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Lead Software Engineer, Backend

    • Boston, MA
  • Engineering
  • Full time
a group of men in a room with computers

About DraftKings

At DraftKings, AI is becoming an integral part of both our present and future, powering how work gets done today, guiding smarter decisions, and sparking bold ideas. It’s transforming how we enhance customer experiences, streamline operations, and unlock new possibilities. Our teams are energized by innovation and readily embrace emerging technology. We’re not waiting for the future to arrive. We’re shaping it, one bold step at a time. To those who see AI as a driver of progress, come build the future together.

The Crown Is Yours

As a Lead Software Engineer, you'll lead the charge in building scalable systems that power real-time experiences for millions of customers. You'll architect robust solutions, write high-performance code, and guide a team committed to technical excellence. Working across disciplines, you'll align engineering execution with business strategy and elevate our enterprise platform. This is a rare opportunity to lead with impact, shape product direction, mentor talent, and drive innovation at scale.


What You'll Do

  • Architect, develop, and maintain scalable and secure systems and APIs that power high-impact applications used by millions of users in a real-time, always-on environment.

  • Take ownership of the full development lifecycle from shaping the architecture of new features to breaking down workstreams and guiding implementation.

  • Lead by example, writing high-performance, well-tested code that meets our rigorous standards for reliability and scalability.

  • Set and enforce best practices around code quality, design patterns, testing, and system performance.

  • Triage, debug, and resolve complex issues in production environments, driving a culture of accountability and operational excellence.

  • Collaborate cross-functionally with Product, Design, and Engineering teams to align technical solutions with strategic business goals.

  • Act as a technical mentor and coach, providing guidance and feedback that helps engineers grow and deliver their best work.

  • Play a critical role in shaping the team’s roadmap and technical direction while fostering a strong engineering culture grounded in ownership and continuous learning.


What You'll Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or any suitable combination of education, experience, and training.

  • At least 5 years of experience in object-oriented backend development using languages such as C# or Java, with advanced expertise in OOP principles, design patterns, and backend architecture.

  • Proven ability to architect, build, and scale distributed systems in Cloud environments such as AWS or Google Cloud Platform (GCP).

  • Deep experience developing and maintaining comprehensive automated test suites, including unit, integration, and performance tests, to ensure system resilience and scalability.

  • A strong track record of mentoring engineers, leading code and design reviews, and driving high-impact technical decisions across cross-functional teams.

  • A proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement, code quality, and driving engineering best practices across teams.

Join Our Team

We’re a publicly traded (NASDAQ: DKNG) technology company headquartered in Boston. As a regulated gaming company, you may be required to obtain a gaming license issued by the appropriate state agency as a condition of employment. Don’t worry, we’ll guide you through the process if this is relevant to your role.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is 136,000.00 USD - 170,000.00 USD, plus bonus, equity, and benefits as applicable. Our ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The compensation information displayed on each job posting reflects the range for new hire pay rates for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range and how that was determined during the hiring process. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Ready to Own What's Next?

We know finding a new job can be intimidating. Don't let imposter syndrome stop you from applying! Even if you don't think you tick off every box in this job description, we'd still love for you to apply or join our Talent Community. 

DraftKings is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We do not tolerate discrimination of any kind and are committed to providing equal employment opportunities regardless of your gender identity, race, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, status as a protected veteran, or status as an individual with a disability.

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Your Benefits

In the US

Learn More

Health Benefits

We take your wellbeing and health seriously. DraftKings offers comprehensive health benefits, including various medical plans, dental, and vision.

Wellbeing Program

You’ll have free access to programs such as free therapy sessions with Lyra Mental Health Solution, Lyra Employee Assistance Program, the Calm App, Virtual Yoga Classes, and many more.

Parental Leave & Support

We are proud to give 14 weeks of 100% paid parental leave to all global team members and offer workplace lactation support. Additionally, we are pleased to partner with Care.com, a care finder and backup childcare partner for our U.S. employees. 

Family Planning

DraftKings is proud to offer a range of benefits that support family planning. We've got you covered whether you’re considering adoption, surrogacy, fertility treatments, or other family planning.

Flexible PTO

Go ahead and plan your next big getaway. When you join, you'll have flexible PTO if you work in the United States.

Pet Insurance

Your furry babies deserve the best care, too! We’ll help you save on vet expenses for accidents, illnesses, and more through our pet insurance benefit.

Gym Reimbursement

Whether it’s cardio, yoga, or training for a marathon, we’ll reimburse part of your gym membership once you enroll in a health insurance plan. All you need to do is find your favorite gym.

Financial Planning

We’ll help you plan for your financial future and success. From 401(k) matching to programs such as Origin Financial, we’ll set you up for future healthy financial habits and goals.

Commuter Benefits

No matter how you commute to and from the office, we want to help you lower costs. Once you join, you’ll have access to our commuter benefits to help you save money on your daily commute.

Tuition Reimbursement

We want you to expand your knowledge and continue learning within your career through our Tuition Reimbursement Program. Eligible team members can receive tuition reimbursement for educational courses related to their positions or another position at DraftKings.