Lead Software Engineer (Backend)

Placements24; Kempton Park; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Lead Software Engineer (Backend) to design, develop, and maintain robust server-side applications and APIs in a hybrid role. You will lead a team of engineers, mentoring junior staff, and drive architectural excellence and innovation within a collaborative environment.

Ideal candidates have 6+ years in backend development, strong knowledge of Python/Java/Go, and experience with relational/noSQL databases and microservices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• 6+ years of professional backend experience with at least 2 years in lead or mentoring roles.
• Proficiency in backend languages such as Python, Java, Node.js, or Go.
• Strong experience with relational (PostgreSQL, MySQL) and/or NoSQL databases.
• Familiarity with microservices, RESTful APIs, and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead backend service and API design and implementation using modern architecture.
• Mentor junior and mid-level engineers to foster technical excellence.
• Write clean, well-documented, thoroughly tested code in Python, Java, or Go.
• Collaborate with product managers and frontend engineers on requirements and features.
• Oversee code reviews and ensure maintainability and performance standards.
• Troubleshoot complex production issues.

Skills

Python

Java

Go

Node.js

Relational databases

NoSQL databases

Microservices

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

PostgreSQL

MySQL

MongoDB

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a seasoned Lead Software Engineer specializing in backend development to join their dynamic team in Tembisa. This hybrid role offers a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, allowing you to contribute effectively to high-impact projects. You will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining robust server-side applications and APIs, leading a team of talented engineers, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, scalable software solutions. This position is ideal for an experienced developer who is passionate about mentorship, architectural excellence, and driving technical innovation within a collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of backend services and APIs using modern technologies and architectural patterns.
• Mentor and guide junior and mid-level software engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.
• Write clean, efficient, well-documented, and thoroughly tested code in languages such as Python, Java, or Go.
• Collaborate with product managers and frontend engineers to define technical requirements and deliver new features.
• Oversee code reviews, ensuring adherence to coding standards and best practices for maintainability and performance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues in production environments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• 6+ years of professional experience in backend software development, with at least 2 years in a lead or mentoring role.
• Proficiency in one or more backend programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, Node.js, Go).
• Strong experience with relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL) and/or NoSQL databases.
• Familiarity with microservices architecture, RESTful APIs, and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and communication skills.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary and performance bonuses.
• Hybrid work model promoting work-life balance.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Opportunities for professional growth and continuous learning.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Access to a collaborative and innovative work environment.