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Backend Web Developer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Lead Web Developer

Reston, VA · On-site

$125K/yr

Technical Lead / Lead Web Developer Location: Hybrid or Remote Terms: Full Time Clearance: U.S ... backend integrations. * Break down business requirements and user stories into technical tasks ...

SharePoint Web Developer (TS/SCI) * Reston, VA, USA * Full-time * Clearance: Top Secret/SCI We need ... You will coordinate with UI/UX designers, back-end developers, Farm Administrators, and customers ...

Lead Web Developer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$125K/yr

Technical Lead / Lead Web Developer Location: Hybrid or Remote Terms: Full Time Clearance: U.S ... backend integrations. * Break down business requirements and user stories into technical tasks ...

Integration of the front-end and back-end aspects of the web application Skills and Qualifications * Proficient knowledge of a back-end programming language * Understanding differences between ...

Developing back-end services, APIs, and integrations to support scalable and secure applications ... web development, or application engineering roles. * Experience with one or more programming ...

ISL is looking for a skilled, hard-working Senior Web Developer to help build amazing experiences ... Enough backend-end experience to call yourself a full-stack dev is always a plus! * Communication ...

Developing back-end services, APIs, and integrations to support scalable and secure applications ... web development, or application engineering roles. * Experience with one or more programming ...

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Backend Web Developer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$46.4K

$114K

$184K

How much do backend web developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for backend web developer in Washington, DC is $113,986.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,600.00 and $131,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Backend Web Developer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backend Web Developer, you need strong programming skills in languages such as Python, Java, or Node.js, and a solid understanding of server-side logic, databases, and application architecture. Familiarity with frameworks like Django, Spring, or Express.js, experience with RESTful APIs, and knowledge of version control systems such as Git are typically required; certifications in cloud platforms like AWS or Azure can be advantageous. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, effective communication, and team collaboration are valuable soft skills. These abilities ensure you can deliver scalable, secure, and high-performing backend solutions that drive modern web applications.

What's harder, backend or frontend?

For a backend web developer, both backend and frontend development present unique challenges; backend work involves server-side logic, databases, and APIs, while frontend focuses on user interface and experience. The difficulty depends on individual skills and preferences, but backend development often requires understanding complex systems and security considerations. Mastery of programming languages like Python or Java, and tools such as databases and server management, are essential for backend roles.

Is Backend Developer still in demand?

Backend Web Developers are in high demand due to the ongoing need for server-side programming, database management, and API development across industries. Skills in languages like Python, Java, or Node.js, along with experience in cloud platforms, enhance job prospects in this field.

What are some typical challenges a Backend Web Developer faces in their daily work?

Backend Web Developers often encounter challenges such as optimizing database performance, ensuring application scalability under heavy traffic, and maintaining security against evolving threats. They routinely troubleshoot bugs, integrate with third-party services, and ensure seamless communication between front-end and back-end systems. Collaboration with frontend developers, DevOps teams, and stakeholders is key to delivering well-architected solutions. Embracing ongoing learning and adapting to new technologies helps backend developers stay effective in this fast-paced, ever-evolving field.

What is a Backend Web Developer job?

A Backend Web Developer is responsible for building and maintaining the server-side logic, databases, and APIs that power a website or web application. They ensure that data is processed efficiently and securely, enabling seamless communication between the frontend and backend. Common technologies include programming languages like Python, Java, or Node.js, along with databases such as PostgreSQL or MongoDB. Backend developers also optimize performance, implement security measures, and integrate third-party services. Their work is essential for creating scalable, high-performing web applications.

Is 40 too old to become a web developer?

Age is not a barrier to becoming a backend web developer, as many successful developers start later in life. Skills such as programming languages, frameworks, and problem-solving are more important, and continuous learning can help overcome any age-related challenges.

What does a backend web developer do?

