Lead Full-Stack Developer (React & Node.js)

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Remote work stipend

Medical aid

Share options

Learning & development

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town, a fintech startup, seeks a Lead Full-Stack Developer for a hybrid role. You will own the architecture and implementation of our core platform, mentor a team of engineers, and drive technical decisions to deliver robust, scalable software.

This leadership position offers collaborative growth in a fast-paced, innovative environment in the Cape Town tech scene. You will build in React and Node.js, design RESTful APIs and chosen microservices, work with databases and cloud

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in full-stack development with React and Node.js.
• Proven experience leading development teams and mentoring engineers.
• Experience designing and building RESTful APIs; understanding GraphQL.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy scalable web applications using React (frontend) and Node.js (backend).
• Lead and mentor a team of full-stack developers; provide code reviews.
• Architect and implement robust APIs and microservices.
• Collaborate with product management and design to translate requirements into technical specifications.
• Optimize performance and ensure cross-device responsiveness.
• Implement and maintain CI/CD pipelines for testing and deployment.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and technology selection.
• Troubleshoot and resolve production issues; promote code quality.

Skills

React

Node.js

Leadership

REST APIs

GraphQL

Databases

Cloud platforms

Docker

Kubernetes

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

PostgreSQL

MongoDB

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly growing fintech startup in Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA , is looking for an exceptional Lead Full-Stack Developer . This hybrid role offers a dynamic work environment, combining the benefits of in-office collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. You will spearhead the development of our core platform, taking ownership of both front-end and back-end architecture and implementation. This is a crucial leadership position where you will mentor a team of talented engineers, drive technical decision-making, and ensure the delivery of high‑quality, scalable software solutions. If you are passionate about building robust applications and leading innovative projects, this is the opportunity for you. We are committed to fostering a collaborative and productive work atmosphere that encourages professional growth and technical excellence within the vibrant tech scene of Cape Town .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy scalable, high‑performance web applications using React for the front-end and Node.js for the back-end.
• Lead and mentor a team of full‑stack developers, providing technical guidance and code reviews.
• Architect and implement robust APIs and microservices.
• Collaborate with product management and design teams to translate business requirements into technical specifications and elegant solutions.
• Optimize application performance and ensure responsiveness across various devices and browsers.
• Implement and maintain CI/CD pipelines for automated testing and deployment.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and technology selection.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues in production environments.
• Promote best practices in software development, including unit testing, integration testing, and code quality.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in full‑stack development, with a strong emphasis on React and Node.js.
• Proven experience leading development teams and mentoring junior engineers.
• Expertise in designing and building RESTful APIs and understanding of GraphQL.
• Proficiency with relational and NoSQL databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MongoDB).
• Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.
• Strong understanding of software architecture patterns and design principles.
• Familiarity with containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes.
• Excellent problem‑solving and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, comfortable working in a hybrid team environment.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a generous share options package.
• Employees benefit from a hybrid work model, providing a healthy work‑life balance.
• You will have access to continuous learning and development opportunities, including conference attendance and online courses.
• Join a stimulating and inclusive work environment in Cape Town that values innovation and teamwork.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a fast‑growing company are abundant.
• We also offer a remote work stipend for home office setup and ongoing support.