At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop secure, scalable software for an innovative AI-powered learning platform.
- Company: Join Ignite Hubs, an award-winning charity inspiring the next generation in STEM and creative fields.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, impactful work, and the chance to shape future careers for young people.
- Other info: Collaborative environment focused on social impact and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by helping underrepresented youth access technology and career opportunities.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in software engineering with strong skills in React, TypeScript, and secure web applications.
Contract Pay: Please provide either a fixed-price proposal against the Statements of Work or your day rate, including any charity discount.
About Ignite Hubs
Ignite Hubs is an award-winning education charity inspiring the next generation of STEM trailblazers, creative thinkers and digital innovators. We work particularly with girls and young people from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds, helping to widen access to technology, STEM and creative careers.
Since launching in 2019, we have supported more than 2,000 children and young people and currently deliver learning to over 200 students each week through our online and in-person programmes.
We are now entering an exciting phase of digital transformation, developing the ‘Ignite Learning & Careers Hub’, our innovative, AI-powered platform that helps children and young people discover careers, develop future‑ready skills, and access personalised learning opportunities.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Senior Backend Developer to help deliver the next phase of the Ignite Learning & Careers Hub.
Working alongside our founder and Product Development team, you will deliver two key Statements of Work that form the platform's secure technical foundation. The two Statements of Work cover:
Statement of Work 1 - Secure Accounts & Safe Registration
- Family‑linked parent and learner accounts
- Secure registration and consent management
- Role‑based access control
- Row Level Security (RLS)
Statement of Work 2 - Learning Platform Integration
- Single Sign‑On (SSO) between the Careers Platform and Moodle
- Automatic learner account provisioning
- Secure API integrations
- Learner course progress and dashboard integration
- A seamless experience across both platforms
Detailed Product Requirements Documents (PRDs) and Statements of Work (SOWs) have already been prepared. Your role will be to deliver high‑quality software against clearly defined acceptance criteria.
This opportunity is ideal for an experienced engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges while building technology that creates genuine social impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop secure, scalable and maintainable software using React, TypeScript and Supabase.
- Build front‑end and back‑end functionality for the Learning & Careers Platform.
- Collaborate with the Product Owner, Technical Lead and Product Designer throughout delivery.
- Participate in code reviews and contribute to engineering best practices.
- Produce technical documentation and handover notes.
- Demonstrate completed work against agreed acceptance criteria.
- Help identify and resolve technical challenges throughout the delivery process.
React, TypeScript, Supabase, PostgreSQL, REST APIs, OAuth 2 / OpenID Connect, Moodle, GitHub and Azure
What We're Looking For
- 5+ years' commercial experience as a Full‑Stack Software Engineer.
- Strong experience with React and TypeScript.
- Experience building secure production web applications.
- Experience implementing authentication and authorisation.
- Experience with PostgreSQL or other relational databases.
- Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to work independently.
- Experience with Supabase.
- Experience implementing Row Level Security (RLS).
- Experience with OAuth 2 or OpenID Connect.
- Experience integrating third‑party systems and APIs.
- Experience with Moodle or Learning Management Systems.
- Experience developing applications managing personal or sensitive data.
- Experience with Azure.
- Understanding of UK GDPR and secure software development.
Why Join Ignite Hubs
This is an opportunity to help build a platform that has the potential to transform how children and young people discover careers, develop skills and access future opportunities.
Your work will directly contribute to widening opportunities for children and young people, particularly girls and those from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds, helping them develop the skills, confidence and connections they need to pursue fulfilling careers in technology, STEM and the creative industries.
Senior Backend Developer employer: Ignite Hubs
Ignite Hubs is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and inclusivity in the tech space. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we offer opportunities for professional development while fostering a collaborative and supportive remote work culture. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people through our AI-powered learning platform.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Backend Developer
✨Make Your Portfolio Shine
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Backend Developer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your GitHub Projects:When applying for a freelance software engineering gig at Ignite Hubs, make sure to include your GitHub link in your application. Highlighting your code repositories, contributions to Open Source, and any personal projects can really set you apart and give us insight into your skills and coding style.
Tailor Your CV with Relevant Skills:In software development, the specifics matter! Make sure your CV lists the programming languages and technologies you excel at. Focus on the ones that align with the projects Ignite Hubs is working on. Listing your tech stack clearly will help us understand how you fit into our team.
Include a Portfolio of Your Work:A solid portfolio is a must when applying for freelance roles. Include links to any apps, websites, or software you've developed. Highlight any projects that reflect a strong user experience, efficiency, or innovative solutions—this is your chance to shine and show us what you can bring to the table!
Mention Your Availability and Rates:Since this is a freelance role, we want to know when you’re available and what your rates are like! Be upfront about your typical work hours and project timelines. This transparency will help us see if we can sync up for future projects at Ignite Hubs.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ignite Hubs
✨Showcase Your Code Wizardry
Since you're going for a freelance role in software engineering, have a solid portfolio ready to flaunt your best work. Include projects that highlight your coding skills, frameworks you excel in, and any problem-solving feats you've pulled off. This is your chance to shine, so choose pieces that reflect your unique style and expertise!
✨Prepare for Technical Challenges
Freelance gigs often involve tech assessments or coding challenges, so be ready to tackle some hands-on problems. Brush up on common algorithms, data structures, and any languages/frameworks relevant to the role at Ignite Hubs. Being comfortable with platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode can give you an edge and showcase your skills under pressure!
✨Be Clear About Your Rates and Flexibility
As a freelancer, be prepared to discuss your rates upfront. It's crucial to communicate your pricing structure clearly and whether you're open to negotiation. Do your homework on industry standards to ensure you pitch a fair and competitive rate that reflects your skills and experience!
✨Understand Their Tech Stack
Before the interview, get familiar with the tools and technologies used at Ignite Hubs. Whether it's a particular framework or a specific coding methodology, being knowledgeable about their tech stack not only shows your interest but also helps you present how you could fit seamlessly into their existing projects. Demonstrating you’ve done your homework can set you apart from other candidates!
