Lead Software Engineer (Backend)

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental coverage

Provident fund

Performance-based bonuses

Hybrid work model

Learning & development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Pretoria is seeking an experienced Lead Software Engineer (Backend) to guide a team in building scalable backend services and APIs. You will set technical direction, mentor engineers, and drive high-availability systems in a fast-paced environment.

You will work with Java, Python, Node.js, Go, or C# across microservices and RESTful APIs, using PostgreSQL/MySQL and NoSQL databases on AWS/Azure/GCP with Docker/Kubernetes. A strong leader with hands-on coding is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years in software development; at least 2 years in lead/senior role.
• Strong expertise in one or more backend languages (Java, Python, Node.js, Go, C#).
• Experience with microservices and RESTful API design.
• Strong DB skills: PostgreSQL/MySQL and NoSQL (MongoDB/Cassandra).
• Cloud and container tech: AWS/Azure/GCP; Docker and Kubernetes.
• Familiar with CI/CD and DevOps practices.
• Excellent problem solving, communication, and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of scalable backend services and APIs.
• Mentor engineers, enforce best practices, and provide technical direction.
• Architect high-availability, fault-tolerant systems.
• Collaborate with product and frontend teams on features.
• Write clean, maintainable code with modern frameworks.
• Conduct code reviews and uphold coding standards.
• Troubleshoot complex production issues and optimize performance.
• Drive security, scalability, and reliability improvements.
• Stay updated on tech trends and advocate relevant adoptions.
• Participate in architectural discussions and roadmap planning.

Skills

Backend leadership

Distributed systems

Java

Python

Node.js

Go

C#

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering

Tools

PostgreSQL

MySQL

MongoDB

Cassandra

AWS

Azure

GCP

Docker

Kubernetes

CI/CD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading software solutions provider in Pretoria , is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Software Engineer specializing in backend development. This is a critical role where you will lead a team of talented engineers in designing, developing, and deploying high-performance, scalable backend systems. You will be responsible for setting technical direction, mentoring junior developers, and ensuring the delivery of robust and efficient software solutions. The ideal candidate possesses a strong command of modern backend technologies, a passion for clean code, and proven leadership abilities. This role offers the chance to architect solutions that power innovative products and services in a fast-paced environment, contributing significantly to the company's technical roadmap. Join us in Pretoria to shape the future of our software offerings.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of scalable and robust backend services and APIs.
• Mentor and guide a team of software engineers, providing technical leadership and fostering best practices.
• Architect and build high-availability, fault-tolerant systems.
• Collaborate with product managers and frontend engineers to define and implement new features.
• Write clean, maintainable, and well-documented code using modern programming languages and frameworks.
• Conduct code reviews, provide constructive feedback, and ensure adherence to coding standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues in production environments.
• Optimize application performance, scalability, and security.
• Stay updated with emerging technologies and industry trends, recommending adoption where appropriate.
• Participate in architectural discussions and contribute to technical roadmap planning.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional software development experience, with at least 2 years in a lead or senior technical role.
• Expertise in one or more backend programming languages such as Java, Python, Node.js, Go, or C#.
• Strong experience with microservices architecture and RESTful API design.
• Proficiency with relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL) and NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Cassandra).
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices.
• Strong understanding of data structures, algorithms, and software design principles.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead and inspire a team.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a generous provident fund, and performance-based bonuses. Employees enjoy a flexible hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a blend of in-office and remote work, access to continuous learning and development opportunities, and participation in exciting, innovative projects. The role is based in our modern offices in Pretoria , providing a collaborative and stimulating work environment.