Lead Backend Developer (Python/Django)

About the Role

Our client, a thriving fintech startup based in the vibrant city of Cape Town , is seeking a talented and experienced Lead Backend Developer to spearhead their backend development efforts. This is a permanent, full-time role with a hybrid work model, allowing for a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility. You will be responsible for designing, developing, and deploying robust, scalable, and secure backend systems that power our client's innovative financial products. As the Lead, you will mentor a team of talented developers, drive technical decisions, and ensure the highest standards of code quality and system performance. This role offers an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on a rapidly evolving platform in a fast-paced industry. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership qualities, a deep understanding of Python and Django, and a passion for building high-performance applications. You will work closely with product managers, frontend engineers, and other stakeholders to deliver exceptional user experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and maintenance of backend services using Python and Django .
• Architect and implement scalable, secure, and efficient APIs.
• Mentor and guide a team of backend developers, fostering a collaborative and productive environment.
• Conduct code reviews, ensuring adherence to coding standards and best practices.
• Collaborate with frontend developers to integrate user-facing elements with server-side logic.
• Optimize application performance and database queries.
• Troubleshoot and debug complex issues in production and development environments.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and technology selection.
• Ensure the security and integrity of data handled by the application.
• Stay updated with the latest trends in backend development and fintech.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in backend development with a strong focus on Python and the Django framework.
• Proven experience leading a development team or acting as a technical lead.
• Solid understanding of relational databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MySQL) and ORMs.
• Experience designing and consuming RESTful APIs.
• Familiarity with microservices architecture and message queues (e.g., RabbitMQ, Kafka).
• Knowledge of frontend technologies (e.g., JavaScript, React) is a plus.
• Experience with cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) and Docker is preferred.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills.
• Strong communication and leadership abilities.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for stock options.
• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage.
• Generous leave policy.
• Professional development budget for training and conferences.
• Modern office space in a convenient Cape Town location.
• Regular team social events.
• Opportunity to work with a passionate and innovative team.
• Contribute to a product with significant market impact.