Backend Software Engineer (Python, Java)
About The Role
We are seeking a talented Staff Software Engineer to join our dynamic team dedicated to advancing Hopper’s technological capabilities, particularly in leveraging artificial intelligence to create scalable, efficient, and innovative travel commerce solutions. In this role, you will be instrumental in designing and implementing end-to-end features, primarily focusing on backend systems built with Scala and GCP services, while also utilizing AI tooling to accelerate development and improve system reliability. You will work closely with senior engineers, product managers, and business partners in a trust-based, low-process environment to identify opportunities for codebase improvements, architect scalable solutions, and drive technical decisions that align with our strategic objectives.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field
- Proficiency in Scala and experience with GCP services
- Strong understanding of distributed systems architecture and development
- Experience or willingness to learn other languages such as Go, Python, or Java
- Demonstrated ability to design scalable, reliable, and maintainable software solutions
- Experience with AI tooling, agents, and automation workflows in a development environment
- Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently in a low-process, high-autonomy environment
- Strong product thinking with a focus on customer experience and system quality
- Ability to articulate technical decisions, tradeoffs, and rationale clearly
- Prior experience working in fast-paced, innovative teams is preferred
Responsibilities
- Identify and implement improvements to the codebase to facilitate faster development cycles for both humans and AI agents
- Collaborate with senior engineers to develop and maintain scalable, robust backend systems
- Architect and implement foundational patterns that support efficient onboarding of new partner experiences
- Own the full lifecycle of features, from backend development to partner-facing interfaces, utilizing AI tooling as needed
- Drive technical decisions and contribute to product roadmaps by working closely with product managers and business stakeholders
- Design and implement scalable solutions that support growth and partner integrations within the HTS platform
- Develop and refine feedback loops and guardrails to ensure AI-assisted development remains productive and reliable
- Participate in code reviews, documentation, and knowledge sharing to foster a collaborative engineering culture
- Stay current with emerging AI technologies and incorporate best practices into development workflows
Benefits
- Competitive salary with pre-IPO equity packages
- Unlimited paid time off (PTO)
- Carrot Cash travel stipend
- Access to co-working spaces through FlexDesk and a work-from-home stipend
- Generous parental leave policies exceeding industry standards
- 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
- Disability and Life insurance coverage
- Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
- Flexible Spending Accounts (DCA/FSA) and 401(k) plan
- Dynamic, entrepreneurial culture promoting innovation and risk-taking
- Open communication channels with management and leadership
- Opportunity to make a significant impact within a small, agile team
Equal Opportunity
Hopper is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive environment. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating a workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their best. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to these factors.