Lead Software Engineer - Backend

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development opportunities

Stock options for senior leadership

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Software Engineer (Backend) in Klerksdorp, North West, to lead a team delivering scalable backend systems. Focus on architecture, performance, security, and mentoring junior engineers in a fintech environment.

Responsibilities include guiding API design, microservices implementation, and collaborating with product teams to define technical specs. Strong leadership and deep backend expertise are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field or equivalent experience.
• 8+ years of professional software development experience with strong backend focus.
• Proven experience leading software teams and projects.
• Expertise in at least one major backend language (Java, C#, Go, Python) and frameworks.
• Deep understanding of microservices, RESTful APIs, and SQL/NoSQL databases.
• Experience with cloud platforms and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Strong knowledge of design patterns, data structures, and algorithms.
• Excellent problem-solving and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of scalable backend services and APIs.
• Architect robust, maintainable backend solutions using modern technologies.
• Mentor and guide a team of engineers, promoting technical excellence.
• Ensure code quality via reviews, testing, and best practices.
• Collaborate with product managers to define requirements and specs.
• Optimize performance and scalability for large user bases.
• Drive adoption of new technologies and methodologies.
• Troubleshoot complex production issues.
• Contribute to technical strategy and product roadmap.
• Ensure security and integrity of financial data handled by systems.

Skills

Team leadership

Backend architecture

Microservices

RESTful APIs

Distributed systems

Performance optimization

Secure coding

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering or equivalent

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

AWS/Azure/GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in financial technology, is searching for an experienced Lead Software Engineer with a specialization in backend development to join their team in **Klerksdorp, North West**. This critical role involves leading a team of talented engineers in the design, development, and maintenance of highly scalable and robust backend systems. You will be responsible for architectural decisions, code quality, and mentoring junior developers. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of distributed systems, performance optimization, and secure coding practices. If you are passionate about building cutting-edge financial solutions and leading high-performing teams, this opportunity in **Klerksdorp** is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of scalable, high-performance backend services and APIs.
• Architect robust and maintainable solutions using modern backend technologies (e.g., Java, C#, Go, Python).
• Mentor and guide a team of software engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Ensure code quality through rigorous code reviews, testing, and adherence to best practices.
• Collaborate with product managers and cross-functional teams to define requirements and technical specifications.
• Optimize application performance and scalability for large user bases.
• Drive the adoption of new technologies and methodologies within the engineering team.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues in production environments.
• Contribute to the overall technical strategy and roadmap of the product.
• Ensure the security and integrity of financial data handled by the systems in the **North West**.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 8+ years of professional software development experience, with a strong focus on backend systems.
• Proven experience leading software engineering teams and projects.
• Expertise in at least one major backend programming language (e.g., Java, C#, Go, Python) and associated frameworks.
• Deep understanding of microservices architecture, RESTful APIs, and database technologies (SQL and NoSQL).
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Strong understanding of software design patterns, data structures, and algorithms.
• Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and analytical skills.
• Exceptional communication and leadership abilities, crucial for collaboration in **Klerksdorp**.
• Experience in the FinTech industry is a significant advantage.

A commitment to building high-quality, reliable software.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment.
• The opportunity to work on challenging and impactful projects in **Klerksdorp, North West**.
• Generous paid time off.
• Stock options available for senior leadership.