Senior Backend Software Engineer

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Pietermaritzburg is seeking a Senior Backend Software Engineer to design, develop, and deploy scalable backend services powering our client's flagship products. The role blends on-site collaboration with remote flexibility in a hybrid setup.

You will work with modern languages (Python/Java/Go/Node.js), manage relational and NoSQL databases, design RESTful APIs, and contribute to CI/CD pipelines while mentoring junior engineers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of professional backend experience.
• Proficiency in at least one modern backend language (Python, Java, Go, Node.js).
• Experience with relational and NoSQL databases (PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB).
• RESTful API design and cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP).
• Familiarity with Docker and Kubernetes.
• Knowledge of Agile/Scrum methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain high-performance, scalable backend services and APIs.
• Collaborate with frontend, product, and QA teams to implement features.
• Write clean, well-documented code following best practices.
• Optimize performance, identify bottlenecks, implement caching.
• Manage database schemas and queries, ensure data integrity.
• Implement and maintain CI/CD pipelines for automated testing and deployment.
• Participate in code reviews and provide feedback.
• Troubleshoot production issues and mentor juniors.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and tech evaluations.

Skills

Backend development

API design

Problem solving

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering or related field

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

AWS

Azure

GCP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative technology firm, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Backend Software Engineer to join their growing team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate developer to contribute to cutting-edge projects, working with a robust technology stack. The ideal candidate will be a proactive problem-solver with a deep understanding of backend systems, database management, and API development. You will play a crucial role in designing, developing, and deploying scalable and reliable backend services that power our client's flagship products. This role offers a unique blend of on-site collaboration and remote flexibility, fostering a productive and engaging work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain high-performance, scalable, and secure backend services and APIs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including frontend developers, product managers, and QA engineers, to define and implement new features.
• Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code following best practices and coding standards.
• Optimize application performance, identify and resolve bottlenecks, and implement caching strategies.
• Develop and manage database schemas, optimize queries, and ensure data integrity.
• Implement and maintain CI/CD pipelines for automated testing and deployment.
• Participate in code reviews, providing constructive feedback to peers.
• Troubleshoot and debug complex issues in production and development environments.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and technology evaluations.
• Mentor junior engineers and share knowledge within the team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Proven experience as a Backend Software Engineer, with at least 5 years of professional experience.
• Strong proficiency in at least one modern backend programming language (e.g., Python, Java, Go, Node.js).
• Extensive experience with relational and NoSQL databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB).
• Solid understanding of RESTful API design principles and best practices.
• Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.
• Familiarity with containerization technologies like Docker and Kubernetes.
• Knowledge of software development methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Experience with CI/CD tools and practices.
• Knowledge of microservices architecture is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary package.
• Hybrid work model offering a balance between office and remote work.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off and public holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Access to modern technology and tools.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Potential for career advancement within the company.
• Regular team-building activities and social events.