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Senior Lead Software Engineer, Backend

    • Remote - US
  • Engineering
  • Full time
a group of people sitting in chairs looking at a laptop

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 Senior Lead Software Engineer, you'll drive the architecture and development of high-scale systems that power real-time, always-on applications used by millions. You'll lead with technical authority, owning the entire engineering lifecycle, guiding implementation, and mentoring a team of talented developers. Working cross-functionally with Product, Design, and Engineering, you'll align technical execution with business priorities while fostering a culture grounded in accountability, quality, and continuous learning. This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll influence the product roadmap, tackle complex scaling challenges, and shape the future of our engineering organization.


What You'll Do

  • Architect, develop, and maintain scalable, secure systems and APIs that power real-time, always-on applications used by millions.

  • Own the full development lifecycle from shaping the architecture of new features to breaking down workstreams and guiding implementation across the team.

  • Lead by example, writing high-performance, well-tested code and setting the bar for reliability, scalability, and operational excellence.

  • Establish and uphold best practices in system design, code quality, testing strategies, and performance monitoring.

  • Act as a first responder for the systems your team owns by triaging, debugging, and resolving complex production issues with urgency and accountability.

  • Drive cross-functional collaboration with Product, Design, and Engineering to align technical execution with business priorities.

  • Mentor and develop engineers at all levels, providing the feedback, support, and guidance they need to grow and thrive.

  • Shape the technical roadmap, influence strategic decisions, and foster a culture of ownership, innovation, and continuous learning.


What You'll Bring

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

  • At least 7 years of experience in backend development using object-oriented programming languages such as C# or Java, with advanced proficiency in software architecture, OOP principles, and scalable system design

  • Expertise in designing and building distributed systems in cloud environments like AWS or Google Cloud Platform (GCP), with a strong understanding of modern cloud-native architectures

  • A track record of building resilient, high-performance systems backed by robust automated test coverage, including unit, integration, and performance tests

  • Demonstrated leadership in setting technical direction, conducting code and design reviews, and influencing architecture decisions across engineering teams

  • Experience mentoring engineers and creating an environment that fosters growth, learning, and high performance

  • A strong focus on engineering excellence, with a proactive approach to improving system reliability, scalability, and maintainability

  • Deep commitment to driving best practices in development processes, testing strategies, and system monitoring

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 160,700.00 USD - 200,900.00 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

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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.