Midrand: Backend Software Engineer

We are seeking a Backend Software Engineer to design, build, and maintain scalable backend systems and APIs that support multiple internal and customer-facing platforms. This role focuses on backend architecture, system integration, and API-driven platforms. The successful candidate will work closely with frontend developers to define clean, well-structured API contracts and data models that enable effective user-facing experiences. The systems under development are integration-heavy and must support secure, reliable interactions across OSS/BSS platforms. Strong emphasis is placed on backend design, service orchestration, and alignment with TM Forum Open APIs and, where applicable, MEF standards. Responsibilities: Design, develop, and maintain backend services and APIs using Python (Django, FastAPI, or similar frameworks) Build and maintain TMF-aligned REST APIs for service ordering, product catalogue, feasibility, provisioning, monitoring, and ticketing Integrate backend services with internal and external systems, including OSS/BSS platforms, ServiceNow, and third-party APIs Collaborate with frontend developers to define API contracts, data models, and response structures that support user-facing applications Implement authentication and authorization mechanisms such as OAuth2, SSO, and service-to-service authentication Design and maintain backend data models and persistence layers (PostgreSQL/MySQL) Implement robust error handling, logging, monitoring, and observability for backend services Write and maintain technical documentation for APIs, integrations, and backend workflows Perform ongoing maintenance, debugging, and performance optimization of backend systems Work closely with system architects, integration engineers, and business stakeholders to refine requirements and ensure alignment with enterprise standards Required skills/tools: 5 years of experience in backend software development, using Python (Django, FastAPI, Flask, or similar) Strong experience designing and implementing RESTful APIs Solid understanding of authentication and authorisation mechanisms (OAuth2, JWT, SSO) Experience working with relational databases such as PostgreSQL or MySQL Familiarity with API versioning, backward compatibility, and contract-driven development Experience with CI/CD pipelines and Git-based workflows (GitHub or GitLab) Experience building and operating production backend services Working knowledge of containerization (Docker) and cloud environments (AWS or GCP) Comfortable collaborating with frontend developers and contributing to shared design decisions Experience with TM Forum Open APIs (especially TMF622, TMF641, TMF645) Familiarity with MEF standards and APIs P rior experience in telecom, ISP, or OSS/BSS environments Exposure to service orchestration, provisioning, and service assurance systems Familiarity with ServiceNow, particularly CSM, SOM, or TSM modules Experience designing backend systems that support high-volume, integration-heavy workloads Qualifications: Degree/Diploma in Information Technology