-based
• Health Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• Time Off: Generous PTO and paid holiday schedule
• Retirement: 401(k) plan