 
        
        Senior Backend or Full Stack Developer (Contract, AI-Driven Environment)
We’re looking for an experienced full stack or backend-focused senior developer to support API development and backend delivery for a high-traffic consumer platform. You’ll work alongside front-end engineers to build scalable, secure, and performant systems using modern tools and AI-assisted development.
You’ll be a good fit if you:
 * Deliver production-ready APIs fast and independently
 * Have proven experience with consumer-facing platforms
 * Use AI coding tools (Cursor, Claude Code, Codex, or similar) to speed up development
 * Make confident technical decisions with minimal guidance
 * Follow clear architectural standards and established development patterns
 * Understand backend performance, scalability, and security at production scale
 * Build reliable, maintainable APIs and data systems
 * Collaborate effectively with front-end developers to design and implement seamless integrations
 * Apply caching and optimization techniques for high-traffic environments
We’re not looking for:
 * Developers needing extensive supervision or mentoring
 * Anyone without production experience in consumer-facing systems
 * Those who avoid AI coding tools
Core Technical Requirements:
 * Node.js (extensive production experience)
 * RESTful API design and development (production experience)
 * Database design and optimization (SQL and/or NoSQL)
 * Authentication, authorization, and security best practices
 * AI coding tools (GitHub Copilot, Claude, Cursor, or similar)
Nice to Have:
 * React JS / Next.js (for full stack capability)
 * Payload CMS
 * Azure
 * Microservices architecture
Contract Details:
 * North West UK (hybrid)
 * Competitive day rate
 * Immediate start