Backend Engineer – APIs & Data Systems
Ampa · Palo Alto, CA, US
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- Location
- Palo Alto, CA, US
- Posted
Ampa is a pioneering neurotechnology startup developing brain stimulation technology to **help eradicate depression**. We will improve millions of lives by making this transformative treatment universally accessible. Joining us means you’ll be part of a rapidly growing startup with significant equity opportunities and a major impact on our future.
**What to Expect: **Working at Ampa is a rare chance to help transform global mental health and save millions of lives — a level of impact that demands deep commitment. Success here requires resilience, adaptability, and the discipline to put in long hours. If you thrive in a high-intensity, fast-changing environment and want your work to truly matter, you may do the best work of your life here.
**Role Overview:**
We’re looking for an exceptional **Backend Engineer to build the secure, scalable APIs and data systems that power our clinical platform and medical devices. You’ll take ownership of our backend architecture — from designing efficient data models to managing API integrations with our web, mobile, and embedded systems. You'll own core parts of our infrastructure — including REST and GraphQL APIs , PostgreSQL data models , and BI pipelines using AWS QuickSight**.
This is a high-ownership role for someone who loves building reliable systems that serve real-world users in clinical environments, where performance, security, and data integrity matter.
**Tech Stack:**
- **Languages:** Python, Node.js (TypeScript)
- **APIs:** REST, GraphQL
- **Database:** PostgreSQL (hosted on AWS RDS)
- **Cloud:** AWS (ECS, Lambda, EventBridge, S3)
**Key Responsibilities:**
- API Development: Build and maintain REST and GraphQL APIs for mobile, web, and device integration
- Database Engineering: Design scalable PostgreSQL schemas to handle clinical workflows, device telemetry, and audit trails
- Data Visibility: Build and support AWS QuickSight dashboards to track operational and clinical metrics
- ETL Pipelines: Create or manage data pipelines for aggregating patient session data and system logs
- Security & Compliance: Ensure data security, integrity, and auditability across all systems
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with product, ops, and clinical teams to translate real-world needs into backend systems
**What We’re Looking For:**
- **Mission Obsessed:** Passionate about eradicating depression.
- **Driven:** Highly motivated and resilient.
- **Effective:** Learns fast, adapts quickly, and consistently delivers results.
- **Backend Proficiency:** 5+ years building robust backend systems and APIs
- **Database Depth:** Extensive experience with PostgreSQL, particularly on AWS RDS (tuning, migrations, schema design)
- **BI Experience:** Familiarity with AWS QuickSight or other BI tools to surface key operational insights
- **API Design:** Expertise in building and maintaining REST and GraphQL APIs, with solid auth/versioning practices
**Why Join Ampa?**
- **Impact:** Lead the development of transformative mental health technologies.
- **Growth:** Thrive in a startup environment with rapid innovation.
- **Stability:** Enjoy startup benefits with a secure product line.
- **Ownership:** Receive substantial equity as an early team member.
**Logistics:**
- **Work Mode:** In-person
- **Locations:** Bay Area
- **Compensation:** $130K - $220K · 0.4% - 1% Equity
- **Employment:** Permanent
- **Visa Sponsorship:** Will sponsor TN visa or equivalent. No H1B.
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