Engineering Manager, Core Backend Services at whatnot

This role is designed for a seasoned engineering leader with a decade of experience, specifically focused on the "engine under the hood." You are the ideal candidate if you have spent at least five years managing teams that build high-scale backend services, real-time systems, and internal developer platforms. The company is looking for a technical heavyweight who cares as much about "developer ergonomics" and velocity as they do about architectural integrity. The compensation is highly competitive ($270k–$305k base) and comes with a robust benefits package, including a 4% 401k match and unique perks like a "dogfooding" budget to shop on the platform. While the team is remote-friendly, this is a **remote-colocated** model requiring you to live within commuting distance of their hubs in SF, LA, Seattle, or NYC for in-person collaboration. **You might be a good fit if you...** * Have 10+ years of infra/platform experience and have led teams through rapid hyper-growth. * Are obsessed with improving developer productivity and reducing technical friction. * Can navigate complex architectural decisions involving real-time data and massive storage systems. * Enjoy a high-energy "startup" environment where you still get to be hands-on with strategy.