Role Overview

In this high-impact position, you'll design and scale core systems at the heart of Zapier's AI Orchestration Zone. As a key player on the MCP team, you'll own APIs, platform primitives, and cross-functional architecture decisions. This isn't just coding—it's defining how AI interacts with the real world through Zapier.

Zapier has transformed how businesses automate repetitive tasks, boosting productivity with intelligent workflows. Our AI initiatives, powered by MCP, enable agents to seamlessly handle complex automations. With a remote-first setup across the Americas, this role offers flexibility while delivering executive-level visibility.

Posted on 11/4/2025, this opportunity is perfect for backend experts with 6+ years experience in Python/Node.js, API design, and scalable systems. If you thrive in fast-moving, experimental teams valuing curiosity, clarity, and velocity, apply now to influence Zapier's AI roadmap.

Key Responsibilities

As a Sr. Backend Engineer on MCP, your day-to-day will include:

• Designing and implementing core APIs that let AI agents execute actions across Zapier's vast ecosystem of integrations.
• Building scalable orchestration platforms with robust logging, error handling, and 99.99% uptime guarantees.
• Architecting MCP primitives like persistent memory, dynamic context windows, and multi-step reasoning engines.
• Bridging LLMs with Zapier's execution infrastructure for seamless automation flows.
• Collaborating with Product Managers, Platform Engineers, and Sales to evolve the protocol for internal and external use.
• Leading design reviews focused on scalability, low-latency performance, zero-trust security, and intuitive developer APIs.
• Owning production deployments, monitoring, and iterative improvements based on real-world agent usage.
• Contributing to open-source MCP standards and ecosystem documentation.
• Mentoring team members on best practices in distributed systems and AI integration.
• Experimenting with cutting-edge AI models to push platform boundaries.
• Analyzing performance bottlenecks and implementing optimizations for high-throughput scenarios.
• Ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations in AI-driven workflows.
• Participating in on-call rotations to maintain system reliability.

Expect high ownership in a trust-based culture where you'll ship features that impact millions of users.

Qualifications

We're seeking engineers who excel in:

• 6+ years building production backend systems at scale.
• Expertise in Python or Node.js for service development.
• Advanced API design skills (REST, GraphQL, gRPC).
• Database mastery including schema design and query optimization.
• CI/CD proficiency with tools like GitHub Actions or Jenkins.
• AI/ML knowledge, especially LLMs and agent frameworks.
• Experience with cloud-native architectures (Kubernetes, serverless).
• Proven cross-functional collaboration in agile environments.
• Strong debugging and performance profiling abilities.
• Passion for protocols and open standards.

No degree required—demonstrated impact matters most.

Salary & Benefits

Competitive compensation: $180,000 - $250,000 USD base salary, plus equity. Total comp reflects seniority and experience.

• Unlimited PTO with recharge days.
• Top-tier medical, dental, vision coverage.
• 401(k) with 4% match.
• Fully remote with $1,500 home office stipend.
• 16 weeks paid parental leave.
• $2,000 annual learning budget.
• Company retreats in exotic locations.
• Wellness programs including therapy access.
• Stock options in unicorn-scale company.
• Generous volunteer matching.
• Fitness and gym reimbursements up to $100/month.
• Team-building events and swag.

Why Join Zapier?

Zapier isn't just a workplace—it's a movement. We've automated work for 2M+ users, processing billions of tasks yearly. MCP positions you at the forefront of AI agents, with influence on industry standards.

Our remote-first culture emphasizes outcomes over hours. Enjoy autonomy, rapid iteration, and direct executive access. Join a team of curious builders tackling humanity's biggest challenges through automation.

High visibility means your work shapes product strategy and partnerships. With AI booming, this role accelerates your career in one of tech's hottest spaces.

How to Apply

Ready to build the future of AI automation? Submit your resume and a note on your favorite backend project. Use AI tools responsibly per our guidelines. We review applications weekly—apply today!

Zapier is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.