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Backend Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Backend Engineer designs, builds, and maintains scalable backend systems and services that power learning solutions for Pansophic Learning. This role is primarily responsible for backend ...

We are hiring a Back End Engineer to help manage, expand and oversee our rapidly growing portfolio of federal contracts. This position is contingent upon contract award supporting the U.S. Department ...

Sr. Backend Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

About the Role The onshore Senior Back-End Engineer leads backend microservices architecture and build quality for the platform, directing a pod of offshore back-end engineers while remaining ...

Direct and oversee a pod of offshore back-end engineers by assigning work, conducting code reviews, and ensuring production-ready output. * Design and own the Azure SQL transactional cache schema.

JOB SUMMARY: We're looking for a Senior Backend Engineer with deep Django and API experience to help build and scale the backend powering our mobile app, web platform, internal tools, payments ...

JOB SUMMARY: We're looking for a Senior Backend Engineer with deep Django and API experience to help build and scale the backend powering our mobile app, web platform, internal tools, payments ...

They are seeking a Senior Backend Engineer to help build and scale the backend powering their mobile app and web platform, while collaborating closely with engineering leadership on architecture and ...

Sr Java Backend engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

They are seeking a Senior Java Backend Engineer to work on a new development project focused on managing customer data and creating a self-service system, utilizing Java and Python along with cloud ...

Sr Java Backend engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

They are seeking a Senior Java Backend Engineer to work on a new development project focused on managing customer information and building scalable backend systems using Java and Python.

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Backend Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$60K

$146.4K

$197.3K

How much do backend engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for backend engineer in Virginia is $146,395.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,900.00 and $170,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a backend engineer?

Backend Engineers are software developers who focus on building and maintaining the server-side logic, databases, and APIs that power web and mobile applications. They ensure that the data requested by the frontend systems is delivered efficiently and securely. Their work involves writing code in languages like Python, Java, or Node.js, integrating with databases, and optimizing the overall performance of applications. Backend Engineers also play a crucial role in ensuring data integrity and implementing security best practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backend engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backend Engineer, you need strong programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or Node.js, a solid understanding of algorithms, and experience with databases, typically supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with tools such as RESTful APIs, cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure), version control systems (like Git), and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes) is common. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential for building robust, scalable systems and collaborating efficiently within development teams.

What are some common challenges backend engineers face when integrating new technologies into existing systems?

Backend Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, maintaining data consistency, and minimizing service disruptions during deployment. They must carefully plan migrations, coordinate with frontend and DevOps teams, and implement thorough testing to avoid introducing bugs or security vulnerabilities. Effective communication and documentation are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring a smooth transition.

What is the difference between Backend Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectBackend EngineerSoftware Developer
Primary FocusDesigning, building, and maintaining server-side applications and databasesDeveloping software across various layers, including frontend and backend
Skills & CertificationsProficiency in server-side languages (e.g., Java, Python), databases, APIsProficiency in multiple programming languages, software design, and sometimes frontend skills
Work EnvironmentTypically in backend teams, working on server infrastructure and APIsCan work on full-stack or specific areas; broader scope
Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, startups, and enterprises focusing on backend systemsWidespread across all software development sectors

While both roles involve coding and software development, Backend Engineers specialize in server-side logic, databases, and APIs, whereas Software Developers may work on both frontend and backend components. The roles often overlap, but Backend Engineers focus more on the infrastructure that powers applications.

Are backend engineers still in demand?

Backend engineers are currently in high demand due to the ongoing need for server-side development, cloud computing, and scalable systems. Skills in programming languages like Java, Python, and frameworks such as Node.js are highly valued, and experience with database management and API development enhances job prospects.

What's a typical backend engineer salary?

A backend engineer's salary varies based on experience, location, and company size, but typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually in many regions. Senior roles or those with expertise in cloud services, databases, and programming languages like Java or Python tend to earn higher salaries. Entry-level positions usually start around $60,000 to $80,000, with benefits often including health insurance and paid time off.
More about Backend Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Backend Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Backend Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Backend Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Backend Engineer jobs in VA?

For Backend Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Backend Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 30% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,395 per year, or $70.4 per hour.

Senior Backend Engineer

Mclean, VA • On-site

Pansophic Learning
Education Programs Administration • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

The Senior Backend Engineer designs, builds, and maintains scalable backend systems and services that power learning solutions for Pansophic Learning. This role is primarily responsible for backend development, API design, and system integrations, ensuring high performance, reliability, and scalability. The Backend Engineer is expected to deliver high-quality solutions in a timely manner while continuously improving backend architecture and development practices.

This role reports directly to the Software Development Manager and works closely with Software Engineers, QA/Test Engineers, and cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate is proactive, innovative, and able to contribute ideas that enhance current and future backend systems.

This position will work 4 days per week in office in Tysons Corner, VA.

Responsibilities:

  • Design, develop, and maintain scalable backend services and APIs for K-12 learning environments
  • Build and manage RESTful APIs using Node.js and Express
  • Design and implement data models using relational and NoSQL databases
  • Develop and maintain backend systems using Amazon Web Services (AWS)
  • Ensure performance, scalability, and reliability of backend systems
  • Implement best practices for code management, version control, and deployment using Git
  • Troubleshoot and resolve production issues, ensuring system stability
  • Collaborate with frontend developers, QA engineers, and product teams to deliver end-to-end solutions
  • Contribute to system architecture decisions and backend design improvements
  • Support deployment processes and maintain CI/CD workflows

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 10+ years of overall software development experience
  • 5+ years of professional experience with Node.js and Express
  • Expert-level proficiency in JavaScript and TypeScript
  • Strong experience building and consuming RESTful APIs
  • Deep understanding of backend architecture and distributed systems
  • Strong SQL skills, preferably with PostgreSQL
  • Experience with NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, DynamoDB)
  • Experience working with AWS services such as Lambda, ECS, EC2, RDS, S3, DynamoDB, and API Gateway
  • Experience with message queue technologies and backend design patterns
  • Experience with Git version control and modern branching strategies
  • Experience working in Unix/Linux environments
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to debug complex systems
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative environment
  • Ability to pass federal and state criminal background checks (FBI/BCI)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with Docker and Docker Compose
  • Familiarity with AWS CDK
  • Experience building microservices or distributed systems
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to collaborate effectively across teams and handle multiple priorities
Additional Information:

Pansophic Learning is committed to building high-quality, scalable backend systems that support innovative education solutions. This role is ideal for an experienced backend engineer who thrives in a collaborative environment and is passionate about building robust, efficient systems.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

It is our policy to abide by all federal, state and local laws prohibiting employment discrimination based solely on a person's race, color, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, pregnancy, childbirth, physical disability, mental and/or intellectual disability, age, military status, veteran status (including protected veterans), marital status, registered domestic partner or civil union status, familial status, gender (including sex stereotyping and gender identity or expression), medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other protected status except where a reasonable, bona fide occupational qualification exists.

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