Junior Backend Systems Engineer (Python/C++) (Chicago, IL)

We are seeking a detail-oriented, highly analytical Junior Systems Software Engineer to join our core engineering team. In this role, you will design, implement, and optimize low-level application architecture, networking protocols, and performance-critical systems. The ideal candidate brings a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals, hands-on experience with C++ and Python, and a passion for building responsive, scalable software.

Key Responsibilities:

· Systems & Network Architecture: Design, implement, and maintain custom networking components, client-server models, and protocol resolvers (UDP/TCP, DNS, socket communications).

· Algorithm & Performance Optimization: Apply data structures, memory management, and graph search heuristics (e.g., A*, custom hashing, priority queues) to solve complex performance and indexing challenges.

· Testing & Quality Assurance: Develop and execute comprehensive unit, integration, and stress tests to validate network state synchronization, catch edge cases, and eliminate execution bottlenecks.

· Debugging & Problem Solving: Utilize low-level debugging tools (GDB, Wireshark) to trace memory leaks, analyze packet flow, and debug asynchronous multi-threaded or multi-client execution paths.

· Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with cross-functional teams to design clean, modular codebases and maintain version control integrity across all release cycles.

Key Requirements:

· Education: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline (GPA 3.5+ preferred).

· Core Languages: Strong proficiency in C++ and Python. Familiarity with C, C#, Java, SQL, or x86 Assembly is a plus.

· Systems & Networking: Solid understanding of TCP/UDP networking principles, socket programming, caching mechanisms, operating systems, and computer architecture.

· Tools & Environment: Hands-on experience with Linux/Bash, Git/GitHub, GDB, and Wireshark. Experience with SFML, Unity, or VR/AR engines is desirable.

· CS Fundamentals: Proven command of object-oriented design, algorithmic complexity, recursive problem-solving, and concurrent state management.

Desired Competencies:

· Self-starter capable of managing end-to-end projects—from requirement mapping to comprehensive testing.

· Passion for interactive media, high-performance computing, or game engine mechanics.

· Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and code reviews.