Lead Backend Engineer

About the role

We are an early‑stage AI startup building agentic systems that automate complex operational workflows for a traditional industry undergoing digital transformation. As Lead Backend Engineer you will own the design and delivery of the platform’s backend, ensuring it can scale as we add customers and new AI capabilities.

Key responsibilities

• Architect and develop scalable backend services using Node.js and TypeScript.
• Design and implement APIs, micro‑services and event‑driven components.
• Build and maintain data pipelines and integrations with PostgreSQL and external systems.
• Collaborate with AI, product and data teams to translate requirements into reliable production code.
• Mentor junior engineers and define engineering standards and best practices.
• Contribute to long‑term technical strategy and system design.

Required profile

• Proven software engineering experience with strong Node.js and TypeScript expertise.
• Demonstrated ability to build scalable backend systems and APIs.
• Solid understanding of system design, architecture and event‑driven patterns.
• Experience in a startup or scale‑up environment.
• Degree in a STEM discipline (preferred).

Required skills

• Node.js
• TypeScript
• PostgreSQL
• API design
• Micro‑services
• Event‑driven architecture

What we offer

• Competitive salary up to £120,000 per year.
• Equity participation with significant upside.
• High ownership and impact in a fast‑moving startup.
• Direct collaboration with founders and senior leadership.
• Opportunity to shape engineering culture and tooling from the ground up.