Backend Software Integration Engineer

One of the largest financial institutions in the U.S. is seeking a Lead API Integration Engineer to join their AI engineering team in an effort to drive the modernization of model-serving infrastructure, transitioning from legacy platforms to Google Cloud Platform (GCP) environments like Vertex AI and BigQuery. This is a backend-focused opportunity—distinct from traditional API-only or UI-centric positions—ideal for engineers with experience building service and integration layers that allow business applications to access predictive AI model outcomes.Your work will directly empower the integration of advanced agentic AI capabilities into real business solutions, ultimately supporting both enterprise-scale AI innovation and governanceThis exciting opportunity to drive impactful security initiatives begins as a 12-month W2 contract. The position is based in San Francisco, CA. Benefits are included, and there is strong potential for extension or conversion for high performers. ***This is a 12 Month Contract*** (Possible Extension or Contract to hire) ***Not open to C2C******Must be local to the San Francisco, CA area******Must be able to work (3 Days Onsite per week)*** Job DescriptionContract Duration: 12+ MonthsAbout the Role.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and own delivery of large-scale, moderately complex backend initiatives in a hybrid onshore/offshore team setting—collaborating closely with India-based engineering teams.Design, develop, test, debug, and document backend integration layers for model-serving (e.g., service gateways for predictive and generative AI models).Front predictive AI model outputs with scalable, real-time APIs leveraging Golang or Python. Avoid Java/Spring Boot-focused or data pipeline-exclusive approaches.Build and orchestrate containerized services (Kubernetes or similar), aligning with cloud-native architectures in GCP; Linux proficiency expected.Implement CI/CD pipelines using Git and related automation, emphasizing engineering excellence and secure deployment practices.Apply your experience to relational databases, backend service integration, and secure enterprise data exchange.Act as project lead or senior contributor, providing team guidance, code review, and technical escalation support.Contribute to application modernization by aligning with frameworks such as ADK and LangChain; collaborate across teams to accelerate business use cases.Champion best practices in test-driven development (TDD) and help shape scalable, user-centric product roadmaps.Stay informed on regulatory/compliance requirements, particularly in financial services environments.Minimum Qualifications5+ years of software engineering experience, with a focus on backend service and integration development.End-to-end project/team leadership experience on multiple large-scale initiatives.Strong proficiency in Golang and/or Python (pure Python is acceptable if service/backend-centric); Rust/C++ is a plus.1+ years’ experience working in cloud environments (GCP preferred; Azure, OpenShift acceptable).Experience delivering solutions integrated with container orchestration (e.g., Kubernetes).Hands-on with CI/CD pipelines (Git), Linux, and relational data.6+ months of experience with retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) and/or agentic/genAI workflows is a plus.PhD in Computer Science or related field, or equivalent experience.Preferred QualificationsBackground in financial services, banking, or handling regulated enterprise environments.Familiarity with regulatory, compliance, and risk mitigation practices for AI/ML solutions.Proven ability to drive engineering excellence, balancing technical innovation and business priorities.Familiarity with secure, scalable architectures supporting both stateful and stateless real-time applications.What You’ll GetThe opportunity to build core backend infrastructure that delivers transformative AI capabilities to one of the world’s largest banks.Hybrid workplace flexibility and cross-location collaboration.A senior team environment focused on innovation, technical rigor, and business-impactful results.EducationBachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field preferredYou will receive the following benefits:Medical Insurance & Health Savings Account (HSA)401(k)Paid Sick Time LeavePre-tax Commuter BenefitMotion Recruitment provides IT Staffing Solutions (Contract, Contract-to-Hire, and Direct Hire) in major North American markets. Our unique expertise in today’s highest-demand tech skill sets, paired with our deep networks and knowledge of our local technology markets, results in an exemplary track record with candidates and clients.