Python AWS Software Engineer - Johannesburg - Hybrid - R1m PA

ATS Client; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Job summary

ATS Client seeks an experienced Senior Backend Software Engineer to design and build scalable, cloud-native services using Python (FastAPI) and AWS. You will contribute to architecture decisions, implement robust microservices, and drive reliable CI/CD pipelines in a containerized environment.

The role requires 6+ years of backend experience, Terraform expertise, and strong knowledge of relational databases.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of backend software development and project delivery experience.
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Skills

Python FastAPI

AWS

Microservices

REST/GRPC

Databases

CI/CD

Observability

Docker

Kubernetes

Cloud Security

Education

Information Technology degree (preferred)

Tools

Terraform

GitHub Actions

GitLab CI

Jenkins

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Senior Backend Software Engineer with strong Python (FastAPI) and AWS expertise to join a high‑performing engineering team delivering scalable, cloud‑native systems.

This role is ideal for a technically strong engineer who enjoys building modern backend platforms and contributing to architectural decisions.

Requirements:

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Information Technology or a related field (preferred)
• 6+ years' proven experience in backend software development and project delivery
• Strong proficiency in Python (FastAPI) for backend services and scripting
• Deep experience with AWS cloud services, including:
  • IAM, EKS, RDS, MSK/Kafka, Lambda, ElastiCache
• Hands‑on expertise with Terraform, including:
  • Modules, state management, and environment‑specific provisioning
• Solid understanding of microservices architecture, REST/gRPC APIs, and event‑driven design
• Proficiency with relational databases (PostgreSQL, SQL Server, MySQL)
• Experience building and maintaining CI/CD pipelines using tools such as GitHub Actions, GitLab CI, Jenkins, or similar
• Strong knowledge of containerization and orchestration (Docker, Kubernetes)
• Familiarity with monitoring and observability tools such as Instana, Prometheus, Grafana, and OpenTelemetry

Nice‑to‑Have (Bonus Skills):

• Proficiency in gRPC and concurrency patterns
• Knowledge of the Kafka ecosystem, including Kafka Streams, schema registries, and the outbox pattern
• Experience with AWS infrastructure cost optimization
• Familiarity with Agile methodologies and Kanban delivery
• Prior exposure to cloud security best practices

The Reference Number for this position is GZ61010

This is a contract role based in Johannesburg, offering a cost‑to‑company salary of up to R1m per annum, negotiable based on experience and ability.