Upstart is currently seeking a Principal Software Engineer to join their team focused on developing a new product aimed at improving access to affordable credit. With a mission centered around making credit more accessible using their cutting-edge AI technologies, Upstart operates as a leading marketplace for banks and credit unions. The position is remote, allowing candidates to work from anywhere in the United States, with some collaborative opportunities in their physical offices in San Mateo, Columbus, Austin, and an upcoming office in New York City.
Company Overview
As a digital-first company, Upstart leverages AI to enhance the lending experience, enabling banks and credit unions to achieve higher approval rates with reduced losses among diverse demographic groups. This innovative approach ensures borrowers can often receive approval instantly, without the burden of extensive documentation. Upstart's engineering environment resembles that of a startup, emphasizing autonomy and rapid movement within a small, senior-oriented team. Their goal is to expand access to responsible credit while redefining efficient engineering practices.
Job Responsibilities
The Principal Software Engineer will take on significant responsibilities, which include:
Setting the technical direction for backend systems that power a new consumer credit product.
Building distributed and event-driven services that are reliable, observable, and scalable, devised for longevity and future evolution.
Driving product development from the ground up, collaborating with cross-functional teams to translate vague product goals into impactful solutions.
Enhancing engineering efficiency and quality by shaping practices and tools across the entire stack.
Utilizing an AI-native mindset to leverage and integrate AI tools for improved workflows, reducing friction, and accelerating outcomes.
Serving as a technical mentor and thought leader, fostering a culture of excellence within a fast-paced and high-performing team.
Influencing product development through insightful technical input, understanding user needs, and adeptly navigating trade-offs between speed, scale, and quality.
Minimum Qualifications
To be successful in this role, candidates must possess:
A minimum of 8 years of experience working with backend systems in production, particularly with a focus on applications at a consumer scale.
Expertise in distributed systems and event-driven architectures using technologies such as Kafka, Kinesis, and SQS, particularly with an understanding of fault tolerance, retries, and idempotency.
Strong proficiency in at least one object-oriented programming language (Java, Kotlin, C#, Python, Ruby), alongside experience in working with APIs, databases, and caching systems.
A proven track record of leading complex product development projects in rapidly changing environments.
Demonstrated capability in shaping product strategy through technical leadership and a focus on user-centric solutions.
Experience with operational excellence in product design, emphasizing observability via metrics, logs, traces, and alerts.
Familiarity with the active use of AI tools is considered essential, along with the vision of how AI can reshape software development.
Preferred Qualifications
While not required, the following credentials will provide candidates with a competitive edge:
Background in fintech, particularly in leading technical initiatives at B2C companies or high-scale consumer technology firms.
Experience within the realm of payments, credits, or similar transactional systems that require high reliability and adherence to regulatory standards.
Familiarity with schema management and safe data migrations in distributed systems.
A history of establishing architectural directions and influencing engineering culture within rapidly growing environments.
An entrepreneurial mindset enabling candidates to operate autonomously and effectively manage the early stages of product development.
A passion for building products that enhance access and outcomes for underserved populations, coupled with an interest in AI-assisted systems.
Work Environment and Compensation
This role accommodates candidates across all U.S. time zones and does require some travel for quarterly on-site collaboration sessions, during which Upstart covers all related expenses.
In terms of compensation, Upstart offers a competitive pay structure that includes:
Anticipated base salary ranging from $186,100 to $257,500 USD, with variations based on geographic location and individual skills and experience.
Bonus opportunities and equity compensation as an integral part of the employee benefits package.
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, including HSA contributions.
A generous 401(k) plan that matches $2 for every $1 contributed, up to $15,000 annually.
Life and disability insurance, as well as a variety of leave options including parental and military leave.
Access to annual wellness programs, technology reimbursements, and team-building activities.
Closing Remarks
Upstart is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace. They encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and prioritize fair hiring practices. Candidates seeking to apply must consider the potential for impactful, innovative work aimed at transforming the future of credit access, while enjoying the perks of remote work and a supportive company culture. If you feel you meet the qualifications and are passionate about joining a transformative organization, Upstart welcomes your application!
This job offer summary has been generated using automated technology. While we strive for accuracy, it may not always fully capture the nuances and details of the original job posting. We recommend reviewing the complete job listing before making any decisions or applications.
