Backend / Systems Engineer (FastAPI / Python)

Backend / Systems Engineer (FastAPI / Python) – Senior / Lead

Type: 12 Month Contract – (transfer to perm)

We’re hiring an experienced Backend / Systems Engineer to take ownership of the API architecture and core backend services for a high-profile digital transformation programme.

This is a critical role where you’ll design and build the backend systems that power executive dashboards, enterprise workflows, operational platforms, and AI-enabled services.

The Opportunity

As the lead backend engineer, you’ll architect the API layer that all frontends, integrations, and services depend on. Your first project will be delivering the FastAPI backend for an executive reporting portal, supporting:

• Budget and financial data
• KPI dashboards
• Approval workflows
• Action tracking
• Role-based access controls

Longer term, you’ll help shape the backend backbone for:

• Crisis management systems
• Operational dashboards
• AI agent service endpoints
• Enterprise systems integrations
• Communications and notification services

What You’ll Own:

• API architecture – endpoint design, request/response contracts, versioning, OpenAPI specs
• Authentication & Authorisation – Azure AD SSO, MFA, RBAC
• Workflow engines – approval flows, posture transitions, action tracking with immutable audit trails
• Session management – Redis-backed sessions, token refresh, expiry handling
• Integration patterns – enterprise systems and service orchestration
• Testing standards – unit, integration, and contract testing
• CI/CD pipelines – GitHub Actions, Azure App Service deployments

Key Skills & Experience:

• Strong expertise in FastAPI and Python 3.10+
• Proven experience designing scalable REST APIs in enterprise environments
• Deep knowledge of PostgreSQL, SQLAlchemy, and transaction management
• Experience with Azure AD / OAuth 2.0 / JWT / RBAC
• Strong hands-on experience with Redis for session handling and caching
• Experience with Docker, Azure App Service, and GitHub Actions
• Strong testing experience using pytest
• Experience designing state machines / multi-step workflows
• Excellent architectural thinking and stakeholder communication skills

Why Join?

• Own backend architecture for mission-critical systems
• Work on high-visibility products used by senior leadership and operational teams
• Shape long-term platform standards and engineering practices
• Join a modern, ambitious technology programme

Interested? Apply now or reach out to find out more.

Salt is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.