Are you an aspiring Software Engineer I looking to build scalable systems that make a real difference in financial access? At Upstart—the leading AI lending marketplace—you’ll join a team revolutionizing how banks and credit unions offer affordable credit. As a Software Engineer I, you’ll develop and optimize backend and full-stack solutions using technologies like Kotlin, Ruby, and React. This is your opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven company that uses AI to create fairer, more efficient lending experiences for millions of people across the United States.
Why You’ll Love Being a Software Engineer I at Upstart
As a Software Engineer I, you’ll work on the Consumer Platform team—the foundation behind personalized, data-driven experiences for every Upstart user. You’ll collaborate with experienced engineers and product teams to build scalable backend services and engaging front-end components. From day one, you’ll gain hands-on experience in debugging, testing, and deploying high-quality software that powers real-world financial solutions.
At Upstart, we believe in innovation, inclusion, and growth. Our digital-first approach allows you to work remotely while still being part of a collaborative, high-impact engineering community.
Your Impact as a Software Engineer I
-
Build scalable features: Design and develop reliable backend components in Kotlin and Ruby to support internal teams.
-
Contribute to full-stack projects: Ship React/Next.js front-end features alongside backend services for seamless functionality.
-
Ensure code quality: Write, test, document, and review code to maintain performance and reliability.
-
Support operations: Debug production issues, follow established runbooks, and participate in on-call rotations with mentorship.
-
Drive improvement: Suggest enhancements to developer workflows, improve logging, and ensure data accuracy.
-
Collaborate effectively: Communicate clearly with team members, share progress, and seek feedback during development cycles.
Skills and Qualifications for the Software Engineer I Role
Minimum Requirements:
-
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
-
Up to 4 years of professional software development experience, including internships.
-
Proficiency in at least one backend language: Kotlin, Java, or Ruby.
-
Familiarity with modern frontend frameworks such as React or Next.js.
-
Understanding of SQL databases, schema design, and domain modeling.
-
Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate in cross-functional teams.
Preferred Qualifications:
-
Internship or bootcamp experience at a tech or software company.
-
Exposure to AWS, Kafka, or other cloud-native and messaging technologies.
-
Knowledge of API design, microservices, and automated testing frameworks.
-
Experience with CI/CD pipelines and platform engineering tools.
-
Demonstrated ownership of small-scale projects from planning to deployment.
What You’ll Gain as a Software Engineer I
-
Opportunity to work remotely across the U.S. with quarterly in-person collaboration sessions (expenses covered).
-
Experience in a mission-driven company using AI to make credit access more inclusive.
-
Mentorship from experienced engineers and room to take ownership as you grow.
-
Collaborative work culture built around diversity, innovation, and impact.
Compensation and Benefits
-
Base Salary: $113,800–$157,500 USD (depending on location and experience).
-
Competitive compensation with bonus and equity options.
-
Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, vision) and HSA contributions.
-
401(k) with 100% company match up to $4,500, immediate vesting, and after-tax savings.
-
Paid parental, family care, and military leave programs.
-
Annual wellness, technology, and ergonomic reimbursements.
-
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).
-
Generous paid holidays, vacation, sick, and safety leave.
-
Engaging company culture with ERGs, events, and team-building activities.
Upstart is an Equal Opportunity Employer that celebrates diversity and inclusion at every level. We believe better credit access starts with better opportunities—for everyone.