Backend Team Leader

Datafin Recruitment; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Python Team Lead to join a dynamic telecommunications team. The role involves leading a team of developers, conducting code reviews, and ensuring high-quality software solutions. Candidates must have at least 6 years in software development, strong Python expertise, and leadership experience. This is an opportunity to shape the backend development team and implement innovative solutions in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years in software development.
• Recent experience in a technical leadership role.
• Proficient in Python, specifically with Django and Flask.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of developers to design and maintain software solutions.
• Conduct code reviews and enforce best practices.
• Mentor junior developers and promote continuous learning.

Skills

Python

Django

Flask

Team Management

Problem-solving

Cloud Platforms

SQL Databases

Agile Methodologies

Tools

Docker

CI/CD Pipelines

Job description

Environment

Our client, the UK's most awarded and fastest-growing next‑gen Telco / VoIP provider for small businesses, is looking for an experienced Python Team Lead to join their growing technology team in the telecommunications industry.

The ideal candidate has at least 6 years of software development experience, a strong background in Python, and proven leadership skills.

This role requires technical expertise combined with strategic thinking to deliver scalable, secure, and high‑availability solutions.

The ideal candidate is a natural leader who can energise, motivate and mentor their Backend Development Team to perform at their highest capabilities.

Duties

• Lead a team of developers to design, develop, and maintain robust software solutions.
• Work with other teams to define and build new features.
• Conduct code reviews and enforce best practices to maintain high code quality and performance standards.
• Mentor junior developers and foster a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.
• Drive root cause analysis and resolution of complex software and system issues, especially around scalability and uptime.
• Keep up with the latest industry trends and technologies.
• Oversee the implementation of AI‑based tooling to enhance developer productivity, automate testing, improve system monitoring and streamline operations.

Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years in software development, including recent experience in a technical leadership role.
• Strong Python skills, with expertise in Django and Flask frameworks.
• Experience with cloud platforms (preferably Google Cloud), Docker, and CI / CD pipelines.
• Proficient with SQL databases.
• Knowledge of Agile methodologies and collaborative project management tools.

Attributes

• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
• Strong leadership, team management, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced and high‑availability environment.