Backend Software Engineer Intern (Contract)
Job Overview
DEZAI is looking for a passionate and driven Backend Software Engineer Intern (Contract) to join our Engineering team. This is a remote, contract-based internship where you'll work on real production systems using modern backend technologies, including Node.js, TypeScript, Prisma ORM, and PostgreSQL.
As an intern, you'll contribute directly to the development of DEZAI's AI-powered platform by building scalable backend services, designing efficient database architectures, developing secure APIs, and improving system performance. This is not a shadowing internship—you'll work on meaningful features, collaborate with experienced developers, and gain hands-on startup experience in a fast-paced engineering environment.
If you're someone who enjoys solving technical challenges, writing clean code, and building products that create real impact, we'd love to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and maintain scalable backend services using Node.js, TypeScript, Prisma ORM, and PostgreSQL.
- Develop secure, efficient, and well-documented REST APIs.
- Design and optimize relational database schemas for scalability and performance.
- Write clean, maintainable, and production-ready code following industry best practices.
- Debug, test, and optimize backend applications to ensure reliability and performance.
- Collaborate closely with frontend developers and other engineers to deliver high-quality features.
- Participate in code reviews and contribute to engineering discussions.
- Support deployments using Git workflows and CI/CD pipelines.
- Assist with cloud deployments and infrastructure when required.
- Document technical implementations, APIs, and development workflows.
- Participate in Agile development processes, including sprint planning, stand-ups, and retrospectives.
Required Qualifications
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
- Strong understanding of JavaScript or TypeScript.
- Experience with Node.js.
- Familiarity with SQL and relational databases, preferably PostgreSQL.
- Understanding of REST API development.
- Experience using Git and GitHub.
- Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and communicate effectively within a remote team.
Preferred Qualifications
While not required, experience with any of the following will be considered a plus:
- Prisma ORM
- Next.js
- Docker
- Redis
- AWS, Azure, Railway, Vercel, or DigitalOcean
- Authentication (JWT/OAuth)
- Database indexing and query optimization
- CI/CD pipelines
- Open-source contributions or personal software projects
Internship Benefits
- Work on real-world production software.
- Flexible remote work environment.
- Mentorship from experienced engineers.
- Exposure to modern backend technologies and startup workflows.
- Opportunity to contribute to an AI-driven EdTech platform.
- Internship Certificate upon successful completion.
- Performance-based Letter of Recommendation.
- Potential opportunity for future long-term collaboration.
Performance-Based Compensation
This is a contract-based internship with a performance-driven growth model.
All interns begin under the same internship structure. Throughout the internship, performance is evaluated regularly using a structured engineering rubric that includes:
- Technical knowledge and coding proficiency
- Code quality, readability, and maintainability
- Problem-solving ability
- Ownership and accountability
- Communication and collaboration
- Timely completion of assigned tasks
- Learning attitude and adaptability
- Overall contribution to DEZAI's engineering goals
Interns who consistently demonstrate exceptional performance during these evaluations may become eligible for:
- Performance-based stipend enhancements
- Additional incentive payments or bonuses
- Extended paid internship opportunities
- Long-term contract opportunities
- Consideration for a Pre-Placement Offer (PPO) or future full-time roles, subject to business requirements and performance
Compensation decisions are based on measurable performance, contribution, and overall impact rather than tenure alone.
Why Join DEZAI?
At DEZAI, interns are trusted to build, innovate, and take ownership from day one. You'll work alongside a passionate team developing technology that empowers students through AI while gaining valuable experience with modern software engineering practices.
If you're eager to learn, enjoy building scalable systems, and want to make a meaningful impact, we'd love to have you on the team.
Pay: $10.00 - $150.00 per month or more if exceptional performance.
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Professional development assistance
Work Location: Remote
Pay: $10.00 – $150.00 per month
Work Location: Remote
