Co-Founder / Lead Software Developer for Tomoka

Location: Remote / Bali Preferred (or flexible)

About Tomoka: Tomoka is an exciting new project aimed at making learning kanji accessible, affordable, and visually engaging for everyone. Inspired by platforms like WaniKani, Tomoka is a web application designed to help users master kanji, radicals, and vocabulary using a gamified approach. The vision is to create an engaging tool that makes learning kanji both efficient and enjoyable.

Role Overview: I'm looking for a driven and passionate Co-Founder with strong software development skills to join me in building Tomoka from the ground up. As a technical co-founder, you'll be responsible for the full-stack development of the platform. You should be comfortable taking ownership of all aspects of the technical development, from initial architecture to deployment, while collaborating closely with me on product vision and growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Take complete ownership of the development and deployment of the Tomoka platform.
• Design, build, and maintain a full-stack application, including frontend (React, Tailwind CSS) and backend (Node.js, Express.js).
• Develop and manage the MongoDB database for storing kanji, user progress, and related information.
• Integrate third-party APIs (e.g., Kanji Alive API) to provide enriched kanji data.
• Create a responsive, engaging user interface that provides lessons, reviews, and tracks user progress.
• Collaborate with me to refine and execute the product roadmap and long-term vision for Tomoka.
• Ensure scalability, security, and performance standards for the platform.

What I'm Looking For:

• Technical Expertise: Proficiency in JavaScript, React, Node.js, Express, and MongoDB. Experience with REST APIs and integrating third-party services.
• Full-Stack Experience: Ability to build both the frontend and backend from scratch, creating a seamless, dynamic experience for users.
• Problem Solver: Someone who thrives in a start-up environment, takes initiative, and finds creative solutions to challenges.
• Visionary Partner: Someone who is equally excited about the idea of making Japanese language learning accessible and has the energy and passion to take this vision forward.
• Communication Skills: Strong communicator who can explain technical aspects clearly and work collaboratively with me on product direction.

Preferred but Not Required:

• Previous experience working on EdTech or language-learning platforms.
• Interest in Japanese culture, language, or education.
• Familiarity with gamification concepts in app development.

Why Join Tomoka?:

• Co-Founder Opportunity: Be an equal partner in shaping the future of Tomoka.
• Freedom to Innovate: Take full ownership of the technical stack and work in a way that excites you.
• Flexibility: Remote work is totally fine, and if you’re in or open to Bali, we can work closely together.
• Meaningful Mission: Be part of something that helps people learn a new language and opens doors to Japanese culture.
• Profit Sharing and Equity: This is not a salaried position. You will be compensated through profit-sharing and company ownership once the product is launched.

If you’re excited to co-create a platform that makes kanji learning accessible and fun, let’s connect! Please reach out with your background, experience, and why you’re interested in Tomoka. I’d love to hear from you and see if we can bring this vision to life together.

How to Apply: Email me at [email protected] with a short introduction, your resume, and anything else that shows why you're the right person to join Tomoka.