Lead Software Engineer (Backend)

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Comprehensive medical and dental cover

Hybrid work model offering flexibility

Pension fund contributions

Performance bonuses

Modern office facilities in Midrand, G

Hybrid work model offering flexibility

Pension fund contributions

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Software Engineer (Backend) in Midrand, Gauteng, for a hybrid role combining in-office collaboration with remote flexibility. You will lead a team of developers, architect scalable backend systems, set standards, and mentor engineers to deliver robust software solutions.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in backend development, leadership experience, and strong skills across Python/Java/Go/Node.js, databases, RESTful APIs, and cloud platforms.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of professional backend software development experience.
• Proven experience leading a software development team.
• Proficiency in Python, Java, Go, or Node.js.
• Strong understanding of database technologies and ORM frameworks.
• Experience with RESTful APIs.
• Familiarity with microservices and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a hybrid work environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and maintenance of scalable backend services and APIs.
• Mentor and guide a team of software engineers.
• Define and enforce coding standards and code review processes.
• Architect robust database solutions with data integrity and performance.
• Collaborate with frontend, product managers, and stakeholders on features and tech requirements.
• Identify and address performance bottlenecks and technical debt.
• Contribute to technology selection and tool guidance for backend development.
• Participate in architectural discussions and contribute to the tech roadmap.
• Ensure security and scalability of backend systems.

Skills

Backend design

Team leadership

RESTful APIs

Microservices

Database knowledge

Cloud platforms experience

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Software Engineering or related field

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a dynamic and innovative technology company looking for a talented Lead Software Engineer specializing in backend development to join their team in Midrand, Gauteng . This hybrid role offers the best of both worlds, combining collaborative in-office days with the flexibility of remote work. You will lead a team of skilled developers, architecting and building high-performance, scalable backend systems that power our client's cutting-edge products. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact, driving technical strategy and mentoring junior engineers. The ideal candidate is a passionate problem-solver with a proven track record of delivering robust software solutions. You will be instrumental in defining coding standards, code reviews, and the overall technical direction of backend projects. We foster a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and professional growth, providing ample opportunities for learning and career advancement within a supportive environment. If you are looking to lead and inspire a team while working on challenging and rewarding projects, this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and maintenance of scalable and reliable backend services and APIs.
• Mentor and guide a team of software engineers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
• Define and enforce coding standards, best practices, and code review processes.
• Architect robust and efficient database solutions, ensuring data integrity and performance.
• Collaborate closely with frontend developers, product managers, and other stakeholders to define product features and technical requirements.
• Identify and address performance bottlenecks and technical debt.
• Contribute to the selection of appropriate technologies and tools for backend development.
• Participate in architectural discussions and contribute to the overall technical roadmap.
• Ensure the security and scalability of backend systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of professional experience in backend software development.
• Proven experience leading a software development team.
• Proficiency in one or more backend programming languages such as Python, Java, Go, or Node.js.
• Strong understanding of database technologies (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB) and ORM frameworks.
• Experience with building and consuming RESTful APIs.
• Familiarity with microservices architecture and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) is a plus.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a hybrid work environment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage.
• Opportunities for professional development and certifications.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Collaborative and innovative work culture.
• Pension fund contributions.
• Performance bonuses.
• Modern office facilities in Midrand, Gauteng .