SUMMARY:
Backend Engineer-12 Month Contract-Onsite
POSITION INFO:
Backend Engineer
Location
Johannesburg Metro, Johannesburg, Johannesburg-Onsite
Job Type
Contract – Full-Time
Primary Industry
Banking and Finance
Job Description
The Backend Engineer specialising in Java undertakes the design, development, and maintenance of server-side components and services that support the organisation’s financial applications. The role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver secure, scalable, and high-performance backend solutions that meet business requirements within the banking and finance sector. This position demands strong problem-solving abilities and adherence to industry best practises, ensuring the robustness and reliability of critical financial systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain backend services and APIs using Java, ensuring code quality, performance optimisation, and security compliance.
- Design scalable and resilient system architectures suited to high-volume transactional environments.
- Collaborate with product owners, frontend engineers, and quality assurance teams to deliver end-to-end solutions.
- Write unit, integration, and system tests to validate the functionality and reliability of backend components.
- Identify and resolve performance bottlenecks and production issues promptly.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including code reviews, knowledge sharing, and process enhancements.
- Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory and security standards applicable to the banking and finance industry.
- Maintain up-to-date technical documentation for developed systems and processes.
- Participate in Agile development ceremonies and adhere to project timelines and deliverables.
Required Qualifications
- Demonstrable proficiency in Java programming, including core libraries, frameworks, and best practises.
- Strong understanding of object-oriented design principles and design patterns.
- Experience with backend frameworks such as Spring or similar Java-based technologies.
- Familiarity with relational databases, SQL, and database design.
- Knowledge of RESTful API design and implementation.
- Understanding of software development lifecycle and version control systems.
- Ability to write clean, maintainable, and well-tested code.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or a related technical discipline.
Experience
- At least three years’ experience in backend development with a focus on Java technologies.
- Proven track record of working in financial services or banking environments is highly advantageous.
- Experience in developing secure and scalable applications in a production environment.
- Familiarity with Agile methodologies and practises.
Knowledge and Skills
- In-depth knowledge of Java Virtual Machine (JVM) performance tuning and memory management.
- Understanding of security principles and practises relevant to financial applications.
- Competence in using build tools such as Maven or Gradle.
- Experience with containerisation technologies (e.g., Docker) and cloud platforms is beneficial.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly.
- Capacity to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Advanced certification in Java programming or related technologies.
- Knowledge of microservices architecture and event-driven design.
- Experience working with message brokers or streaming platforms.
- Familiarity with continuous integration and continuous deployment pipelines.
Working Conditions
- The role is based in Johannesburg North and requires full-time availability during standard business hours.
- Work is primarily office-based with some flexibility for remote working subject to contract terms.
- The position operates within a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment typical of the banking and finance sector.
- Regular use of computer equipment and participation in virtual and in-person meetings.
- Occasional extended hours may be necessary to meet project deadlines or resolve critical issues.
