Lead Backend Developer

Job Title : Lead Backend Developer (Python, FastAPI & MongoDB)
Location : Bengaluru, India
Company Overview
Big AIR Lab operates at the edge of applied AI where foundational research meets real-world deployment. We craft intelligent systems that think in teams, adapt with context, and deliver actionable insight across domains.

Position Summary
We are looking for a Lead Backend Developer with 4+ years of professional experience in Python-based development, especially using FastAPI and MongoDB. The ideal candidate is skilled in building and maintaining scalable, high-performance back-end services and APIs, has strong understanding of modern database design (SQL & NoSQL), and has experience integrating backend services with cloud platforms.

Experience or interest in AI/ML projects is a strong plus, as our products often interface with LLMs and real-time AI pipelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain robust backend services using Python and FastAPI.
• Develop and maintain scalable RESTful APIs for internal tools and third-party integrations.
• Work with MongoDB, PostgreSQL, and Redis to manage structured and unstructured data efficiently.
• Collaborate with frontend, DevOps, and AI/ML teams to deliver secure and performant backend infrastructure.
• Implement best practices in code architecture, performance optimization, logging, and monitoring.
• Ensure APIs and systems are production-ready, fault-tolerant, and scalable.
• Handle API versioning, documentation (Swagger/OpenAPI), and error management.
• Optimize queries, indexes, and DB schema for high-performance data access.
• Maintain clean code with emphasis on object-oriented principles and modular design.
• Troubleshoot production issues and deliver timely fixes and improvements.

Qualifications

• Overall Experience : 4+ years in backend software development.
• Python : Strong proficiency with object-oriented programming.
• Frameworks : Hands-on experience with FastAPI (preferred), Django.
• MongoDB : Experience with schema design, aggregation pipelines, and indexing.
• Familiarity with SQL databases (PostgreSQL/MySQL).
• Experience with Redis and optionally Supabase.
• Proficient in building and documenting REST APIs.
• Strong understanding of HTTP, request lifecycles, and API security.
• Strong debugging and troubleshooting skills using logs and tools.
• Experience optimizing backend systems for latency, throughput, and reliability.
• Tools : Git, Docker, Linux commands for development environments.

Must-Have Skills

• Proficiency in Python and object-oriented programming
• Strong hands-on experience with FastAPI (or similar async frameworks)
• Knowledge of MongoDB for schema-less data storage and complex queries
• Experience building and managing REST APIs in production
• Comfortable working with Redis, PostgreSQL, or other data stores
• Experience with Dockerized environments and Git workflows
• Solid grasp of backend architecture, asynchronous programming, and performance tuning
• Ability to write clean, testable, and maintainable code

Good-to-Have Skills

• Experience with asynchronous programming using async/await
• Integration with third-party APIs (e.g., Firebase, GCP, Azure services)
• Basic understanding of WebSocket and real-time backend patterns
• Exposure to AI/ML pipelines, model APIs, or vector DBs (e.g., FAISS)
• Basic DevOps exposure: GitHub Actions, Docker Compose, Nginx
• Familiarity with JWT, OAuth2, and backend security practices
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and versioning
• Basic understanding of GraphQL or gRPC is a plus

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience delivering production-grade backend services
• Experience working in agile teams and using tools like Jira
• Familiarity with Agile/Scrum methodologies and sprint cycles
• Interest or experience in AI/ML-integrated systems is a plus

Perks & Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses
• Opportunity to work on AI-integrated platforms and intelligent products
• Access to latest tools, cloud platforms, and learning resources
• Flexible working hours and hybrid work options
• Wellness initiatives and team-building activities

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