Mid-Level Java Backend Engineer at Zeraki

Key Responsibilities

1. Backend Engineering & System Design

• Design, build, and maintain high-performance backend services using Java and modern frameworks (e.g., Spring Boot).

• Lead segments of backend feature development, with minimal supervision.

• Refactor and optimize existing systems to improve performance, maintainability, and scalability.

• Contribute to Zeraki’s engineering standards, code review guidelines, and documentation practices.

• Participate in architectural discussions and begin to specialize in selected backend domains (e.g., distributed systems, integrations, messaging).

2. Production Operations & Quality Assurance

• Support deployment, monitoring, and maintenance of services in production environments.

• Ensure high availability and reliability of backend systems through proactive monitoring and incident response.

• Write and maintain comprehensive test coverage, including unit, integration, and performance tests.

3. Productivity & Execution

• Manage multiple tasks or project streams simultaneously with minimal oversight.

• Deliver project components that meet specifications, timelines, and quality expectations.

• Bring efficiency to workflows, identifying blockers early and proposing practical solutions.

4. Problem Solving & Innovation

· Independently troubleshoot complex backend issues, from logic errors to system bottlenecks.

· Anticipate future system constraints and contribute forward-looking improvements.

· Introduce innovative ideas to improve reliability, security, and developer productivity.

5. Collaboration & Mentorship

• Mentor junior engineers, assisting them with code reviews, debugging, and best practices.

• Work seamlessly with Product, QA, CX, and Ops teams to deliver high-quality features.

• Communicate clearly and contextually during project discussions, sprint reviews, and architecture sessions.

What We’re Looking For

Experience & Skills

• 3–5+ years of hands-on experience with Java backend development.

• Proficiency in Java frameworks such as Spring Boot, and experience building RESTful or microservices architectures.

• Strong understanding of relational and NoSQL databases.

• Experience with cloud platforms, containerization (Docker/Kubernetes), and CI/CD pipelines.

• Strong debugging and performance optimization skills.

• Ability to handle complex technical challenges independently.

Mindset & Working Style

• A builder who enjoys creating scalable, resilient systems.

• A proactive problem solver who anticipates issues before they escalate.

• A team player who values collaboration, clarity, and accountability.

• Passionate about education and aligned with Zeraki’s mission to transform learning across Africa.