Founding Design Engineer ($140k-$180k + Equity) at Nero

Job Title: Founding Design Engineer

About the role

Nero is a $1.5M Seed-funded startup backed by Yamaha Music Innovation Fund and Antler, building monetization infrastructure for creators on platforms like Twitch and TikTok. Already profitable with 600k monthly users and over $500k in monthly GMV, Nero is reshaping how artists earn through live, interactive engagement.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end design and implementation of new features, ensuring the product's look and feel matches its high-stakes functional requirements.
• Architect and build full-stack systems using TypeScript, React, and Node.js, including real-time state management for high-concurrency livestreaming queues.
• Collaborate on technical and visual strategy, leveraging AI-assisted development tools to move from concept to shipped product with extreme velocity.

Requirements

• Possesses at least 1 year of professional experience with a strong portfolio showcasing high-fidelity frontend work and solid full-stack logic.
• Expert-level proficiency in TypeScript, React, and Node.js, combined with a "design-first" mindset and experience with AI tools like Cursor or Windsurf.
• Demonstrates a high-ownership mentality, a passion for the creator economy, and a willingness to work in-person in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of web technologies and software development best practices.
• Experience with real-time data handling and scalable architectures.
• Knowledge of database design and optimization techniques.

Skills

• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $140k-$180k plus equity.
• Opportunity to work with a high-performing, experienced team in a fast-growing startup.
• Significant equity stake (up to 1%) based on performance.
• Flexible work schedule and remote options.

Schedule

• Full-time position based in San Francisco, USA.

Pay

• $140k-$180k base salary with equity compensation.