Purpose of the job:

As a Backend Engineer at VALR, your primary responsibility will be to architect, develop, and maintain robust backend systems that power our platform. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the scalability, security, and reliability of our exchange infrastructure while adhering to industry best practices.

What will you be doing:

• Design, develop, and maintain Kotlin-based backend services.
• Implement and integrate REST APIs and/or WebSockets for seamless communication between different components of the exchange platform, while also extending and improving our API.
• Leverage Google Cloud Platform to deploy and manage scalable infrastructure.
• Incorporate CI/CD concepts, version control, and containerization to streamline the development and deployment processes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including frontend engineers, designers, and product managers, to deliver high-quality features and products.
• Develop RESTful APIs and microservices to build best-in-class product features, extend our platform's functionality, and enhance user experience.
• Optimise and scale backend systems to handle high traffic volumes and ensure low-latency responses.
• Create troubleshooting tools and participate in code reviews, automated testing, and continuous integration to maintain code quality.
• Implement internal processes and tooling to improve development efficiency and streamline workflows.
• Write easy-to-read, maintainable code and adhere to coding standards and best practices.

What we look for in you:

• Practical experience is more relevant than a formal qualification.
• Extensive experience in backend development with proficiency in Kotlin, Java, or other JVM-based languages.
• 6+ years experience working in production environments.
• Strong understanding of REST APIs and/or WebSockets for building scalable and real-time communication systems.
• Hands-on experience with cloud platforms like AWS and GCP, along with knowledge of associated services and tools.
• Familiarity with CI/CD concepts, version control systems (e.g., Git), and containerization technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to tackle complex technical challenges.
• Effective communication skills with the ability to collaborate within cross-functional teams.
• Passion for cryptocurrencies and alternative financial systems.
• A natural inclination to help people and the ability to explain technical details simply.
  

What can you expect from VALR:

• Competitive salary: Get paid well to work in an exciting industry.
• Leave: Compliance with statutory leave required by individual countries, in addition to flexible leave.
• Remote work: Work from wherever you like. Employees must ensure that there is secure, stable internet connectivity in order to work effectively remotely.
• Home office setup: A Mac laptop and a discretionary allowance to buy all the extras needed to work happily from home—all of it yours to keep after three years. Terms and Conditions will apply.
• Learning fund: An annual upskilling budget of R16,000 per employee, which will be converted to the respective currency of the employee's payment, in addition to scheduled VALR training.
• Performance bonus: When you contribute to VALR’s success, you’ll be rewarded with discretionary bonuses.
• Regular get-togethers outside of work.
• Annual company retreats.