A backend web developer builds and maintains the server-side components of websites and applications, including databases, server logic, and APIs. They work with programming languages like Python, Java, or Ruby, and often use frameworks and tools to ensure data security, performance, and scalability. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of server management are essential for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Web Developer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Backend Web Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Backend Web Developer job openings in Washington, DC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 93% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,986 per year, or $54.8 per hour.
Lead Web Developer

$125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description
Position: Technical Lead / Lead Web Developer
Location: Hybrid or Remote
Terms: Full Time
Clearance: U.S. Citizenship Preferred; Ability to Obtain Public Trust
Travel: 0-10%
RESULTS. INNOVATION. VALUES. ACCOUNTABILITY.
That's RIVA.
We're a mission-driven IT services company and systems integrator supporting digital transformation and modernization for Federal government agencies. Since 2009, we've partnered with our customers to solve complex challenges through smart, practical innovation to deliver real outcomes where they matter most. Our teams are made up of industry-leading experts who are passionate about doing great work and making a difference. We don't just develop solutions-we support efforts that strengthen communities and serve the public good.
RIVA's culture is built on four core values: Results, Innovation, Values, and Accountability (R.I.V.A.). They guide how we work, how we collaborate, and how we measure success. Our employee-first approach is rooted in trust, ownership, and meaningful work. By investing in our people and fostering a flexible, supportive environment, employees have the opportunity to grow their skills, contribute ideas, and make an impact from day one-all while supporting missions that matter.
Position Overview
RIVA Solutions is seeking a Technical Lead / Lead Web Developer to direct day-to-day technical execution for a Federal web modernization and digital services program. The ideal candidate will lead development teams while collaborating with UX, content, QA, accessibility, infrastructure, and Government stakeholders to deliver secure, responsive, maintainable, and accessible digital products.
This role is responsible for translating business requirements into technical designs, guiding development activities, supporting deployments, and resolving complex technical issues across Drupal/WCMS platforms, APIs, integrations, search, and web applications.
Core Responsibilities
  • Lead the technical design, development, configuration, testing support, and release of website enhancements, Drupal/WCMS changes, custom modules, APIs, and backend integrations.
  • Break down business requirements and user stories into technical tasks, estimates, acceptance criteria, and implementation plans.
  • Guide developers in applying Drupal best practices, secure coding standards, responsive design, Section 508 accessibility practices, and reusable component patterns.
  • Support migrations from legacy sites or third-level domains into approved Federal client WCMS platforms, including content models, redirects, metadata, taxonomy, and validation activities.
  • Coordinate with UX and content teams to implement templates, navigation, banners, landing pages, microsites, visual designs, and interactive functionality.
  • Support CI/CD, Git branching, code reviews, peer reviews, release packaging, deployment coordination, and rollback planning.
  • Collaborate with QA and Trusted Testers to resolve functional, accessibility, browser, mobile, W3C, HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, and Drupal-related defects.
  • Coordinate technical issue resolution with Federal client IT, Federal IT operations stakeholders, hosting/cloud vendors, and other contractors.
  • Mentor developers and provide leadership during Agile ceremonies, sprint planning, demos, and backlog refinement.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience developing and maintaining Drupal or similar WCMS-based websites and web applications.
  • Strong skills in PHP, HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, REST/JSON/XML, responsive design, and modern web development practices.
  • Experience building custom modules, templates, content types, workflows, or integrations within CMS environments.
  • Experience with Agile/Scrum or Kanban delivery methodologies, user stories, backlog refinement, demos, and iterative delivery.
  • Working knowledge of Section 508/WCAG, W3C validation, browser compatibility, mobile responsiveness, and Federal web standards.
  • Experience with Git, code reviews, CI/CD processes, deployment coordination, and defect remediation.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Drupal 8/9/10 migrations, Drush, Composer, Docker/Docksal, Acquia, AWS, or similar cloud-hosted Drupal environments.
  • Experience with search technologies, AI/chatbot integration, Google Analytics/DAP, Tableau embedding, or data visualization integration.
  • Security+ or comparable certification; experience supporting ATO, FISMA, NIST, or FedRAMP-aligned environments.
  • Federal, Federal, public health, scientific dissemination, or healthcare website experience.

Salary
$125K
RIVA Benefits
  • Paid Time Off / Sick Leave
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
  • HSA/FSA Spending Accounts
  • Long- and Short-Term Disability
  • Pet Insurance
  • Wellness Program Initiatives
  • RIVA Flex (Flexible Hours and Hybrid Support, where applicable)
  • Additional Workplace Benefits

Equal Opportunity Statement
RIVA Solutions is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and related conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any protected class.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or to submit an online application, please email [email protected]. Only messages left for this purpose will be returned.