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.