Backend Lead

We are codenamed Rock Up - a startup building a brand new social networking & messaging app that integrates real-time geolocation features, and we are looking for a skilled Backend Lead to join as a key hire for the founding product team. Your main responsibility will be designing, developing, and maintaining the backend infrastructure that powers our mobile app, ensuring a seamless, scalable, and high-performance user experience.

• Architect, develop, and maintain scalable and secure backend systems for our mobile app;
• Design and implement real-time communication, geolocation services, and data storage solutions;
• Build and optimize APIs to support a smooth and responsive mobile experience;
• Ensure system reliability, security, and efficiency through best practices in database management and cloud infrastructure;
• Lead decisions on tech stack, infrastructure, and best practices for backend development;
• Monitor and improve system performance, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal response times;
• Collaborate with the mobile engineers to ensure seamless integration between frontend and backend;
• Establish CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and deployment strategies for smooth development workflows;
• Provide technical leadership, recruit and mentor future backend team members;
• Ensure transparency and timely completion of development tasks;
• Participate in laying the groundwork for development team processes;
• Help define the scope of the overall project.

• 5+ years of experience in backend development, ideally in consumer-facing mobile apps;
• In-depth understanding of the entire mobile development process (design, development and deployment);
• Strong expertise in Java, Go, or Node.js, with experience in scalable backend architectures;
• Proficiency in working with databases (PostgreSQL, MongoDB, or Firebase);
• Experience designing and implementing RESTful and WebSocket-based APIs;
• Deep understanding of real-time communication technologies (WebRTC, MQTT, Firebase Realtime Database, etc.);
• Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, GCP, or Azure) and containerization tools like Docker and Kubernetes;
• Strong understanding of authentication, authorization, and data security best practices;
• Comfortable working in an early-stage startup environment, making key architectural decisions and adapting quickly;
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to balance performance, scalability, and maintainability;
• Familiarity with Scrum, Kanban or other agile methodologies;
• Experience managing backend development teams is preferred;
• Upper intermediate level of English, knowledge of Russian will be an advantage.

• The thrill of a startup combined with resources of a mature organization;
• Relocation package (if applicable), including work permit arrangements;
• Hybrid work schedule in sunny Limassol, remote work is negotiable in case of a great match;
• Competitive remuneration;
• Private medical insurance;
• Fully equipped office with daily fruits, breakfast on Wednesdays, pizzas on Thursdays and snacks on Fridays;
• Welcome baby bonus and birthday vouchers;
• Opportunities for professional growth.