Backend Engineer

We are looking for a talented Backend Engineer to build and maintain scalable backend systems using Python and FastAPI, with NoSQL databases (Amazon DocumentDB preferred). This role requires strong backend fundamentals, experience building high-performance APIs, and familiarity with distributed systems and microservice-based architectures. You will work closely with product and frontend teams to deliver reliable and performant backend services. Additionally, experience leveraging Language Models to improve development productivity and a design-aware approach to software development are valued.

Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and maintain RESTful APIs using Python and FastAPI with a focus on performance, scalability, and maintainability
• Build backend services using Amazon DocumentDB (NoSQL) as a primary datastore, including schema design and query optimisation.
• Collaborate with frontend engineers to integrate user-facing elements with backend logic.
• Optimise API performance to ensure speed, scalability, and reliability.
• Implement security, authentication, and authorisation mechanisms following best practices.
• Contribute to backend services running in a microservices and distributed system environment.
• Work with product and engineering teams to translate requirements into technical implementations.
• Troubleshoot, debug, and resolve backend issues in development and production.
• Follow industry best practices for API development, testing, and code quality.
• Participate in code reviews and contribute to maintaining high code quality standards.

Requirements:

• 2-5 years of experience as a Backend Engineer or in a similar role.
• Strong proficiency in Python, with hands-on experience using FastAPI.
• Experience designing and implementing RESTful APIs.
• Solid understanding of NoSQL databases, with Amazon DocumentDB experience preferred.
• Working knowledge of relational database concepts and design principles.
• Understanding of query optimisation, indexing, and performance tuning.
• Strong understanding of API design patterns including versioning, rate limiting, and throttling.
• Hands-on experience with caching strategies and implementation
• Familiarity with authentication and authorisation concepts with multiple identity providers (Azure AD, Okta, etc).
• Experience following software development best practices, including Version control (Git), Code reviews, and testing.
• Familiarity with testing frameworks such as PyTest or equivalent.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Experience using Language Models (e. g., GPT-based tools) to improve development productivity.

Nice to Have:

• Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
• Knowledge of containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Understanding of microservices architecture.
• Experience working on high-scale, production-grade systems.
• Understanding of multi-tenant application architecture is a plus.
• Familiarity with WebSocket implementations for real-time features.
• Familiarity with monitoring and observability tools such as Prometheus, Grafana, or similar.
• Experience with SOC2 compliance requirements and security best practices.
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices.
• Contributions to open-source projects or a strong GitHub profile.