About the role

Software Engineer building secure networking features and distributed systems for Tailscale’s connectivity software. Developing Go-based open-source clients and backend services remotely in Canada.

Responsibilities

Develop the Tailscale product, contributing to open-source client code and related backend services, with emphasis on networking features and optimizations
Take ownership of the entire product lifecycle, from writing code to product ideation and strategic decision-making
Work with UX/UI designers and product managers to shape networking capabilities
Design, build, test, and document core networking software components
Build observability into running services, participate in incident response, and handle customer support escalations
Analyze and improve the efficiency, scalability, and stability of networking systems and resources
Apply a security-first mindset to networking design and implementation

Proven experience implementing application-layer networking concepts and distributed components, such as proxies, connectors, and overlay routing
Deep knowledge of operating system-level networking internals, including socket programming, routing tables, and packet filtering primitives
Professional experience with Go (Golang)
Experience designing and maintaining distributed systems
Solid understanding of concurrency, including multithreading, race conditions, memory management, and synchronization primitives
Understanding of scalability
Proficiency with relational databases such as PostgreSQL or MySQL
Ability to write efficient SQL queries
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly
Strong collaborative mindset and ability to work independently and as part of a team
Adaptability in a fast-paced, dynamic startup environment

Inclusive, flexible environment where you can be your authentic self
Competitive total compensation package including base salary, equity incentive plan, and variable commission for quota-based roles
Comprehensive group benefits with no waiting period, including health, vision, dental, and more for you and your family
Remote-first company with flexible work arrangements
Virtual and in-person social events
Corporate co-working program through WeWork or similar spaces
Employer-funded retirement contributions matching employee contributions dollar-for-dollar, up to a maximum annual employer contribution equal to 0.75% of eligible compensation
Annual company retreat and team off-sites
$1500 USD annually for professional development
Mentorship, coaching, and internal promotion opportunities
Flexible paid time off program
Company-owned laptop choice of Mac or PC
Monthly home internet reimbursement
$500 USD workstation customization allowance
Paid parental leave top-ups: 20 weeks for birthing parents and 16 weeks for non-birthing parents