Backend Developer

Somewhere; Wes-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking a backend developer to join their high-ownership engineering team. You will design and maintain backend infrastructure for a new SaaS social platform, collaborating with various stakeholders and ensuring robust services. The role requires strong experience in backend development and the ability to work independently, with a focus on scalable solutions.

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in backend development.
• Strong experience with Node.js / NestJS or Python / FastAPI.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain backend systems using Node.js / NestJS or Python / FastAPI.
• Design scalable APIs and integrate with third-party services.

Skills

Backend Development

Collaboration

Problem Solving

Tools

Node.js

Python

NestJS

FastAPI

Job description

Working Hours : Full-time with overlap during 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Central Time (CT)

Salary Range : $1,000–$1,300 / month

Type of Contract : Independent Contractor

About the Role :

We’re hiring a backend developer to join a high-ownership engineering team building a new SaaS social platform from scratch. You’ll be responsible for designing and maintaining the backend infrastructure, working directly with the founder to create robust and scalable services.

Key Responsibilities :

Build and maintain backend systems using Node.js / NestJS or Python / FastAPI .

Design scalable APIs and integrate with third-party services including OpenAI / LLM APIs , vector databases , real-time messaging , and payment gateways .

Own the backend architecture, deployment, monitoring, and optimization.

Collaborate with frontend developers, QA testers, and other stakeholders.

Participate in daily Zoom standups, weekly sprint planning, and async updates via Slack and Notion.

Solve backend issues independently and suggest architectural improvements.

Occasionally handle urgent hotfixes on weekends if critical issues arise.

Requirements :

5+ years of experience in backend development with consumer-facing or high-traffic platforms.

Strong experience with Node.js / NestJS or Python / FastAPI .

Deep understanding of REST APIs, databases, authentication, and cloud deployments.

Fluent in English (written and verbal), with strong collaboration skills.

Able to work independently and handle early-stage infrastructure challenges.

Must be located in the Philippines or South Africa and available to work during CT hours.

Nice-to-Have :

AWS or Google Cloud certifications (Developer Associate, Solutions Architect, etc.).

Experience integrating AI tools, messaging systems, or payments in production environments.

Prior experience building backend systems for early-stage startups.

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