Specialist Software Engineer - Backend, AI & Data Innovation Lab

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking a Specialist Backend Software Engineer to join the Labs software engineering practice. This role is integral to developing top-tier talent, setting engineering best practices, and evangelizing full-stack development capabilities across the organization. The Specialist Backend Software Engineer will play a key role in turning AI concepts into products, working closely with product managers and AI and software engineers and architects. This is a hands-on, cross-functional role that blends modern software development with AI integration in a rapid innovation and prototyping operating model.

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and maintain microservices using Python to ensure the software is modular, scalable, and maintainable.
• Create and manage RESTful APIs to facilitate seamless communication between different software components and external systems.
• Apply and advocate for best practices in software development, including code reviews, unit testing, continuous integration, and continuous deployment.
• Implement and manage deployments using Docker to ensure consistent and efficient application delivery across different environments.
• Design, implement, and maintain database schemas, ensuring efficient data storage, retrieval, and manipulation.
• Work closely with product managers, designers, and other engineers to deliver high-quality software solutions that meet business requirements.
• Identify and resolve software issues and bugs promptly to ensure smooth operation and minimal downtime.

• Stay updated on new technologies, industry trends, and best practices in software development, especially in areas like UI and AI, and be open to learning relevant skills.

• Promotes code quality through reviews, static analysis tools, and adherence to team standards and best practices.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior engineers, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented team environment.

Functional Skills:

• Extensive hands-on experience with Python, with the ability to design and implement complex backend systems, integrate with data sources, and follow modern development practices.
• Deep understanding of software engineering best practices and overall software product development lifecycle, including version control, CI/CD, TDD, and agile methodologies.
• Strong grasp of OOP, design patterns, and clean code principles with a focus on maintainability and testability.
• Proficiency with Python-based backend frameworks, preferably FastAPI or Flask.
• Experience with databases (Postgres/DynamoDB)
• Experience managing and deploying infrastructure in at least one cloud provider such as AWS (preferred), Azure, or Google Cloud.
• Experience with microservices architecture and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).

Good-to-Have Skills:

• Familiarity with JavaScript and modern web technologies, including React, Angular, and Node.js
• Familiarity with enterprise software systems in life sciences or healthcare domains.
• Familiarity with big data platforms and experience in data pipeline development (Databricks, Spark).
• Knowledge of data security, privacy regulations, and scalable software solutions.

Soft Skills:

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to foster a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• High degree of initiative and self-motivation.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Computer Science, AI, Software Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in backend development in software engineering, with a strong focus on software development using Python.