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- Tasks: Lead backend development using Python, manage cloud infrastructure, and design scalable systems.
- Company: Join an exciting early AI startup focused on personalised learning experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model and competitive salary package with growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of AI in education while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Extensive backend development experience, proficiency in Python, and familiarity with cloud platforms required.
- Other info: Ideal for proactive individuals ready to tackle complex challenges in a fast-paced environment.
The predicted salary is between 56000 - 84000 £ per year.
FryerMiles are delighted to be working exclusively with an early AI startup in their quest to recruit a Senior Backend Engineer (Python), to assist in a long-term, well-backed scale-up. Our client is seeking an experienced Backend Engineer, a sound professional and subject matter expert who has been involved in scale-ups previously. This is not a role for someone looking for a short-term stint; we are seeking a Backend Engineer who is in this for the long run, to be fully involved in the company's plans and grow with them.
As the Senior Backend Engineer, you will lead the backend development using Python (FastAPI) and manage cloud infrastructure. You will work closely with the CTO and Frontend Lead to design scalable, high-performance systems that power personalised AI-driven learning experiences. This role is ideal for someone with deep expertise in building and operating production-grade systems, who is ready to take full ownership of backend architecture.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead the design, development, and optimisation of the Python FastAPI backend.
- Architect and maintain scalable APIs, database models, and AI-driven integrations.
- Oversee cloud infrastructure (Azure) to ensure reliability and performance.
- Collaborate with leadership on enhancing AI capabilities (including LLMOps) in the backend.
- Implement best practices in code quality, testing, and documentation.
- Mentor and support other engineers, fostering a strong engineering culture.
- Backend Development Expertise: Extensive experience developing, deploying, and managing large-scale backend services. Proficiency in Python (FastAPI).
- Cloud Infrastructure & Scalability: Hands-on experience with cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, or GCP) for deployment and scaling.
- Software Architecture & Performance Optimisation: Strong knowledge of database design (SQL), caching strategies, and asynchronous processing. Experience making architectural decisions for scalable, high-performance systems.
- Proactive & Independent Approach: Ability to take ownership of backend development and drive projects autonomously. Comfortable in a fast-paced startup environment, solving complex technical challenges.
- DevOps & CI/CD: Familiarity with pipelines, monitoring tools (OpenTelemetry, Azure Monitor, Prometheus).
- Security & Compliance: Understanding of best practices around data privacy and application security.
- AI & Machine Learning: Exposure to AI/ML workflows, particularly in LLMOps.
- Startup Experience: Prior experience in a high-growth startup environment.
Senior Backend Engineer (Python) employer: ZipRecruiter
Contact Detail:
ZipRecruiter Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Backend Engineer (Python)
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to showcase your experience with Python and FastAPI in your conversations. Highlight specific projects where you've led backend development, as this will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the company's AI-driven learning experiences. Understanding their product will allow you to discuss how your skills can directly contribute to enhancing their backend architecture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with cloud infrastructure, particularly Azure. Be ready to share examples of how you've ensured reliability and performance in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Emphasise your ability to mentor and support other engineers. The company values a strong engineering culture, so demonstrating your leadership skills and collaborative spirit will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Backend Engineer (Python)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Python, FastAPI, and cloud infrastructure. Emphasise any previous roles in scale-ups and your contributions to backend development.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific projects where you've led backend development or optimised systems, showcasing your expertise and alignment with their needs.
Showcase Relevant Projects: If you have a portfolio or GitHub repository, include links to relevant projects that demonstrate your skills in backend development, particularly with Python and cloud services. This can set you apart from other candidates.
Highlight Soft Skills: Since the role involves mentoring and collaboration, be sure to mention your ability to work independently and your experience in fostering a strong engineering culture. This will show that you're not just technically proficient but also a great team player.
How to prepare for a job interview at ZipRecruiter
✨Showcase Your Backend Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in backend development, particularly with Python and FastAPI. Highlight specific projects where you designed scalable systems and how you overcame challenges during the development process.
✨Demonstrate Cloud Knowledge
Since the role involves managing cloud infrastructure, brush up on your knowledge of Azure or other cloud platforms. Be ready to explain how you've used these technologies to enhance performance and reliability in past projects.
✨Discuss Architectural Decisions
Expect questions about your approach to software architecture. Prepare examples of architectural decisions you've made that improved system scalability and performance, and be ready to discuss the reasoning behind those choices.
✨Emphasise Mentorship and Team Collaboration
This role requires mentoring other engineers, so be sure to share your experiences in fostering a collaborative engineering culture. Talk about how you've supported team members and contributed to their growth in previous roles.
