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Full-Time

Backend Engineer

Community

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

WhatNot

WhatNot

501-1,000 employees

Online marketplace for authentic collectibles

Consumer Goods

Compensation Overview

$185k - $245kAnnually

+ Equity

Senior, Expert

Seattle, WA, USA + 3 more

Category
Backend Engineering
Software Engineering
Required Skills
Elixir
Python
JavaScript
Requirements
  • 5+ years of full-time software engineering experience in high growth startups
  • Bachelorā€™s degree in Computer Science, a related field, or equivalent work experience
  • Proven track record of designing and building highly scalable, maintainable systems in multiple languages (we use Python, Elixir, JavaScript, but no specific language is required)
  • Experience with performant, real-time systems such as chat, auctions, and multiplayer games is preferred
  • Excel at translating user needs to effective technical solutions
  • Thrive in ambiguity and tackle challenging problems with autonomy
  • Mentor others and foster inclusive, supportive team culture
  • Own projects holistically from inception to production and beyond
Responsibilities
  • Build the social aspects of Whatnot that foster lasting connections between sellers and buyers
  • Drive building new strategic initiatives, scaling existing experiences, and prototyping ideas to inform the roadmap
  • Strike the right balance between building with speed, product impact, and technical excellence
  • Design with high concurrency, low latency, and stability in mind

Whatnot.com operates as an online marketplace dedicated to collectibles, particularly focusing on items like Funkos and FiGPiNs. The platform ensures that every collectible listed is 100% authentic through a rigorous verification process that includes hand authentication, providing trust and security for both buyers and sellers. It serves a community of collectors and enthusiasts who seek rare and exclusive items from popular franchises such as Marvel Comics and Star Wars. Whatnot.com distinguishes itself from competitors by charging low fees on sales and offering seller protection, which guarantees prompt and secure payments. The company's goal is to create a safe and reliable environment for collectors to buy and sell their prized items.

Company Stage

Series D

Total Funding

$464.7M

Headquarters

Marina del Rey, California

Founded

2019

Growth & Insights
Headcount

6 month growth

ā†‘ 14%

1 year growth

ā†‘ 33%

2 year growth

ā†‘ 89%
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Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • Whatnot's recent $260M Series D funding round and $3.7B valuation highlight its strong financial health and growth potential.
  • Partnerships with major brands like Marvel Comics and Professional Sports Authentication (PSA) enhance Whatnot's credibility and market reach.
  • The expansion into livestream shopping and additional collectible categories indicates a commitment to innovation and market diversification.

What critics are saying

  • The niche focus on collectibles like Funkos and FiGPiNs may limit market size and growth potential compared to broader marketplaces.
  • Rapid expansion and scaling, including the planned increase to over 300 employees, could lead to operational challenges and cultural misalignment.

What makes WhatNot unique

  • Whatnot.com offers the largest collection of 100% authenticated collectibles, ensuring trust and security for buyers and sellers, unlike many competitors.
  • The platform's focus on niche markets like Funkos and FiGPiNs, combined with hand authentication, sets it apart from broader online marketplaces.
  • Whatnot's low fees and seller protection provide a competitive edge, making it an attractive option for both buyers and sellers in the collectibles market.

Benefits

Competitive base salary and stock options

Unlimited Vacation Policy and No Meeting Holidays

Health Insurance options including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Short term disability & Long term Disability

Work From Home Support

Up to $500 monthly to spend within Whatnot App

Care benefits