Director of Software Engineering

Company: Antler
Location: New York
Posted on: June 1, 2025

Job Description:

Company Overview: Dune Security is the world's first User Adaptive Risk Management solution. Powered by AI, we quantify employee risk with comprehensive data and automatically deliver user-adaptive training and intervention. For higher-risk users, our platform integrates seamlessly with the broader security stack to dynamically implement controls. Backed by Craft Ventures, Toba Capital, Alumni Ventures, Firestreak Ventures, and Antler, we empower CISOs to proactively manage human risk-the leading cause of cybersecurity breaches-and build safer, more resilient organizations.Role Overview: We are seeking an exceptional Director of Software Engineering to lead the development and execution of our engineering strategy while remaining deeply involved in the design and delivery of scalable, high-performance backend systems. This is a unique opportunity to lead a high-impact engineering function at an early stage, venture-backed cybersecurity startup tackling one of the most pressing problems in the enterprise: human risk.As a leader at Dune, you will define our architectural direction, grow and mentor a high-performing engineering team, and work cross-functionally to ensure our technical execution aligns tightly with business goals. You'll play a pivotal role in shaping our platform, driving product velocity, and embedding security into every layer of our technology stack.Key Responsibilities:Engineering Leadership

• Define and drive the engineering vision, strategy, and roadmap in alignment with company objectives.
• Lead architecture and implementation for a cloud-native, secure, scalable SaaS platform.
• Foster a high-performing, collaborative engineering culture rooted in ownership, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Build and mentor a diverse team of backend and frontend engineers, setting clear expectations, career growth paths, and performance standards.
• Champion technical innovation and experimentation to maintain a competitive edge in AI-powered cybersecurity.Architecture & Technical Execution
  • Architect and implement scalable systems using Python (Django), Go, and cloud-native infrastructure (AWS).
  • Oversee database design for both relational (PostgreSQL) and NoSQL (MongoDB), ensuring reliability and performance at scale.
  • Drive system reliability, observability, and performance optimization using modern DevOps practices and tools (Docker, GitLab, Terraform, CI/CD).
  • Enforce security best practices at every layer-auth/auth (OAuth 2.0, JWT, SAML/SCIM), secure coding, and DevSecOps integration.
  • Ensure infrastructure is robust, elastic, and cost-effective using services like EC2, Lambda, RDS, S3, CloudFront, and CloudWatch.Cross-Functional Collaboration
    • Work closely with Product, Design, and GTM teams to define priorities, estimate delivery timelines, and bring product features to life.
    • Partner with executive leadership to align engineering goals with business strategy and communicate progress with clarity.Process Optimization
      • Standardize and improve engineering processes to support agile, high-velocity development cycles.
      • Implement systems for high-quality code review, release management, incident response, and technical documentation.Qualifications:
        • 8+ years of experience in software engineering with at least 4 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Director of Engineering, Head of Engineering, or CTO) at a high-growth startup or enterprise software company.
        • Expert-level backend development experience with Python (Django) and production-grade use of Go.
        • Deep familiarity with AWS services including EC2, Lambda, RDS, S3, CloudFront, Secrets Manager, API Gateway, etc.
        • Proven experience designing and deploying secure, distributed systems at scale in cloud environments.
        • Strong DevOps and automation background (Docker, GitLab CI/CD, Terraform, CloudFormation).
        • Fluency in modern authentication and security protocols (OAuth 2.0, JWT, SAML/SCIM).
        • Experience building or leading frontend teams using React and Material UI is a plus.
        • Experience integrating or building data visualization tools (e.g., Recharts, D3.js) is a bonus.
        • Exceptional leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
        • BS in Computer Science or related field (MS preferred).What You'll Bring:
          • Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to work independently and lead initiatives within cross-functional teams.
          • Technical Depth: Strong technical foundation, with an ability to dive deep into architectural decisions and influence product development.
          • Adaptability: Thrives in an agile environment, balancing multiple priorities with ease while delivering high-quality outcomes.
          • Passion for Cybersecurity: Genuine enthusiasm for building solutions that address human risks and empower organizations to improve their security posture.Additional Details:
            • Location: NYC. Candidates should reside within a commutable distance of our Soho, Manhattan office.
            • Hours: Full time.Joining Dune Security means embracing a unique opportunity to shape the future of cybersecurity. If you're passionate about innovation and ready to take on significant responsibility, we encourage you to apply.Note: Dune Security is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
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Keywords: Antler, North Bergen , Director of Software Engineering, Executive , New York, New Jersey