loading . . . Apply to be the OpenStreetMap Core Software Engineer OpenStreetMap powers maps and services used by millions of people around the world every day. To better support the community that makes this possible, the OpenStreetMap Foundation is seeking a dedicated mid- to senior-level software engineer with a passion for open data, collaborative software, and digital commons.
The ideal candidate is proficient in modern Web development (frontend and backend), experienced with open source collaboration, and comfortable working in public repositories with community feedback.
Your main responsibilities will focus on the openstreetmap.org website and its underlying API-a critical part of the infrastructure powering a global mapping movement. Your work will directly support an ecosystem of tools used by tens of thousands of contributors monthly, producing map data relied upon by millions worldwide.
You will collaborate closely with the OSMF’s Core Software Development Facilitator (CSDF). This position is made possible through funding from the Sovereign Tech Fund.
We strongly encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, especially those underrepresented in open source and geospatial communities.
## Scope of work
The engineer will primarily contribute to the openstreetmap-website, with responsibilities divided into the following two categories:
#### Core Responsibilities
* Analyze and understand the existing architecture and codebase of openstreetmap-website
* Collaborate with the CSDF and project maintainers to define and prioritize development goals
* Design and implement features that enhance the platform and empower community contributions
* Triage and resolve issues reported by users and review incoming pull requests
* Over time, the engineer may assume responsibility for deeper infrastructural areas and contribute to the long-term maintainability of the platform.
#### Collaboration & Communication
* Maintain open and frequent communication with the CSDF and project maintainers through GitHub, mailing lists, and real-time chat
* Participate in public discussions, support issue triage, and assist in release planning
* Help document development workflows, decisions, and architecture changes
## Profile
#### Required Qualifications
* Proficiency with Ruby on Rails
* At least 3 years of professional Web development or related software engineering experience
* Experience working with large-scale, production-ready codebases (OpenStreetMap serves as much as 13 TB of data, growing all the time)
* Experience collaborating in open source projects, working in public repositories, and engaging with contributors
* Willingness to learn and use technologies in the stack as needed (e.g., JavaScript, SQL)
#### Preferred Qualifications
* Previous contributions to OpenStreetMap (as a mapper or developer)
* Enthusiasm for engaging with users of open source tools and platforms
* Strong technical communication skills, especially in asynchronous, text-based environments (GitHub, chat)
* Have previous experience with geospatial software and/or data
## Contracting structure
Location: **Remote (global)**
This freelance/contractor position is available immediately, at approximately 80% time. It is funded through the end of 2026 by the Sovereign Tech Fund. Continuation will be evaluated based on impact and future funding availability.
The person will work from their premises and set their own schedule. However, your working hours will need to overlap at least minimally with those of the CSDF, who is based in the UTC–7/8 time zone. As the OSMF is a global organisation, working with people in different time zones and handling related scheduling constraints is expected. Communication will be in English.
To apply for this position, please send your CV with a cover letter to the OSMF Personnel Committee at [email protected].
**We look forward to hearing from you!** https://blog.openstreetmap.org/2025/08/01/apply-to-be-the-openstreetmap-core-software-engineer/
