Software Engineer , Annotations

About The Role

Handshake AI is building the infrastructure that powers how AI work gets delivered ry project our operators launch, every fellow who works on those projects, and every task that flows through our platform relies on systems built by the HAI Annotation team.

As a Software Engineer I on this team, you'll build the core platform that enables operators to configure customer projects, manage complex tasking workflows, and ensure work moves reliably through our delivery pipelines. You'll work on foundational systems that are used across the organization and serve as building blocks for other engineering teams.

This is a highly cross‑functional role where you'll partner closely with operators, product managers, product designers, and engineers across Handshake AI to create scalable, extensible solutions that improve both fellow and operator experiences.

• Build and maintain backend systems that power project configuration and delivery workflows
• Develop tools that operators use to set up and manage customer projects
• Create scalable tasking and pipeline systems that support complex data generation processes
• Improve fellow tasking experiences through automation and workflow enhancements
• Design extensible platform capabilities that can be leveraged by multiple teams across Handshake AI
• Collaborate closely with operators to understand pain points and translate operational needs into durable, efficient software solutions
• Partner with engineers across the organization to ensure platform systems are reliable, flexible, and easy to build upon
• Contribute to system architecture, technical design reviews, and engineering best practices

• 1+ years of professional software engineering experience through internships, full‑time roles, research, or significant project work
• Strong programming fundamentals and experience building production software
• Experience with backend development and distributed systems concepts
• Familiarity with modern web technologies and APIs
• Experience working with databases and data modeling
• Ability to break down complex problems and develop scalable solutions
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset
• Excitement about working closely with operational stakeholders and solving workflow challenges

• Experience with Type Script
• Experience building internal tools, workflow systems, or platform infrastructure
• Exposure to workflow orchestration, pipeline systems, or task management platforms
• Experience designing systems that support multiple teams or stakeholders
• Familiarity with AI, annotation, or human‑in‑the‑loop workflows
• Experience working in fast‑moving startup environments

The below benefits are for full‑time US employees.

• Ownership:
  Equity in a fast‑growing company
• Financial Wellness: 401(k) match, competitive compensation, financial coaching
• Family Support:
  Paid parental leave, fertility benefits, parental coaching
• Wellbeing:
  Medical, dental, and vision, mental health support, $500 wellness stipend
• Growth: $2,000 learning stipend, ongoing development
• Remote & Office:
  Internet, commuting, and free lunch/gym in our SF office
• Time Off:
  Flexible PTO, 15 holidays + 2 flex days
• Connection:
  Team outings & referral bonuses

Compensation Range: $150K - $175K