Senior Backend Engineer (Node.js / TypeScript / MongoDB / AWS) | Remote | 6 month Contract to go Perm Western Cape

BRIEF DESCRIPTION:-

The Senior Backend Engineer role involves leading and executing customer-facing software projects from start to finish, including technical specifications, development, testing, deployment, and documentation. The candidate must have extensive experience in backend development using Node.js, TypeScript, MongoDB, and AWS, and should be able to manage project timelines and client interactions independently.

Job Title: Lead Backend Developer (Node.js / TypeScript / MongoDB / AWS) | Remote | 6-Month Contract, Potential for Permanent Role Company: Datafin Recruitment

**ENVIRONMENT:**

Our client is searching for a seasoned Lead Backend Software Engineer to independently oversee and execute customer-facing software initiatives from inception through to completion, including documentation and final handover. This role is ideal for a proactive professional capable of owning project results, making informed technical choices, and sustaining project momentum with minimal oversight.

Based remotely in South Africa, the chosen candidate will collaborate with US clients, working within hours that align with New York time. This position requires translating business needs into precise technical specifications, managing full project lifecycles, and creating sturdy backend solutions within tight deadlines.

**DUTIES:**

• Oversee customer projects comprehensively, from discovery and planning to estimation, specification, development, testing, deployment, documentation, and handover. - Independently manage workload, priorities, risks, dependencies, and delivery commitments with minimal supervision. - Directly interact with clients and stakeholders to gather business requirements, resolve ambiguities, provide progress updates, and manage expectations professionally. - Convert customer needs into clear, actionable technical specifications, acceptance criteria, and implementation plans. - Architect, build, and sustain secure, scalable, and reliable backend services, integrations, APIs, and data-processing workflows. - Coordinate project activities to ensure timelines and milestones are met within strict deadlines. - Generate precise, current technical documentation, encompassing solution designs, specifications, implementation notes, operational guidance, and customer handover materials. - Test, deploy, and validate solutions, owning production outcomes, and swiftly addressing any issues. - Utilize AI tools like Claude effectively to identify practical opportunities for AI integration into engineering, documentation, and delivery workflows while maintaining quality, security, and appropriate human oversight. - Enhance engineering processes, development standards, and delivery practices, and share insights with the broader team.

**MAIN TECHNOLOGY STACK:**

• JavaScript / TypeScript - Node.js - Docker - MongoDB - AWS

**REQUIREMENTS:**

• A bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is preferred. - Solid understanding of software engineering principles, algorithms, testing, security, and maintainable system design. - At least four years of professional experience with JavaScript/TypeScript and Node.js. - Extensive senior-level software engineering experience, particularly in backend development. - Demonstrated experience in constructing complex backend services, APIs, integrations, and data-processing solutions. - Strong client-facing skills, including conducting discovery sessions, discussing technical options, and communicating project progress and risks. - Practical experience with AI tools, with a clear understanding of responsible and effective AI integration into workflows. - Ability and willingness to consistently work during New York business hours while located in South Africa.