Durban: Senior Software Engineer posted by DataFin Recruitment

ENVIRONMENT:

Our client is a rapidly expanding technology company specialising in connected systems and data-driven platforms that support asset visibility and operational security. Their solutions include real-time monitoring tools and companion mobile applications used to support critical operations in both local and international markets. The business is currently developing advanced smart platforms, including a centralised asset management portal, built on modern technology stacks with growing use of intelligent automation. The working environment is collaborative and fast-paced, with a strong emphasis on reliability, scalability, and building systems that support always-on, business-critical operations.

Role Overview
The Software & Applications Team Lead is a hands-on technical leadership role requiring daily coding, mentoring, and end-to-end ownership of major projects. The position involves guiding a small development team while actively contributing to strategic software initiatives, including the integration of AI-powered features. This is not a pure management role; approximately 5070% of time will be dedicated to hands-on development, with the remainder focused on leadership, strategy, and delivery.

DUTIES:

• Provide technical guidance and day-to-day leadership to a team of Flutter developers and contract web developers, including conducting code reviews, pair programming, and skill-building sessions.
• Collaborate closely with the Support Manager to resolve technical issues swiftly and maintain system reliability.
• Own the delivery and ongoing maintenance of key projects, including:
  • A new SIM asset management portal built with NestJS and React.
  • Existing PHP web assets.
  • Python 3 backend services and MariaDB databases.
  • Core mobile applications built with Flutter.
• Architect, maintain, and scale Python 3 services; optimize MariaDB performance and manage Linux servers (Ubuntu/OpenSUSE).
• Configure and manage Nginx routing, basic TCP/IP networking, and related infrastructure such as FortiGate.
• Explore and implement AI-powered enhancements, such as predictive analytics and anomaly detection within telemetry data.
• Partner with the R&D Manager to ensure seamless integration between software and hardware telemetry systems.
• Manage software lifecycles, coordinate with external vendors, and ensure high-quality, timely project delivery.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelors degree in computer science or equivalent, supported by a strong portfolio of shipped applications and projects.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant software development experience.
• Proven expertise in Flutter/Dart for mobile applications and Python 3 for backend services.
• Solid experience with MySQL/MariaDB database design, optimization, and management.
• Hands-on experience with modern web stacks, particularly NestJS and React.
• Proficiency working in Linux environments and with complex Git workflows (GitLab/GitHub).
• Demonstrated success in leading small-to-medium development teams or projects through full lifecycles.
• Strong understanding of TCP/IP networking fundamentals.
• A track record of completed impactful projectsexamples must be provided in the application.

ATTRIBUTES:

• High-energy, proactive, and innovative mindset with a passion for exploring AI/ML applications in IoT and telemetry.
• Thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and excels at mentoring and developing team members.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to master new tools and technologies on the job, such as FortiGate and advanced Nginx tuning.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to align technical work with broader business and hardware objectives.
• Demonstrates ownership, accountability, and a commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable software.