Lead Backend Software Engineer

About

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and talented Lead Backend Software Engineer to join their innovative development team. This critical role will involve leading the design, development, and maintenance of scalable, high-performance backend systems that power their cutting-edge applications. You will mentor a team of talented engineers, drive technical decision-making, and ensure the delivery of robust, efficient, and secure software solutions. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of backend architecture, database technologies, API design, and best practices in software development. This is an on-site position located in Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA , offering the opportunity for close collaboration with a highly skilled and motivated team.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, testing, and deployment of backend services and APIs using modern programming languages and frameworks.
• Architect and implement scalable, reliable, and performant backend solutions.
• Mentor and guide a team of backend engineers, fostering their technical growth and ensuring code quality.
• Collaborate with frontend developers, product managers, and other stakeholders to define software requirements and translate them into technical designs.
• Optimize application performance, security, and scalability.
• Implement and maintain robust database solutions, ensuring data integrity and efficiency.
• Develop and enforce coding standards, best practices, and CI/CD pipelines.
• Conduct code reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues in production environments.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends in backend development.
• Contribute to technical strategy and roadmap planning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of professional experience in backend software development.
• Proven experience in a technical leadership or lead engineer role.
• Expertise in at least one modern backend programming language (e.g., Python, Java, Go, Node.js).
• Strong experience with relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL) and/or NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Cassandra).
• Deep understanding of API design principles (RESTful, GraphQL) and microservices architecture.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Familiarity with CI/CD tools and practices.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate within an on-site team.
• Experience with agile development methodologies.

Join our team in Bloemfontein, Free State, ZA , and play a key role in shaping the future of our technology platform.