Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy
Jobs / Job page
Founding Engineer - MeritFirst image - Rise Careers
Job details

Founding Engineer - MeritFirst

About MeritFirst:

At MeritFirst, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how America identifies and elevates its brightest minds, regardless of background. By rejecting outdated, unreliable proxies for capability and embracing objective, merit-based assessments, we are rebuilding the meritocratic infrastructure of opportunity from the ground up. 

Role Overview:

As a Software Engineer at MeritFirst, you’ll be responsible for developing, testing, and deploying software solutions that meet the needs of our users. You’ll be working across the full stack – from building responsive, user-friendly interfaces in React, to developing server-side applications and APIs using Node.js and TypeScript. Your work will help us transform the way organizations discover and empower talent across industries.

What You’ll Do:

  • Develop and maintain full-stack applications using React, TypeScript, and Node.js.

  • Write clean, maintainable, and testable code following industry best practices.

  • Implement both client-side and server-side logic for web and mobile platforms.

  • Design and build RESTful APIs to power the user experience.

  • Ensure performance, security, and responsiveness of applications.

  • Keep up with the latest trends and technologies in web development to improve and innovate.

What We’re Looking For:

  • 3+ years of experience working with modern JavaScript frameworks, particularly React.

  • Proficiency in TypeScript, and experience with Node.js for backend development.

  • Solid understanding of front-end technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, etc.) and the latest web standards.

  • Strong experience with RESTful APIs and microservice architectures.

  • Experience with databases (SQL, NoSQL) and understanding of how to scale applications.

  • Experience with version control systems like Git.

  • Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively in a hybrid, fast-paced environment.

  • A self-starter mentality with a drive to make an impact and innovate.

Bonus Points If You Have:

  • Experience working with Large Language Models (LLMs) and related AI technologies.

Why Join Us?

  • Meritocracy: We focus on real capabilities, not credentials. You’ll be assessed based on your skills and ability to execute, not the name of your school or employer.

  • Innovation: Work on cutting-edge projects that challenge the status quo and empower people to succeed.

If you're looking to be part of a team that prioritizes capability over credentials and wants to make a real difference, we encourage you to apply. Let’s build something that matters, together.

Apply now and let’s break the mold.

Average salary estimate

$100000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$80000K
$120000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Founding Engineer - MeritFirst, 8VC

At MeritFirst, we’re excited to welcome a talented Founding Engineer to our dynamic team in Austin. Our mission is to transform how America identifies and elevates talent, putting a focus on merit, capability, and real-world skills rather than outdated proxies. As a Founding Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in developing, testing, and deploying full-stack software solutions that cater to our users’ needs. You’ll dive into everything from creating engaging user interfaces with React to crafting robust server-side applications using Node.js and TypeScript. Your contributions will fundamentally change the way organizations harness talent across different sectors. Our ideal candidate has over three years of experience with modern JavaScript frameworks, especially React, and a strong grasp of back-end technologies like Node.js. You will take ownership of building RESTful APIs, implement client-side and server-side logic, and ensure that our applications are secure, responsive, and high-performing. Staying abreast of the latest trends and technologies is crucial as you innovate and improve our systems. If you have a self-starter mentality, a passion for technology, and an eagerness to create meaningful change, then this is the perfect opportunity for you. Join us at MeritFirst and let's build something that truly matters, together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Founding Engineer - MeritFirst Role at 8VC
What are the key responsibilities of a Founding Engineer at MeritFirst?

As a Founding Engineer at MeritFirst, your primary responsibilities will include developing and maintaining full-stack applications using React, TypeScript, and Node.js. You'll be implementing both client-side and server-side logic, designing RESTful APIs, and ensuring the performance and security of our applications. Additionally, keeping up with the latest development trends will be part of your role to drive innovation.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications do I need to become a Founding Engineer at MeritFirst?

To become a Founding Engineer at MeritFirst, you should have a minimum of 3 years of experience with modern JavaScript frameworks, particularly React. Proficiency in TypeScript and experience with Node.js for backend development are essential. A solid understanding of front-end technologies, RESTful APIs, and database management (both SQL and NoSQL) is also required.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What technologies will I be working with as a Founding Engineer at MeritFirst?

As a Founding Engineer at MeritFirst, you will primarily work with technologies such as React for the front end, TypeScript for type safety, and Node.js for server-side applications. You'll also engage with RESTful APIs, microservice architectures, and databases while utilizing version control systems like Git.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Does MeritFirst offer any unique benefits for Founding Engineers?

Yes! At MeritFirst, we embrace a meritocracy that prioritizes capabilities over credentials. As a Founding Engineer, you'll have the chance to work on innovative projects that empower people and challenge conventional norms. We value self-starters and provide an environment that nurtures creativity and professional growth.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How does MeritFirst support its Founding Engineers in their career development?

