Lead Backend Engineer (Python/Django)

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Performance bonus

Medical and dental coverage

Pension fund contribution

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Backend Engineer to drive the core platform from Cape Town. You will design, build, and maintain scalable backend systems in Python/Django, mentor engineers, and shape the technical direction of a fast-growing fintech startup.

You will lead API/microservice development, oversee code quality, and collaborate with product and QA to deliver high-quality features in an agile environment. Cape Town office with competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of backend development experience with Python.
• Extensive Django experience and ecosystem know-how.
• Proven design/build of scalable RESTful APIs.
• Relational DB knowledge (PostgreSQL/MySQL) and data modeling.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of scalable backend services in Python/Django.
• Architect and implement RESTful APIs and microservices for clients.
• Oversee code reviews and enforce coding standards.
• Mentor backend engineers and promote learning.
• Collaborate with frontend, product, and QA teams.

Skills

Python

Django

REST APIs

Leadership

Cloud platforms

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/SE

Tools

RabbitMQ

Kafka

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing fintech startup, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Backend Engineer to spearhead the development of their core platform in Cape Town . This is a critical leadership role where you will be responsible for designing, building, and maintaining robust, scalable, and performant backend systems. You will mentor a talented team of engineers, contribute to architectural decisions, and ensure the delivery of high-quality code. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in backend development, particularly with Python and Django, and a passion for creating innovative financial technology solutions. You will play a key role in shaping the technical direction of the company and contributing to its success in a competitive market. Join us in building the future of finance from the heart of Cape Town .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of scalable, reliable, and maintainable backend services using Python and Django.
• Architect and implement RESTful APIs and microservices that support various client applications.
• Oversee code reviews, ensure adherence to coding standards, and promote best practices in software development.
• Mentor and guide a team of backend engineers, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning.
• Collaborate with frontend developers, product managers, and QA engineers to deliver high-quality features.
• Optimize application performance, database queries, and overall system efficiency.
• Identify and address technical debt, ensuring the long-term health of the codebase.
• Contribute to architectural discussions and strategic technical planning.
• Ensure the security and integrity of sensitive financial data.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex production issues in a timely manner.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of professional experience in backend development with a strong emphasis on Python.
• Extensive experience with the Django web framework and its ecosystem.
• Proven experience in designing and building scalable RESTful APIs.
• Solid understanding of relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL) and database design.
• Experience with microservices architecture and distributed systems.
• Familiarity with message queues (e.g., RabbitMQ, Kafka) and asynchronous task processing.
• Strong knowledge of software testing methodologies and tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) is a plus.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, agile development environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, stock options, and a performance-based bonus structure. Employees receive comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a generous pension fund contribution, and ample paid time off. We support continuous learning with a budget for training, conferences, and certifications. You'll work in a modern, collaborative office space located in Cape Town , with regular social events and a vibrant company culture. This is a fantastic opportunity to grow your career in the exciting fintech industry.