Backend Engineer - Johannesburg (In office)

OfferZen is seeking a skilled Backend Engineer to join their team in Johannesburg. This role is based in-office, offering a collaborative environment for developing and maintaining robust software applications. If you possess a strong foundation in backend development and are eager to contribute to innovative technology solutions, this opportunity might be the perfect fit for you.

About the role

As a Backend Engineer, you will be instrumental in the entire software development lifecycle. This involves the meticulous design, construction, and ongoing upkeep of software applications and systems. The core of your work will revolve around ensuring that these applications not only function flawlessly but also effectively cater to the needs of end-users and various stakeholders within the organisation. You will be part of a dynamic team where your contributions directly impact the quality and performance of the software being developed. This position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to delivering high-quality, maintainable code.

Your responsibilities will encompass a range of critical tasks, all geared towards building and refining software solutions:

• **Develop and maintain software applications:** This is the primary focus, requiring you to write efficient, scalable, and secure code for backend systems.
• **Collaborate with cross-functional teams:** You will work closely with other engineers, designers, and product managers to understand requirements and translate them into technical specifications. This collaborative spirit is essential for defining and designing new features that align with business objectives.
• **Participate in code reviews:** Upholding high standards of code quality is paramount. You will engage in thorough code reviews, providing constructive feedback and ensuring adherence to best coding practices.
• **Troubleshoot and debug applications:** Identifying and resolving issues within existing applications is a key aspect of the role, demanding analytical skills and a systematic approach to debugging.
• **Document development processes:** Clear and comprehensive documentation is vital for knowledge sharing and future development. You will be responsible for documenting development processes and preparing technical documentation that serves as a reference for the team.

What they're looking for

To excel in this Backend Engineer position, candidates should demonstrate a solid technical background and a collaborative mindset. The ideal candidate will possess:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a closely related field.
• Proven proficiency in at least one or more of the following programming languages: Java, Python, or JavaScript.
• Experience with modern web development frameworks that are typically used for building backend services.
• A good understanding of database management systems and experience working with them.
• The ability to work effectively both independently, taking ownership of tasks, and collaboratively within a team environment.

This role is suitable for someone passionate about backend development, eager to learn and adapt to new technologies, and committed to contributing to a forward-thinking organisation.

In South Africa, backend engineering roles are in high demand across various sectors, including fintech, e-commerce, and established enterprises. Salaries for experienced backend engineers can range significantly, often from R40,000 to R70,000+ per month, depending on the specific company, the complexity of the role, and the candidate's level of expertise. Career progression typically involves moving into senior engineering positions, technical leadership roles, or specialising in areas like cloud architecture or DevOps.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field
• Proficiency in Java, Python, or JavaScript
• Experience with web development frameworks
• Familiarity with database management systems
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively