Junior Backend Systems Engineer (Python/C++) (Hybrid)

Performix; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Performix in Chicago is seeking a detail-oriented Junior Systems Software Engineer. You will design, implement, and optimize low-level application architecture and networking protocols, focusing on performance-critical systems. A strong CS foundation with hands-on C++ and Python experience is essential.

You will develop and run comprehensive tests to validate state synchronization, trace memory leaks with debugging tools, and work across teams to deliver robust software on time.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or related technical discipline (GPA 3.5+ preferred).
• Strong proficiency in C++ and Python; familiarity with C, C#, Java, SQL, or x86 Assembly is a plus.
• Solid understanding of TCP/UDP networking principles, socket programming, caching mechanisms, OS concepts, and computer architecture.
• Hands-on experience with Linux/Bash, Git/GitHub, GDB, and Wireshark; SFML/Unity or VR/AR engines are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize low-level application architecture and networking components.
• Apply data structures and memory management to performance and indexing problems.
• Develop and run unit, integration, and stress tests for network state synchronization.
• Use GDB and Wireshark to trace memory leaks, packet flow, and multi-threaded execution paths.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to maintain clean, modular codebases and release integrity.

Skills

C++

Python

Networking

Algorithms

OS concepts

Education

Bachelor of Science in CS/CE

Tools

Linux/Bash

Git/GitHub

GDB

Wireshark

SFML/Unity

Job description

Contract | Performix | United States

Posted On 10/27/2026

Job Information

IT Services

Work Experience 5+ years

City Chicago

State/Province Illinois

60605

Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented, highly analytical Junior Systems Software Engineer to join our core engineering team. In this role, you will design, implement, and optimize low-level application architecture, networking protocols, and performance-critical systems. The ideal candidate brings a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals, hands-on experience with C++ and Python, and a passion for building responsive, scalable software.

Key Responsibilities

• Systems & Network Architecture: Design, implement, and maintain custom networking components, client-server models, and protocol resolvers (UDP/TCP, DNS, socket communications).
• Algorithm & Performance Optimization: Apply data structures, memory management, and graph search heuristics (e.g., A*, custom hashing, priority queues) to solve complex performance and indexing challenges.
• Testing & Quality Assurance: Develop and execute comprehensive unit, integration, and stress tests to validate network state synchronization, catch edge cases, and eliminate execution bottlenecks.
• Debugging & Problem Solving: Utilize low-level debugging tools (GDB, Wireshark) to trace memory leaks, analyze packet flow, and debug asynchronous multi-threaded or multi-client execution paths.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with cross-functional teams to design clean, modular codebases and maintain version control integrity across all release cycles.

Key Requirements

• Education: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline (GPA 3.5+ preferred).
• Core Languages: Strong proficiency inC++andPython. Familiarity with C, C#, Java, SQL, or x86 Assembly is a plus.
• Systems & Networking: Solid understanding of TCP/UDP networking principles, socket programming, caching mechanisms, operating systems, and computer architecture.
• Tools & Environment: Hands-on experience withLinux/Bash,Git/GitHub,GDB, andWireshark. Experience with SFML, Unity, or VR/AR engines is desirable.
• CS Fundamentals: Proven command of object-oriented design, algorithmic complexity, recursive problem-solving, and concurrent state management.

Desired Competencies

• Self-starter capable of managing end-to-end projects—from requirement mapping to comprehensive testing.
• Passion for interactive media, high-performance computing, or game engine mechanics.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and code reviews.