Senior Software Engineer (London, Full-Time)
About Birl
Launched in 2024, Birl has quickly become one of the UK’s most exciting circular commerce startups, redefining how resale and recycling can drive growth rather than cost.
Birl’s plug-and-play platform integrates directly into a brand’s e-commerce site or in-store system, enabling customers to trade in pre-loved products for instant store credit. Birl manages the full process – AI verification, logistics, resale, and recycling - giving brands a no-touch circular solution that builds loyalty, generates new revenue, and delivers measurable ESG impact.
Already live with over 10 premium fashion brands including Frahm Jackets, SIRPLUS, and Far Afield, Birl has expanded into sport through partnerships with Castore, Fanatics and West Ham United. These collaborations show that circular retail can scale commercially across multiple sectors.
Backed by Innovate UK and early-stage VCs, and Winner of this year’s UK eCommerce Innovation Award (October 2025), Birl’s vision is to build the technology backbone for a world where every product has more than one life - making circular retail effortless, measurable, and commercially viable.
Position Summary
The Senior Software Engineer will play a central role in building Birl’s platform and leading our engineering capability. E-commerce experience is essential, with premium fashion and logistics experience highly desirable.
This role combines full-stack development (Node.js, React, JavaScript) with mentoring and guiding a small engineering team. Ideal candidates will have experience building scalable e-commerce systems, integrating third-party platforms (e.g., Shopify), and applying AI/ML to enhance performance and automation.
Responsibilities
* Lead and mentor a small engineering team
* Architect and build scalable integrations across the e-commerce ecosystem
* Develop new features and infrastructure using Node.js, React, JavaScript, GCP
* Own and contribute to the technical roadmap
* Maintain high code quality, performance, and reliability
* Communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
* Implement data optimisation strategies
* Apply AI/ML technologies where relevant
* Troubleshoot and resolve issues across systems and integrations
* Improve and participate in agile development practices
* Conduct code reviews and mentor junior engineers
Skills & Qualifications
* Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or similar
* 7+ years full-stack experience with Node.js, React, JavaScript
* Experience integrating e-commerce platforms (e.g., Shopify)
* Experience leading or mentoring engineers
* Strong understanding of Agile and DevOps practices
* Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
* Experience with AI/ML (image recognition, automation, pricing) is a plus
* Familiarity with cloud platforms, microservices, and modern architecture
* Proactive, solution-oriented mindset with a passion for innovation
Logistics
• Work Location: United Kingdom only (London preference)
• Timezone: UTC (London) ± 2 hours
• Working Pattern: Hybrid (up to 3 days remote per week)
• Visa Sponsorship: Not available
Compensation - What You Get
• £60-90k (based on experience)
• Hybrid working with access to our London office
• 33 days paid holiday
• Top-of-the-range laptop
• Pension scheme
• Company away days and regular team socials
Interview Process
1. Application and short cover note
2. Technical test
3. Interview with the engineering team
4. Founder interview
5. Offer