Lead Python Developer

Lead Backend Engineer (Python)Location: Kirkland, WA (Hybrid during onboarding)Employment Type: Full-TimeReports To: DirectorCompensation: $150,000 – $180,000 DOE + Comprehensive BenefitsAbout the CompanyOur client is an award-winning technology company in the entertainment and media space, consistently recognized as one of the Best Places to Work over multiple years. Operating on a global scale, they build products used worldwide and are currently experiencing significant hyper-growth driven by strong market demand and continued innovation.The organization is known for developing cutting-edge, AI-powered platforms that are transforming how live and digital experiences are produced and delivered. With a strong culture of innovation, collaboration, and ownership, this is an environment where engineers have real influence on both product direction and technical strategy—and where career advancement happens quickly for high performers.About the RoleWe are seeking a Lead Backend Engineer (Python) to play a key role in building and scaling the company’s core backend services and APIs. This is a hands-on technical leadership position where you will write production code daily while also mentoring engineers and shaping backend architecture.You will work closely with engineering leadership and frontend teams to deliver highly scalable, reliable, and well-architected systems. As the team continues to grow, this role offers a clear fast-track path into broader technical leadership and people management responsibilities.This position is ideal for someone who thrives in fast-moving, high-growth environments, is comfortable with ambiguity, and enjoys solving complex problems using modern backend and AI-driven technologies.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical LeadershipDesign and implement core backend APIs and services, including user management, authentication, and system integrationsMake architectural decisions that balance rapid delivery with long-term scalability and maintainabilityEstablish backend engineering standards, testing strategies, and code review best practicesPartner closely with frontend engineers to define clean, well-documented API contractsProactively identify, prioritize, and resolve technical debtHands-On Backend DevelopmentWrite high-quality, production-grade Python code on a daily basisBuild and maintain RESTful APIs with strong test coverageDesign data models and database schemas for core platform servicesImplement secure authentication and authorization workflowsDevelop background job processing and integration servicesMentorship & Team GrowthMentor junior and mid-level engineers through code reviews and pairing sessionsSupport career development and technical growth across the backend teamFoster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing engineering cultureParticipate in hiring and onboarding as the team scalesCross-Functional CollaborationPartner with engineering leadership to shape the technical roadmap and sprint prioritiesWork closely with DevOps on CI/CD pipelines, infrastructure, and monitoringParticipate in sprint planning, backlog grooming, and retrospectivesClearly communicate technical decisions and tradeoffs to non-technical stakeholdersRequired Qualifications5+ years of professional software development experience3+ years of backend development using PythonStrong experience with backend frameworks such as FastAPI, Flask, Django, or similarSolid understanding of relational databases and SQL (PostgreSQL preferred)Proven experience designing and implementing RESTful APIsStrong testing mindset and experience writing maintainable, well-documented codeExperience mentoring or leading other engineersProficiency with Git and collaborative development workflowsStrong written and verbal communication skillsPreferred QualificationsExperience with async Python (asyncio, ASGI frameworks)Familiarity with AI/ML systems or LLM integrationsExperience with background job processing (Celery, RQ, etc.)Knowledge of containerization tools such as DockerExperience with real-time communication (WebSockets, SSE)Understanding of authentication protocols (OAuth2, JWT, session-based auth)Cloud experience (Azure preferred; AWS/GCP also valued)Startup or high-growth company experienceAI-Assisted Development CultureThis organization actively embraces AI-assisted development. Engineers are encouraged to use modern AI tools to accelerate development while maintaining high standards of quality and security.Candidates should be comfortable:Using AI tools to assist with design, debugging, and automationCritically reviewing AI-generated code and configurationsKnowing when to rely on AI—and when deep engineering judgment is requiredNo prior AI specialization is required—just curiosity and openness to learning.What’s OfferedCompetitive compensation and comprehensive benefits (Health, Dental, Vision)Generous PTO and sick leaveOpportunity to work on global, high-impact productsExposure to cutting-edge AI and backend technologiesFast-track career growth in a rapidly scaling organizationDirect access to engineering leadership and decision-makersHybrid work model with flexibility after onboardingSmall, collaborative team where your work has visible impact