Senior Software Engineer

Leonardo.Ai; Remote; NZD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A forward-thinking AI startup is seeking a Senior Backend Engineer to enhance its platform operations in Tauranga, New Zealand. The role involves designing scalable backend systems using Node.js and TypeScript, mentoring junior engineers, and collaborating across teams. Candidates should possess strong experience with Node.js, TypeScript, PostgreSQL, and cloud services like AWS. The company promotes an inclusive culture and offers flexible work arrangements to foster work-life balance.

Benefits

Reward package including equity

Inclusive parental leave policy with 18 weeks paid leave

Annual Vibe & Thrive allowance

Flexible leave options

Support with professional development

Fun company events

Qualifications

• Strong experience building backend systems using Node.js and TypeScript.
• Exposure to NestJS or similar frameworks is an asset.
• Experience working with relational databases like PostgreSQL.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop scalable backend systems using Node.js and TypeScript.
• Support real-time generation features and secure enterprise endpoints.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to team learning.

Skills

Node.js

TypeScript

PostgreSQL

NestJS

AWS

GCP

Azure

Great communication skills

Job description

At Leonardo.Ai, we’re on a mission to unleash the world’s creativity through cutting‑edge generative AI. We're an Australian startup building tools that reimagine how people design, create, and tell stories, and we’re just getting started. Over 30 million users worldwide use Leonardo to bring their ideas to life.

The Role:

We’re seeking a Senior Backend Engineer with experience in Node.js to join the team that shapes how our platform operates behind the scenes. From real‑time generation tools to enterprise integrations and growth experiments, you’ll work across the platform to build the systems that power Leonardo’s creative engine.

This role spans multiple product areas including our Generation Features, Enterprise, Growth, and Experience tribes, giving you the chance to solve meaningful problems at scale, in a company that moves fast but stays grounded in kindness and collaboration.

What You’ll Be Doing:

Build and ship with care: Design and develop scalable, performant backend systems using Node.js and TypeScript.

Power the platform: Support real‑time generation features, secure enterprise endpoints, and features that improve conversion and user experience.

Collaborate deeply: Work with engineers, designers, and product leads across squads to bring big ideas to life.

Share what you know: Mentor junior engineers and help shape how we learn, grow, and support each other.

Contribute to systems thinking: Help us build foundations that are reliable, maintainable, and ready to scale.

Stay curious: We’re always evolving. You’ll have space to explore new ideas and grow your craft.

Skills We Love:

• Strong experience building backend systems with Node.js and TypeScript
• Exposure to NestJS or similar frameworks
• Experience working with PostgreSQL or other relational databases
• Familiarity with cloud environments like AWS, GCP, or Azure
• Great communication skills and a collaborative mindset
• A mentoring spirit that enjoys lifting others and building thoughtful, inclusive systems

Our Culture:

Inclusive Culture: We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered. At Leonardo AI, your unique perspectives and experiences are welcomed and essential to our success.

Flexible Work Environment:

We understand the importance of work‑life balance. Enjoy the flexibility to work remotely or from our vibrant offices. We have employees all over Australia, ensuring you can thrive personally and professionally.

Empowering Growth:

Your development is our priority. We offer continuous learning opportunities and career growth tailored to your goals. You’ll be encouraged to grow and excel in your career at Leonardo AI.

Impactful Work:

Join us in shaping the future of AI. You'll work on innovative projects that have a meaningful impact, and your contributions will help drive advancements in AI creativity.

What's in it for you?

• Impact the future of AI
• Reward package including equity – we want our success to be yours too
• Inclusive parental leave policy that supports all parents & carers with 18 weeks paid leave
• An annual Vibe & Thrive allowance to support your wellbeing, social connection, office setup & more
• Flexible leave options that empower you to be a force for good, take time to recharge and supports you personally, including remote working abroad
• Support with your professional development
• Fun and engaging company events, both virtual and in‑person

Next Steps:

Ready to revolutionise AI research and empower creativity worldwide? Apply now and join us at Leonardo.Ai to make a significant impact! We're rapidly expanding and seeking passionate people in various AI roles.

Don't hesitate! Even if you don't meet every requirement, consider applying and join our innovative journey. We encourage you to apply and start the conversation whether you’re based locally in New Zealand or overseas.

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