MeritFirst supports its Founding Engineers by fostering an environment of continuous learning and innovation. You'll have access to the latest technologies, the opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects, and collaboration with a passionate team. We encourage personal and professional development that aligns with your career aspirations.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Founding Engineer - MeritFirst
Can you describe your experience with React and how you've used it in previous projects?

When answering this question, focus on specific projects where you used React. Explain how you implemented various features, managed state, and interacted with APIs. Providing concrete examples will showcase your expertise and problem-solving skills important for the Founding Engineer role at MeritFirst.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is your approach to writing clean and maintainable code?

Discuss your coding standards, practices like code reviews, and testing procedures. Emphasize your understanding of industry best practices and how you ensure your code is easily readable and maintainable, which aligns well with the expectations at MeritFirst.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you ensure the performance and security of applications?

Touch on performance optimization techniques such as lazy loading, code splitting, and efficient database queries. Regarding security, discuss practices like input validation, authentication methods, and the use of HTTPS. This aligns with the responsibilities of a Founding Engineer at MeritFirst.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you explain your experience with RESTful APIs?

When responding, detail your experience designing and implementing RESTful APIs. Talk about the methods of authentication you've used, how you structured endpoints for clarity and efficiency, and any tools or libraries that facilitated your work. This will illustrate your technical proficiency in a critical aspect of the role.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you stay updated with the latest web development trends and technologies?

Share your strategies for continuous learning, whether through online courses, attending conferences, or reading industry blogs. Highlight how this ongoing education has benefited your previous projects, which emphasizes your commitment to innovation a key element at MeritFirst.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What challenges have you faced when working in a hybrid development environment?

Discuss specific challenges such as communication, collaboration, or technology integration in a hybrid setup. Provide examples of how you addressed these challenges and maintained productivity, which relates to the collaborative environment at MeritFirst.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe your experience with databases and how you choose between SQL and NoSQL.

Talk about your familiarity with both SQL and NoSQL databases, including scenarios where each would be the best choice. Include details about any performance considerations or scaling challenges you've addressed, which will demonstrate your well-rounded technical expertise as a Founding Engineer.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment?

Explain your approach to task prioritization, potentially using frameworks like Agile or Kanban. Give examples of how you managed competing deadlines and ensured high-quality deliverables, which speaks to the fast-paced setting at MeritFirst.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What motivated you to apply for the Founding Engineer position at MeritFirst?

This is an opportunity to align your personal values with MeritFirst’s mission. Talk about your passion for innovation and meritocracy, and how this role offers a chance to make meaningful impacts, both personally and for the company.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What do you understand by 'meritocracy' in a workplace and why is it important?

Highlight your understanding of meritocracy as a system where individuals are rewarded based on their skills and contributions rather than their background. Discuss its importance in fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation, which resonates with MeritFirst's goals.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Similar Jobs
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 10 days ago
Photo of the Rise User

Join M-KOPA as a Backend Engineering Team Lead to empower financial inclusion and connectivity in Africa with a dynamic remote team.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 4 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Kaseya Careers Hybrid East Greenbush, New York, United States
Posted 11 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 3 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 10 days ago

8VC is a leading technology investment firm, investing in visionary teams and backing industry-transforming companies. The partners have a proven track-record as founders, engineers, and operators of successful companies including Palantir, Addepa...

6 jobs
MATCH
Calculating your matching score...
FUNDING
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 30, 2025

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!
LATEST ACTIVITY
Photo of the Rise User
7 people applied to Game Developer (Unity) at LiquidX
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Educational Program Director at Tutor Me Education
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Senior Director, Digital Marketing at UserTesting
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Product Manager, AI & STEM Specialist at Macmillan Learning
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Ashland just viewed Prior Authorization Specialist at LifeStance Health
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Ashland just viewed Prior Authorization Specialist at LifeStance Health
F
Someone from OH, Grove City just viewed Director of Internal Communications at Filevine
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Amelia just viewed Copy Editor (contract) at Morning Brew Inc.
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Versailles just viewed Parts Manager at Crown Equipment
Photo of the Rise User
8 people applied to Backend Developer at G2i Inc.
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Bookkeeper - Franchise Location at H&R Block
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Dublin just viewed Cashier - Sawmill Road Market District at Giant Eagle
M
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Dental Practice Manager at Mortenson Family Dental
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Summer 2025 Data Intern at Reproductive Freedom for All
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Athens just viewed Medical Assistant - Podiatry - Athens at OhioHealth
K
Someone from OH, Dublin just viewed UI/UX Designer at Konrad
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Marketing Analytics Intern - Summer 2025 at Spectrum