Senior Backend Contractor

Nelknet (Headquarters: Remote)

backend api database python node.js go java ruby sql nosql cloud aws gcp azure ai generative ai rag platform engineering logistics architecture remote contract AI Engineer Back End Engineer Staff Engineer

Nelknet (https://nelknet.com/) is a small, experienced software consultancy building solutions for US clients, focusing on areas like AI/RAG, full-stack dev, and platform engineering. We value collaboration, responsibility, and business focus.

We are expanding our network and seeking a Senior Backend Contractor for 1099 contract opportunities. This role offers flexibility to manage your own schedule while contributing professionally to our client projects. Recent projects include developing generative AI features, platform engineering for logistics systems, architecture design, and implementing RAG pipelines.

Responsibilities:
- Design, develop, and maintain server-side logic, databases, and APIs for various client projects (e.g., AI features, logistics platforms, search engines, RAG pipelines).
- Collaborate with frontend developers, DevOps engineers, and clients.
- Write clean, scalable, and maintainable code following best practices.
- Contribute to architecture design and platform engineering efforts.
- Work independently and manage your time effectively within project timelines.

Requirements:
- Proven senior-level experience in backend development.
- Expertise in modern backend technologies (e.g., Python, Node.js, Go, Java, Ruby, SQL/NoSQL databases, Cloud platforms like AWS/GCP/Azure).
- Experience designing and building robust, scalable APIs.
- Strong English communication skills (written and verbal).
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively in a remote team environment.
- Availability for some overlap with US business hours for client communication and team collaboration.
- Experience with AI/ML, generative AI, RAG pipelines, or platform engineering is a significant plus.

This is a 1099 contracting relationship offering project-based work.