Lead Software Engineer (Backend)

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,450,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Stock options

Health, dental, vision insurance

Professional development

Team events

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Software Engineer for backend development in Randburg, Gauteng. You will lead a team to design, develop, and deploy scalable microservices and APIs, with a focus on security, performance, and reliability.

The role requires 7+ years of backend experience, strong leadership, and hands-on expertise with Python/Java/Go/Node.js, Docker/Kubernetes, and cloud platforms. Hybrid work with remote flexibility is offered.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of professional backend software development experience.
• Proven experience leading and mentoring engineering teams.
• Expertise in microservices architectures and RESTful APIs.
• Strong proficiency in at least one modern backend language (Python, Java, Go, Node.js).
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Solid understanding of SQL and NoSQL databases and data modeling.
• Experience with message queues (RabbitMQ, Kafka) and caching.
• Familiarity with CI/CD tools and practices.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and architectural design skills.
• Strong communication and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and maintenance of scalable backend microservices and APIs.
• Mentor and guide a team of backend engineers, fostering technical excellence.
• Collaborate with product managers and frontend teams to define technical requirements.
• Architect robust, secure backend solutions on cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP).
• Write clean, well-tested code in Python, Java, Go, or Node.js.
• Implement and manage CI/CD pipelines for automated testing and deployment.
• Optimize performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements.
• Ensure data and systems security and integrity.
• Participate in code reviews and provide constructive feedback.
• Stay current with emerging backend technologies and best practices.

Skills

Backend design

Mentoring

Microservices

Cloud platforms

CI/CD pipelines

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in CS/Engineering

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

AWS

Azure

GCP

RabbitMQ

Kafka

Job description

About the Role Our client, a rapidly expanding fintech startup, is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Lead Software Engineer specializing in backend development to join their dynamic team in Randburg, Gauteng . This pivotal role involves leading a team of talented engineers in designing, developing, and deploying scalable and robust backend systems that power our innovative financial platforms. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of microservices architecture, cloud technologies, and best practices in software development. This hybrid position offers a collaborative office environment in Randburg combined with remote flexibility. We are looking for a technical leader with exceptional problem-solving skills, a passion for mentoring, and a commitment to delivering high-quality, secure, and performant solutions. You will play a critical role in shaping the future of our technology stack and driving engineering excellence within our growing organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and maintenance of scalable backend microservices and APIs.
• Mentor and guide a team of backend software engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with product managers, frontend engineers, and other stakeholders to define technical requirements and deliver features.
• Architect robust, secure, and efficient solutions using cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Write clean, maintainable, and well-tested code in languages such as Python, Java, Go, or Node.js.
• Implement and manage CI/CD pipelines for automated testing and deployment.
• Optimize application performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions.
• Ensure the security and integrity of data and systems.
• Participate in code reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Stay current with emerging backend technologies and industry best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 7+ years of professional experience in backend software development.
• Proven experience leading and mentoring engineering teams.
• Expertise in designing and building microservices architectures and RESTful APIs.
• Strong proficiency in at least one modern backend programming language (e.g., Python, Java, Go, Node.js).
• Experience with cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Solid understanding of database technologies (SQL and NoSQL) and data modeling.
• Experience with message queues (e.g., RabbitMQ, Kafka) and caching mechanisms.
• Familiarity with CI/CD tools and practices.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and architectural design skills.
• Strong communication and leadership abilities.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Opportunity to lead technical direction at a fast-growing fintech company.
• Work on cutting-edge financial technology solutions.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous stock options package.
• Professional development opportunities and conference attendance.
• Vibrant office culture with regular team events.