Remote Lead Backend Developer (Python/Django)

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Professional development budget

Flexible work schedule

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Remote Lead Backend Developer to spearhead the design, development, and scaling of our backend services. You will guide a team of engineers, set technical direction, and drive robust, secure systems using Python and Django in a fully remote role.

You will mentor developers, collaborate with product teams, and own API design, performance optimization, and security considerations in a distributed environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience).
• Extensive backend experience with Python and Django.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of scalable backend services using Python and Django.
• Architect robust solutions for complex business problems.
• Mentor and guide a team of backend developers in a remote setting.
• Collaborate with frontend, product, and stakeholders to define requirements and timelines.
• Develop and maintain efficient APIs and data flows.
• Optimize performance, identify bottlenecks, and ensure data security.

Skills

Python

Django

Leadership

REST APIs

PostgreSQL

MySQL

NoSQL

Git

Docker

Kubernetes

CI/CD

Security

Remote work

Tools

Git

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for an experienced and visionary Remote Lead Backend Developer to spearhead the development of our next-generation platform. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere. You will play a pivotal role in designing, building, and scaling our backend services, ensuring robust performance, security, and maintainability. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in Python and Django, a passion for clean code, and a proven track record of leading technical teams. You will be instrumental in setting technical direction, mentoring engineers, and ensuring the successful delivery of complex backend systems. This role requires a proactive, self-motivated individual who thrives in a remote, collaborative environment. You will have the autonomy to make significant technical decisions and influence the future of our technology stack.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of scalable and high-performance backend services using Python and Django.
• Architect robust and maintainable solutions for complex business problems.
• Mentor and guide a team of backend developers, fostering best practices and technical excellence.
• Collaborate with front-end developers, product managers, and other stakeholders to define project requirements and timelines.
• Develop and maintain efficient APIs, ensuring seamless data flow and integration.
• Optimize application performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement solutions.
• Ensure the security and integrity of data and systems.
• Drive the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to improve development processes.
• Conduct thorough code reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues in production environments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Extensive experience in backend development with a strong focus on Python and Django.
• Proven experience in a lead or senior engineering role, with experience mentoring developers.
• Deep understanding of database design and management (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL, NoSQL).
• Experience designing and consuming RESTful APIs.
• Proficiency with version control systems (Git).
• Familiarity with containerization technologies like Docker and orchestration tools like Kubernetes.
• Strong understanding of software development best practices, including testing, CI/CD, and security.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, especially in a remote setting.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a flexible work schedule. Employees benefit from a generous professional development budget, opportunities for career growth, and the ability to work from anywhere. We also offer regular virtual team-building activities, performance bonuses, and a supportive, collaborative work culture focused on innovation and mutual respect.