Senior Backend Engineer - API Development

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 850,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Health insurance

Development budget

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Backend Engineer to lead API development in a remote-friendly setup. You will design, build, and maintain scalable APIs for digital products, collaborating with cross-functional teams in Randburg or remotely.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years in backend development, strong API design skills, and experience with cloud platforms and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in computer science, engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of professional backend development experience.
• Strong proficiency in at least one backend language (Python, Node.js, Java, Go).
• Extensive experience designing and building RESTful APIs.
• Solid understanding of SQL/NoSQL databases and caching mechanisms.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain RESTful APIs and microservices.
• Optimize performance of APIs, queries, and architecture for scalability.
• Write clean, well-tested code following best practices.
• Collaborate with frontend, product managers, and stakeholders on API requirements.
• Implement security measures and data protection for APIs.
• Mentor junior engineers and participate in code reviews.

Skills

API design

Backend development

RESTful APIs

Microservices

Performance optimization

Security best practices

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

AWS

SQL

NoSQL

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Backend Engineer with a strong focus on API development to join their dynamic technology team. This role is crucial for designing, building, and maintaining scalable, high-performance APIs that serve as the backbone of our client's digital products. You will work in a collaborative, remote-first environment, contributing to the architecture and implementation of robust backend services. If you are passionate about creating efficient, secure, and well-documented APIs and thrive in a culture that values innovation and technical excellence, this opportunity in Randburg (or anywhere remotely) is ideal for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain RESTful APIs and microservices using modern languages and frameworks.
• Optimize application performance, database queries, and system architecture for scalability and reliability.
• Write clean, maintainable, and well-tested code, adhering to industry best practices.
• Collaborate with frontend developers, product managers, and other stakeholders to define API requirements and specifications.
• Implement robust security measures and data protection protocols for APIs.
• Participate in code reviews, provide technical guidance, and mentor junior engineers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• 5+ years of professional experience in backend development.
• Strong proficiency in at least one backend programming language (e.g., Python, Node.js, Java, Go).
• Extensive experience designing and building RESTful APIs.
• Solid understanding of database technologies (SQL and NoSQL) and caching mechanisms.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive annual salary and performance bonuses.
• Fully remote working arrangement, offering significant flexibility.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous budget for professional development, conferences, and training.
• A supportive and innovative work environment focused on continuous learning and growth.