Software Engineer - Scala (Functional Programming)

About the Role

Obsidian Systems is seeking a Software Engineer to build distributed applications that enable privacy-preserving, multi-party computation environments. This position combines backend development with smart contract integration, requiring strong functional programming expertise and the ability to reason about complex distributed systems. You'll work directly with clients in a consulting project capacity, translating technical decisions into clear communication.

This role is ideal for engineers who excel at core functional programming, enjoy tackling complex systems problems, and thrive in collaborative, distributed teams. We value solid engineering fundamentals, curiosity, and proven hands-on development experience over specific framework experience.

What You Will Do

• Build and maintain backend services using Scala, focusing on correctness, data ownership, and multi-participant coordination
• Develop TypeScript services and APIs that interact with blockchain-based applications and smart contracts
• Model real-world workflows using smart contract systems alongside service-layer development
• Write production-quality code with emphasis on testing, readability, and maintainability
• Participate in design discussions and code reviews, driving iterative platform improvements
• Engage with clients daily, communicating technical progress, architectural tradeoffs, and engineering decisions with clarity and professionalism
• Collaborate in a distributed environment with talented software developers across time zones

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 4+ years of software development experience with functional programming languages
• Production-level experience in Scala and/or TypeScript (proficiency in one with willingness to learn the other is acceptable)
• Experience with Linux, Nix, NixOS, or reproducible build systems
• Strong software engineering fundamentals including data modeling, API design, service boundaries, testing, and debugging
• Comfort reasoning about complex logic and non-trivial problem spaces
• Ability to learn new technologies independently and adapt to evolving requirements
• Remote work experience with demonstrated clear written and verbal communication skills

Nice to Have

• Experience with distributed systems, event-driven architectures, or workflow engines
• Familiarity with DAML, smart contracts, or ledger-based systems
• Background in regulated industries or high-reliability system development
• Understanding of privacy-preserving computation or multi-party computation concepts

Why Join Obsidian Systems

We believe in giving talented engineers the opportunity to grow into new technical domains. Our team values clear thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and continuous learning. Working on privacy-preserving distributed systems, you'll tackle meaningful technical challenges while growing your expertise in emerging areas like smart contracts and distributed ledger technology.

💰 Compensation not publicly listed. Market estimate for similar roles: from $120K, varying by experience and location.