Lead Full-Stack Engineer and Client Partner

About Us:

ShakaCode is a leading software development and design company specializing in Ruby on Rails, React, and mobile applications. We are dedicated to delivering exceptional digital experiences for our clients through innovative web and mobile apps, as well as optimizing infrastructure for cost, performance, security, and observability. Our primary focus is on assisting engineering managers, CTOs, and VPs of engineering by providing tailored solutions to enhance their teams' productivity and efficiency. In addition, we manage several open-source products, such as Shakapacker and React on Rails, and operate consumer-facing platforms like HiChee.com, a vacation rental price comparison site.

Position Overview:

ShakaCode seeks a lead engineer who is not only technical but also comfortable managing client relationships and overseeing technical projects. The ideal candidate will have:

> Strong background in Ruby Rails and React;

> Experience with optimizing infrastructure for costs, performance, security, and observability;

> Operate within a U.S.-aligned timezone (preferably the Americas);

> Have excellent written and verbal English communication skills;

> Have a track record of maintaining and building client relationships in a consulting capacity.

This role involves both technical leadership and the ability to understand and improve our client’s business models, making it a blend of software architecture, hands-on development, client management, and team supervision.

• Client Management: Act as the main point of contact for clients, improving communication and offering technical solutions. Ensure the quality of ShakaCode deliverables, including code reviews and active participation in Slack discussions.
• Technical Leadership: Lead and manage technical projects and deliver high-quality code using Rails and React. Work closely with clients and internal teams to implement features and enhance products. Another common task is optimizing infrastructure.
• Understand Client Business Models: Go beyond executing tasks—actively engage with clients to understand their business challenges and goals. Offer insights and suggestions that improve their business processes and outcomes, whether through technology solutions, process optimization, or improved communication.
• Team Supervision: Lead and mentor a team of engineers, ensuring project deadlines are met. Foster a culture of continuous learning and professional growth while remaining hands-on with code and problem-solving.
• Collaboration: Work effectively with developers in different time zones, showing flexibility to meet clients' needs.
• Problem-Solving: Proactively address technical and business challenges, suggesting improvements that align with client objectives.
• Proactive Communication: Maintain open, transparent communication with clients, keeping them informed of project status, managing expectations, and resolving issues.

• Mandatory:

• Strong expertise in Rails and React development.
• Fluency in English (both written and spoken).
• Client management experience: Ability to build strong client partnerships and understand their business needs.
• Demonstrated ability to balance technical and business-related discussions with clients, delivering value beyond the code.
• Previous experience managing a team of engineers.

• Nice to Have:

• Experience with Ops tools such as Docker, Kubernetes, and ControlPlane.
• Flexibility in working with multiple programming languages and frameworks.
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines.
• Familiarity with AI technologies.
• Proven success working remotely.

ShakaCode offers an exciting remote-first opportunity to work with talented developers, participate in innovative projects, and engage directly with clients, improving technical and business processes. This position offers an upside in compensation for superior results.

Preferred Location:

Americas or U.S.-aligned timezones for better collaboration with clients.