Remote Lead Backend Engineer (Node.js/Express)

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge fintech startup, is looking for an experienced Lead Backend Engineer specializing in Node.js and Express.js to join their fully remote team. You will be instrumental in designing, developing, and scaling the core backend services that power their innovative financial platform. This role demands strong technical leadership, architectural vision, and a passion for building high-quality, robust applications. As a lead, you will mentor junior engineers, drive technical excellence, and contribute significantly to the product roadmap. Embrace the freedom of remote work while shaping the future of financial technology from anywhere in South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of scalable, high-performance backend services using Node.js and Express.js.
• Architect robust APIs and microservices, ensuring security, reliability, and maintainability.
• Manage and optimize database solutions (e.g., PostgreSQL, MongoDB) for performance and scalability.
• Drive best practices in code quality, testing, and deployment strategies.
• Mentor and guide a team of backend engineers, fostering technical growth and collaboration.
• Collaborate closely with product managers, frontend engineers, and other stakeholders to deliver innovative features.
• Implement and maintain CI/CD pipelines for efficient software delivery.
• Conduct code reviews and provide constructive feedback to ensure high code standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues in production environments.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and long-term technical strategy.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 7+ years of professional experience in backend development, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior capacity.
• Extensive experience with Node.js and frameworks like Express.js.
• Proven experience in designing and building RESTful APIs and microservices.
• Strong knowledge of database systems (SQL and NoSQL) and data modeling.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes) is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with message queuing systems (e.g., Kafka, RabbitMQ) is a plus.
• Excellent understanding of software architecture patterns and best practices.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, remote team environment.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, retirement fund contribution, and generous opportunities for professional development and training. Work on exciting, impactful projects with a talented, globally distributed team. Enjoy the flexibility and autonomy of remote work while contributing to a leading fintech innovator.