sherpa° is hiring a Backend Engineer, API Platform

sherpa° is looking for a Backend Engineer, API Platform to architect and build the API ecosystem that powers global travel for millions of passengers monthly. You will design robust, scalable APIs in a microservices environment that directly impacts travelers from 193 countries.

What You'll Do

• Design and maintain 15+ specialized APIs (Orders, Documents, Applications, Webhooks, Travellers, Products) serving millions of requests with consistent patterns and governance.
• Deploy APIs with Google Cloud Run, implement API gateways, manage service mesh communication, and ensure high availability across multi-region environments.
• Build resilient API integrations using Google Pub/Sub, design webhook systems, and implement real-time data synchronization between services.
• Implement comprehensive API authentication, rate limiting, API key management, and compliance systems for sensitive travel documents.
• Work with Google Cloud Gen AI APIs for document analysis and build machine learning API pipelines for travel requirement processing.
• Collaborate directly with product managers, frontend engineers, and designers to deliver API contracts that streamline visa applications for partners like American Airlines, Air Canada, and British Airways.
• Own API platform infrastructure, co-manage API gateways, authentication layers, rate limiting, monitoring, and API lifecycle management systems.
• Drive API design decisions, versioning strategies, and service integration approaches.
• Build performant, reliable API contracts that serve millions of users with consistent developer experience.
• Handle diverse tasks from API documentation to GCP infrastructure with Terraform, API monitoring to contract testing.

What We're Looking For

• 5+ years professional software development experience with strong focus on API design and development.
• Proven track record building complex, user-focused API platforms and managing API lifecycles.
• Experience with distributed systems, microservices architecture, and API gateway patterns.
• Deep understanding of REST APIs, OpenAPI specifications, API versioning, and service mesh technologies.
• Excel in collaborative, fast-paced startup environments.
• Strong communication skills for API contract discussions and cross-team coordination.

Technical Stack

• Node.js, NestJS, TypeScript
• Google Cloud Platform, API Gateway, Firestore, Pub/Sub, Firebase
• Docker, Terraform
• REST APIs, OpenAPI, Microservices

Team & Environment

Collaborate directly with product managers, frontend engineers, and designers.

Benefits & Compensation

• Comprehensive benefits.
• Early-stage stock options.
• 4 weeks' vacation (Moving towards unlimited vacation plan).
• Learning and development fund.
• Competitive base salary + equity.

Work Mode

This is a hybrid position based in Toronto.

We are focused on creating a positive working environment with regular team events and bi-weekly social activities. We are committed to personal growth, and excited to take ownership of their work.