Technical Lead (PHP Node.JS) (On-site Somerset West)

Datafin; Somerset West; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established software company is seeking a Technical Lead in Somerset West, Western Cape. This role involves leading a development team, writing high-quality code, and overseeing system architecture. Candidates should have over 7 years in software development, including at least 2 years in a leadership role, with expertise in PHP and Node.js, as well as SaaS and microservices architecture. This position offers an exciting opportunity for hands-on leadership in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of software development experience, including 2 years in leadership.
• Proficiency in PHP and Node.js.
• Strong background in SaaS, microservices, and AWS.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of developers ensuring best practices.
• Write scalable and maintainable code when necessary.
• Define and oversee system architecture.

Skills

Leadership

PHP

Node.js

SaaS Architecture

Microservices

AWS Cloud

Database Design

API Development

DevOps

CI/CD Pipelines

Containerization

React

Vue.js

Angular

Job description

Technical Lead (PHP & Node.JS) (On-site Somerset West) IT - Manager – Somerset West, Western Cape, South Africa

ENVIRONMENT

A well‑established yet fast‑growing software company serving the South African property management market is looking for a hands‑on Technical Lead who excels in both coding and architecture while also inspiring and mentoring a team. In this pivotal role, you’ll guide the development team to deliver high‑quality code, build scalable and maintainable architecture, and continuously improve engineering processes. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment and is equally passionate about technology and team leadership. To succeed, you’ll need 7+ years of software development experience, including at least 2 years in a technical leadership role, with strong proficiency in PHP and Node.js, a solid background in SaaS and microservices architectures, and deep familiarity with the AWS cloud platform.

DUTIES

• Technical Leadership: Lead a team of developers, ensuring best practices in software development, architecture, and deployment, especially on back‑end of system
• Hands‑on Development: Write high‑quality, scalable, and maintainable code, when necessary, particularly for complex or high‑impact features.
• Architecture & Design: Define and oversee the system architecture, ensuring solutions are scalable, secure, and efficient.
• Mentorship & Team Development: Guide and mentor junior and mid‑level developers, fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
• Code Review & Quality Assurance: Conduct code reviews, enforce coding standards, and ensure software quality through testing strategies.
• Agile Development: Participate in agile processes, including sprint planning, stand‑ups, and retrospectives. Provide suggestions to improve processes.
• Collaboration: Work closely with product managers, product owners, scrum masters, UX designers, solution architects, and other stakeholders to translate business requirements into technical solutions.
• Tech Stack & Innovation: Stay up to date with new technologies, suggesting and implementing improvements where applicable.

REQUIREMENTS

• 7+ years of experience in software development, with at least 2 years in a technical leadership role.
• Proficiency in PHP, NodeJS.
• Strong experience with SaaS architectures, microservices, and the AWS cloud platform.
• Expertise in database design (SQL & NoSQL) and API development.
• Solid understanding of DevOps practices, CI/CD pipelines, and infrastructure as code.
• Experience leading code reviews, mentoring software developers, and setting and maintaining coding standards.
• Ability to balance technical leadership with hands‑on coding.
• Experience with containerisation e.g. Docker
• Knowledge of front‑end frameworks (React, Vue.js, or Angular).
• Prior experience in a SaaS environment.

ATTRIBUTES

• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Strong people management skills