At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and maintain scalable backend services using Python and AWS.
- Company: Join an innovative AI start-up transforming education.
- Benefits: Flexible salary, remote work, and a chance to shape the future.
- Why this job: Be part of a team redefining learning with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in backend development with Python and AWS expertise.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for mentorship and growth.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Work Location: UK (Remote) - You must be UK based with a full right to work
Type: 6 to 12 months contract (with potential of converting to permanent)
Reports to: CTO
Experience Level: Senior / 5–10 years
Salary: £75,000 to £80,000 (Flexible - Depending on experience)
About Our Client
Key requirements: Python, Fast APIs, AWS (Lambda), AI code generation tools: Cursor, Copilot or similar. Also experience working with AI/ML, and curiosity about AI is essential for this role. Our client is an early stage AI start-up in the education sector. They’re on a mission to redefine how students learn through intelligent tutoring and empower teachers with data-driven insights into learning progress using ML, GenAI, and modern data systems. Their cross-functional team of engineers and product leaders is building a platform that powers both mobile and web apps for users. They’re now on the lookout for a hands-on Senior Backend Engineer who can take ownership of backend architecture, scale system performance, and mature their DevOps and CI/CD practices.
What You’ll Do:
- Design, build, and maintain scalable backend services and RESTful APIs using Python (FastAPI /Django/Flask) (Essential)
- Architect and optimise AWS infrastructure (Lambda, ECS, EC2, RDS, S3, CloudFront, etc.) for reliability and cost efficiency
- Build and manage PostgreSQL databases hosted on Amazon RDS, including schema design, query optimisation, and backups
- Collaborate with frontend engineers (React/React Native/Swift) to integrate APIs with web and mobile apps
- Lead DevOps automation - CI/CD (GitHub Actions), infrastructure as code (Terraform/CDK), observability (CloudWatch, Grafana)
- Work closely with AI engineers to integrate and deploy machine learning pipelines into production systems
- Implement security, monitoring, and data governance best practices
- Mentor team members, set coding standards, and contribute to architectural decisions with the CTO
What You’ll Bring:
- 5+ years of experience in backend development (Python, Node.js, or Go)
- Strong expertise in AWS (Lambda, ECS, EC2, RDS, S3) - highly desirable, and DevOps pipelines (advantage but not essential)
- Exposure to integrating AI/ML services or APIs into production systems
- Experience working with AI code generation tools such as Cursor, Copilot, or a similar tool. This is essential, as the team works with these tools for speed and efficiency.
- Deep understanding of PostgreSQL (schema design, optimisation, migrations) and RDS management
- Proven experience building RESTful APIs for high-performance web and mobile applications
- Familiarity with Swift or React Native API integration workflows
- Experience with containerisation (Docker, ECS/EKS/Kubernetes)
- A passion for start-up environments — ownership, speed, and hands-on problem solving
Why Join:
- Join an early-stage founding team shaping the platform and product direction from the ground up
- Work with cutting-edge AWS and AI technologies in a fast-paced, high-autonomy culture
- Collaborate closely with experienced product and AI leaders
Back End Developer employer: MI Select
Contact Detail:
MI Select Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Back End Developer
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with folks in the industry! Attend meetups, webinars, or even just grab a coffee with someone who’s already in the game. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Don’t just tell them what you can do; show them! Create a portfolio or GitHub repository showcasing your projects, especially those using Python, AWS, or AI tools. This gives potential employers a taste of your work and sets you apart from the crowd.
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on common backend development questions and be ready to discuss your experience with AWS and AI/ML. Practice coding challenges and think about how you can demonstrate your problem-solving skills during the interview.
✨Apply Through Us!
We’ve got your back! Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that dream job. We’re all about connecting talented individuals like you with amazing opportunities in the tech world.
We think you need these skills to ace Back End Developer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Python, AWS, and AI/ML. We want to see how your skills match up with what we're looking for, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you're excited about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our mission in the education sector. Keep it engaging and personal.
Showcase Your Projects: If you've worked on any cool backend projects or have experience with AI code generation tools like Cursor or Copilot, make sure to mention them. We love seeing real examples of your work and how you tackle challenges.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at MI Select
✨Know Your Tech Stack Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in Python, FastAPI, and AWS services like Lambda and RDS. Brush up on your experience with AI code generation tools like Cursor or Copilot, as these will be crucial in the role. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used these technologies.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to share examples of how you've tackled complex backend challenges in previous roles. Think about times when you optimised system performance or improved DevOps practices. This will demonstrate your hands-on approach and ability to take ownership of projects.
✨Understand the Company’s Mission
Research the start-up's mission to redefine learning through AI. Be prepared to discuss how your skills can contribute to their goals. Showing genuine interest in their vision will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Questions
Since you'll be working closely with frontend engineers and AI teams, think about how you’ve collaborated in the past. Prepare to discuss your experience integrating APIs and mentoring team members, as this will highlight your teamwork and leadership abilities.