Lead Backend Software Engineer

Randstad New Zealand; Auckland; On-site; NZD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Randstad New Zealand is seeking a Lead Backend Software Engineer to shape the technical strategy of a scalable platform used by thousands of players, retailers and organisers worldwide. You will work closely with the Technical Lead to design distributed systems and ensure reliable, high-performance delivery.

This hands-on leadership role combines architecture, mentorship and cross-functional collaboration with Product and Design to translate long-term vision into scalable solutions, while

Qualifications

• Professional experience building modern backends and APIs in a Senior or Lead capacity.
• Expert-level proficiency in Python and Django (preferred) or similar high-level languages.
• Deep understanding of scalable REST & GraphQL API design and implementation.
• Hands-on experience with AWS, Docker, and Infrastructure as Code (Terraform/AWS CDK).
• Expert knowledge of relational databases (PostgreSQL/MySQL) and distributed architectures.

Responsibilities

• Architect complex, scalable, secure distributed systems.
• Own delivery outcomes across reliability, scalability and performance; guide tech stack choices.
• Mentor engineers and foster ownership and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with Product and Design to translate vision into scalable solutions; use POCs/MVPs.
• Drive CI/CD, DevOps and production observability for operational excellence.

Skills

Python

Django

REST API design

GraphQL

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor Degree

Tools

AWS

Docker

Terraform

AWS CDK

PostgreSQL

MySQL

Job description

We are seeking a Lead Backend Software Engineer to join the digital engine room of a premier organisation. This is a high-impact, hands-on leadership role responsible for the technical strategy and delivery of a platform that enables thousands of players, retailers, and tournament organisers worldwide to compete at scale. You will partner closely with the Technical Lead to design distributed systems and ensure the infrastructure scales sustainably alongside a passionate global consumer base.

About The Role

• Architect: Lead complex system design initiatives for scalable, secure, high-availability distributed systems.


• Lead: Own delivery outcomes across reliability, scalability, and performance while making informed tech stack decisions.


• Mentor: Elevate engineering excellence by coaching engineers and fostering a culture of ownership and continuous improvement.


• Collaborate: Partner with Product and Design to translate long-term vision into scalable solutions using POCs and MVPs.


• Optimise: Drive improvements in CI/CD, DevOps, and production-grade observability to ensure operational excellence.

Skills & Experience Required

• Senior: Professional experience building modern backends and APIs, in a Senior or Lead capacity.


• Backend Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in Python and Django (preferred) or similar high-level languages.


• API Expertise: Deep understanding of scalable REST & GraphQL API design and implementation.


• Cloud & DevOps: Hands-on experience with AWS, Docker, and Infrastructure as Code (Terraform/AWS CDK).


• Data & Systems: Expert knowledge of relational databases (PostgreSQL/MySQL) and experience designing distributed architectures.


• Soft Skills: Proven ability to communicate complex technical ideas to both engineers and non-technical stakeholders.

Company & Culture: This team isn't just building features; they are building the platform that drives a global competitive ecosystem. You will join a "join the crew" culture that values engineering standards, high ownership, and the ability to balance rapid speed with long-term platform sustainability.

At Randstad, we are passionate about providing equal employment opportunities and embracing diversity to the benefit of all. We actively encourage applications from any background.

Django, Python, Rest, GraphQL, ReactJS, Typescript, React, PostgreSQL, MySQL, AWS, Terraform

Qualifications

• Bachelor Degree

education

Bachelor Degree&ICT