Software Engineer, Backend at Pika

About the Role We're looking for a versatile Backend Engineer to help shape the core infrastructure that powers Pika’s creative tools. You’ll play a key role in building robust backend systems, owning product logic, and supporting everything from internal tools to customer-facing features. If you enjoy solving hard technical problems, thrive in fast-paced environments, and love wearing multiple hats — this role is for you. What You’ll Do - Architect and build scalable backend services to power our web and mobile products - Own backend logic end-to-end — from database modeling to API design and infrastructure decisions - Support internal tooling and operational automation to improve team workflows - Work closely with frontend engineers, product managers, and designers to build features that users love - Debug, optimize, and future-proof our systems for scale and reliability - Stay up to date with backend technologies and propose new approaches where appropriate What We’re Looking For - Broad engineering experience, with a strong portfolio of production-ready backend and/or full-stack projects - Proficiency in modern backend technologies (e.g., Node.js, Python, Go, etc.) and frameworks (e.g., Express, FastAPI) - Strong understanding of database design and operations (SQL, NoSQL, data modeling, performance tuning) - Experience with APIs, cloud infrastructure (e.g., AWS, GCP), and CI/CD workflows - Comfort building internal tools or automation pipelines in service of product and team productivity - Ability to thrive in a fast-moving, collaborative environment - Clear communication skills and a team-first mindset About Pika At Pika, we’re crafting a future where video creation is seamless, intuitive, and universally accessible. Our vision is set on a world where videos transcend entertainment, serving as a canvas for everyone's unique expression. Harnessing AI's transformative power, we aim to dismantle the technical barriers that have traditionally made video production an exclusive field. It’s about building the best technology that upholds the power of creativity—not just within our products but as an integral part of our culture. We’re a small team of energetic, smart and curious individuals. We value efficiency, collaboration, and creativity. We seek new team members who bring sharp intellect, a strong work ethic, and the ambition to make an impact. Here, you'll find significant room for career advancement, supported by a culture that nurtures both individual and collective development. Our headquarters is based in Palo Alto, CA, and we work from the office 5 days a week.