Backend Developer - KHK Games at a16z Games (Philadelphia, PA)
a16z Games· Philadelphia, PA·
Role details
Job description
We are an innovative startup in the social casino space seeking a curious, self-starting Golang Developer to join our growing team. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a high-traffic, multi-tenant, server-side rendered application from the ground up. Our ideal candidate has some full stack development experience, skewing more heavily on the backend side.
Role Overview: As a Mid-Level Golang Developer, you will play a critical role in building new features and products within a product that is heavily utilized by its customer base. You will work in conjunction with our engineering team to bring new product innovations to life. You'll have the opportunity to work remotely with periodic collaboration days at our Philadelphia office, balancing flexibility and team engagement. We currently meet in the office around twice a month..
Responsibilities:
- Develop robust, scalable, and efficient full stack code using Golang.
- Build and maintain server-side rendered applications using modern tools like a-h/Templ, HTMX, TailwindCSS, and DaisyUI.
- Collaborate with front-end developers and designers to integrate user-facing elements.
- Write clear, maintainable, and thoroughly tested code, adhering to best practices.
- Participate actively in code reviews and team discussions to ensure high code quality and team growth.
Desired Qualifications:
- 3-5 years of professional experience developing with Golang.
- Experience with SQL, specifically PostgreSQL (experience with SQLC is a strong plus as we do not use ORMs).
- Familiarity with server-side rendering technologies (a-h/Templ) and interactive frameworks (HTMX), exposure to Islands Architecture is a plus.
- Exposure to TailwindCSS and DaisyUI or similar utility-first CSS frameworks.
- Proven ability to write clear, testable code, and a strong commitment to software quality.
- Experience in regulated industries or highly compliant environments is preferred, but is not a disqualifier.
Soft Skills & Cultural Fit:
- Curious and proactive self-starter who thrives in startup environments.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to ask insightful questions.
- Comfortable working autonomously and collaboratively, with a passion for learning and growth.
Why Join Us?
- Opportunity to shape innovative products in the engaging and dynamic social casino industry.
- Collaborative environment that values your insights and fosters professional growth.
- Hybrid work model providing flexibility alongside valuable in-person interactions.
Why work at a16z Games
- High-Impact Environment: Work directly with top-tier founders building the next generation of gaming and entertainment companies. You'll be at the heart of innovation in AI, 3D, and consumer tech.
- Team Culture: a16z describes its culture as a "team sport" where "every time we win, we win as a team." They value diverse backgrounds (introverts, extroverts, creative thinkers, and conscientious workers) and maintain a high standard of performance.
- Operator Experience: Roles on the speedrun team offer the chance to work hands-on with portfolio companies on go-to-market, product, talent, and strategy—providing broad exposure rapidly.
- Location & Flexibility: The program is headquartered in the Bay Area (Menlo Park) but is "open to founders around the world," suggesting a globally-minded, potentially hybrid or remote-capable team environment.
- Notable Perks: "Unfair advantages" in sales, marketing, and hiring resources; access to top-tier partners; and the opportunity to be part of a community of 600+ elite founders. The firm also offers dedicated in-house recruiters, visa assistance, and banking support.
- Open Roles (as of late 2024/2025): The team has posted for roles including Business Intelligence Developer, Senior/Staff Machine Learning Engineer (Simulation Realism), IT Engineer, and Research Scientist—indicating a mix of technical, data, and operational roles.