Remote Senior Backend Engineer (Python)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Stock options

Professional development budget

Flexible schedule

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Backend Engineer with strong Python expertise to design and implement scalable backend systems in a remote-first setup. You will build robust RESTful APIs, work with PostgreSQL and Redis, and collaborate with a global team to deliver high-quality financial technology services from anywhere, with a base in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

The role emphasizes asynchronous collaboration, autonomy, and trust, with opportunities for professional growth and a competitive

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of backend development experience with Python.
• Proven experience with Django or Flask.
• Experience with PostgreSQL and Redis.
• RESTful API design experience.
• Cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.
• Docker experience is a plus.
• Proficiency in unit and integration testing.
• Strong communication for asynchronous collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain scalable, high-performance backend services using Python and frameworks like Django or Flask.
• Build and manage robust RESTful APIs to support front-end apps and third-party integrations.
• Work with relational and NoSQL databases (PostgreSQL, Redis) for efficient data handling.
• Write clean, well-documented, and testable code.
• Collaborate with frontend, product, and other stakeholders in a remote setting.
• Participate in code reviews and mentor junior engineers.
• Contribute to backend architecture decisions and technology choices.
• Ensure the security, integrity, and availability of the platform.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex backend issues to minimize downtime.

Skills

Python

REST API design

Django/Flask

PostgreSQL

Redis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Docker

AWS/Azure/GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a fast-paced fintech startup, is seeking a talented Senior Backend Engineer specializing in Python to join their entirely remote engineering team. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on a cutting-edge platform, contributing to the development of scalable and reliable financial services applications. As a remote-first company, we emphasize asynchronous communication, autonomy, and trust. You will play a key role in designing and implementing robust backend systems, building efficient APIs, and ensuring the performance and scalability of our services. This role is perfect for an experienced engineer who thrives in a distributed team environment and is passionate about building high-quality software. You'll be working with a global team, contributing to a product that's revolutionizing the financial industry, all from the comfort of your own location, with our operational base in Stellenbosch, Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain scalable, high-performance backend services using Python and relevant frameworks (e.g., Django, Flask).
• Build and manage robust RESTful APIs to support front-end applications and third-party integrations.
• Work with relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL) and NoSQL databases (e.g., Redis) to manage data efficiently.
• Implement and optimize database schemas and queries for performance and scalability.
• Write clean, maintainable, well-documented, and testable code.
• Collaborate effectively with front-end developers, product managers, and other stakeholders in a remote setting.
• Participate in code reviews, provide constructive feedback, and mentor junior engineers.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and technology selections for backend systems.
• Ensure the security, integrity, and availability of our platform.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex backend issues, ensuring minimal downtime.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years of professional experience in backend development, with a strong focus on Python.
• Proven experience with web frameworks like Django or Flask.
• Deep understanding of database design and management (SQL and NoSQL).
• Experience designing and consuming RESTful APIs.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.
• Experience with containerization technologies like Docker is a plus.
• Proficiency in writing unit and integration tests.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently in a remote environment.
• Strong communication skills, with proficiency in asynchronous collaboration tools.

Benefits

This is a fully remote position offering a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, and a flexible work schedule. You will have the opportunity to work with a talented, globally distributed team on exciting fintech products. Our client provides a generous budget for professional development, including courses, conferences, and certifications. We foster a culture of innovation, autonomy, and continuous learning. Enjoy the flexibility of working from anywhere while being part of a dynamic and growing company with roots connected to Stellenbosch, Western Cape. Benefits include performance bonuses, stock options, and ample paid time off, promoting an excellent work-life balance for our remote employees.