Lead Developer
Job Description
Fast Facts
Proximity Learning is seeking a Lead Ruby on Rails Developer to enhance their virtual education platform, focusing on educational equity through technology.
Responsibilities: Lead development and deployment of scalable web applications, architect backend systems, mentor engineers, and ensure system reliability and performance.
Skills: 6+ years of experience with Ruby on Rails, Postgres, Redis, RESTful APIs, team leadership, and a proactive mindset, with familiarity in frontend frameworks a plus.
Qualifications: Experience in EdTech, SaaS or remote-first environments is preferred, along with strong ownership and collaboration skills.
Location: Austin, Texas, United States
Compensation: Not provided by employer. Typical compensation ranges for this position are between $120,000 - $160,000.
Empower the Future of Education with Scalable, Impactful Technology
At Proximity Learning, we’re transforming K-12 education by delivering live, certified teachers directly into classrooms across the country—virtually. As a leader in virtual instruction, we are scaling our technology to better serve students and teachers in under-resourced communities. We’re looking for a Lead Ruby on Rails Developer to drive the evolution of our platform and shape the future of educational equity.
🔧 About the Role
As our Lead Developer, you’ll be the technical anchor of our product engineering team—owning architecture decisions, mentoring engineers, and driving execution of platform features that directly impact teachers, students, and district partners.
You will:
- Lead design, development, and deployment of scalable applications using Ruby on Rails
- Architect backend systems and integrate with frontend components and third-party tools
- Collaborate with product and design teams to translate educational needs into technical solutions
- Review code, set technical standards, and mentor junior and mid-level developers
- Ensure system reliability, performance, and security across a growing ecosystem
✅ What We’re Looking For
- 6+ years of experience building and maintaining complex web applications
- Deep expertise with Ruby on Rails, Postgres, Redis, and RESTful APIs
- Experience leading a team or mentoring other developers in a fast-paced environment
- Familiarity with frontend frameworks (React or similar) is a plus
- Strong sense of ownership, curiosity, and a mission-driven mindset
- Experience working in an EdTech, SaaS, or remote-first company is a bonus
🌍 Why Proximity Learning?
- Mission-driven: Help solve the teacher shortage and advance educational equity
- Collaborative culture: Work with passionate educators, technologists, and innovators
- Competitive salary + benefits: Including health insurance, 401(k), and generous PTO
- Fun office environment with lunch, snacks, monthly fun team events, nitro coffee on tap, bar accessible after hours, etc.
Company Information
Location: Austin, TX
Type: Hybrid