> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/288875-senior-software-engineer-nyt-cooking](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/288875-senior-software-engineer-nyt-cooking). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Senior Software Engineer, NYT Cooking - **Company:** New York Times - **Location:** New York, NY, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $140,000.0 - $160,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Query Performance, Java (Programming Language), Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), Artificial Intelligence, Amazon Web Services, Apple IOS, Cloud Computing, Code Review, Databases, Data as a Services, Programming Tools, Distributed Systems, Elasticsearch, Github, Mobile Application Software, PostgreSQL, Machine Learning, Performance Tuning, Ruby on Rails, Ruby, Search Technologies, Software Engineering, TypeScript, Datadog, Diagnostic Tools, Large Language Models, Backend, Sentry, Graphql, Api Design, Terraform, Docker, Jenkins, Golang, Programming Languages - **Published:** May 23, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.juju.com/job/00000000g1ppm4 ## About the Role + 5+ years of experience designing and implementing scalable APIs and backend services for web and mobile applications using GraphQL and REST. + 5+ years of experience developing backend systems using modern programming languages such as Go, Ruby, TypeScript, or Java. + 5+ years of experience working with SQL databases, particularly PostgreSQL, including data modeling and query performance optimization. + 3+ years of experience working with distributed systems and search technologies such as Elasticsearch or OpenSearch, along with observability and troubleshooting tools including Datadog, Sentry, logs, and dashboards. + 3+ years of experience working with cloud infrastructure platforms such as AWS or GCP and containerized deployment technologies including Docker and Kubernetes. + Experience leading projects through the full software development lifecycle, collaborating cross-functionally with technical and non-technical stakeholders, and mentoring engineers through code reviews, pairing, and technical discussions. Preferred Qualifications: + Experience with GraphQL federation and building scalable subgraphs within larger distributed architectures. + Experience with search and recommendation technologies, including Elasticsearch relevance tuning, semantic search, and ML/LLM-driven product features. + Strong experience with Go and/or Ruby on Rails, particularly building and maintaining API-driven services and backend systems. + Experience with infrastructure and developer tooling, including Terraform, CI/CD pipelines (GitHub Actions, Drone, Jenkins), automation, release engineering, and LLM evaluation tools such as Braintrust. ## Description The New York Times is looking for a Senior Software Engineer to join the NYT Cooking API team, focused on building the backend systems and APIs that power interactive, AI-driven recipe experiences across NYT Cooking. This includes features such as recipe substitutions, personalized modifications, and experienced adaptations powered by LLM technology. The team also supports core search and discovery functionality, user data services like recipe saves and ratings, and the GraphQL infrastructure used across web and mobile platforms. This is a collaborative and team that partners with product, design, editorial, and data teams to create seamless cooking experiences for millions of users across web, iOS, and Android. The environment is, and focused on building scalable, reliable, and observable systems that continue to evolve with the product. 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