Position SummaryThe Astera Institute is seeking a full-time software engineer to help build and scale The Stacks (https://thestacks.org), a new content platform designed to meaningfully improve how scientific, technical, and intellectual work is shared, discovered, and built upon. The ideal candidate is a highly capable, hands-on generalist who has built and maintained complex content platforms or large-scale web applications, and who is comfortable redesigning core systems as the product's identity evolves. Beyond technical skill, you should have strong architectural judgment, a user-centered mindset, and enthusiasm for building tools that accelerate knowledge-sharing.
This is a unique opportunity to shape a core piece of public digital infrastructure at the earliest stages. Successful candidates will be comfortable working in fast-moving environments, collaborating across multiple teams, and making thoughtful architectural decisions that support long-term growth. Open-source experience and enthusiasm are a major plus.
Key Responsibilities- Contribute to the development and maintenance of The Stacks-including backend services, frontend interfaces, data models, and integrations.
- Implement high-quality user-facing interfaces and experiences using modern web technologies.
- Assist in building APIs and services for content-management
- Work closely with team members to develop features and iterate rapidly based on feedback.
- Help manage cloud infrastructure, ensuring high availability, observability, and smooth development workflows.
- Maintain high-quality engineering practices including version control, testing, documentation, and CI/CD workflows.
- Provide ongoing support and improvements post-launch, including bug fixes, feature development, and performance optimization.
- Contribute to open-source components of The Stacks when appropriate.
- Collaborate with related internal teams across Astera's connected programs and external partners as needed.
Qualifications and Experience- BA/BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or equivalent experience.
- 2-3+ years experience building and maintaining software systems.
- Interest in working with content-heavy or knowledge-based platforms, and tackling problems related to:
- publishing systems
- large documentation or archival sites
- user-generated content
- Strong engineering fundamentals and problem-solving skills
- Experience with some modern backend and frontend technologies (e.g., TypeScript, React, Node.js, Express.js/Hono, SQL databases, Prisma/Drizzle, etc.)-specific technologies matter less than your ability to learn and adapt.
- Ability to move quickly in environments with evolving requirements, ambiguity, and rapid iteration cycles.
- Highly adaptable and comfortable working across disciplines.
LocationOn site at our office in Emeryville, CA. Some travel may be required from time-to-time for in-person collaboration and work.
CompensationThe posted salary range is based on location in the Bay Area. The successful candidate will receive a competitive compensation package, commensurate with their experience and location.
