Lead Backend Developer - Fintech Innovations

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work stipend

Home office setup support

Stock options

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Lead Backend Developer for its fintech division. This remote role offers autonomy to design and build scalable backend systems powering financial tech solutions.

You will lead a team of engineers, shape technical direction, and ensure reliability and security in a remote-first culture. Requirements include 8+ years in backend, 2+ years in leadership, strong Java/Python/Go skills, and experience with PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB, or Cassandra.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of backend development experience, with at least 2 years in a lead role.
• Experience building large-scale distributed systems and microservices architecture.
• Proficient in Java, Python, or Go with related frameworks.
• Relational databases (PostgreSQL/MySQL) and NoSQL databases (MongoDB/Cassandra).
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in fully remote environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of scalable backend services and APIs.
• Architect data models and optimize database performance for high-volume systems.
• Collaborate with product owners, frontend and QA teams to deliver software.
• Mentor backend engineers and promote best practices in the team.
• Implement and maintain CI/CD pipelines for reliable delivery.
• Stay updated on technologies to drive innovation and improvements.

Skills

Backend development

Team leadership

Java

Python

Go

PostgreSQL

MongoDB

MySQL

Cassandra

Architectural design

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Software Eng

Tools

CI/CD pipelines

Distributed systems tooling

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a visionary Lead Backend Developer to spearhead critical projects within their innovative Fintech division. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere. You will take ownership of designing and building scalable, high-performance backend systems that power cutting-edge financial technology solutions. This role requires a deep understanding of software architecture, database management, and the ability to lead a team of talented engineers. You will play a crucial role in shaping the technical direction and ensuring the reliability and security of our client's financial products, working in a remote-first culture that emphasizes autonomy, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of scalable, secure, and robust backend services and APIs for fintech applications.
• Architect complex data models and optimize database performance for high-volume transaction systems.
• Collaborate closely with product owners, frontend developers, and QA teams to deliver high-quality software solutions.
• Mentor and guide a team of backend engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and best practices in Tembisa.
• Implement and maintain CI/CD pipelines, ensuring efficient and reliable software delivery processes.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends to drive innovation and improve existing systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 8+ years of professional experience in backend development, with at least 2 years in a lead or senior architect role.
• Proven expertise in building large-scale distributed systems and microservices architecture.
• Strong command of programming languages such as Java, Python, or Go, and experience with relevant frameworks.
• Extensive experience with relational (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL) and NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Cassandra).
• Demonstrated experience in a fully remote work environment, with excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with performance incentives.
• Stock options and long-term incentive plans.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous annual leave and paid sick leave.
• Remote work stipend and home office setup support.
• Continuous learning opportunities and professional development budget.