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Senior Backend Developer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Vantor

Senior Backend Developer, Data Platform

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$137K - $182K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Senior Backend Developer/Engineer to join our hybrid agile team and help build and scale our data platform and pipelines to support Intelligence Community AI efforts.

Guru Schools

Sr. Backend Java Developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$121K - $158K/yr

Senior Backend Java Developer Location: McLean, VA - Onsite (5 days/week) | Local candidates only Key Responsibilities * Design, build, and maintain backend services using Java and Spring Boot

Guru Schools

Senior Backend Java Developer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$121K - $158K/yr

Senior Backend Java Developer Location: McLean, VA - Onsite (5 days/week) | Local candidates only Key Responsibilities * Design, build, and maintain backend services using Java and Spring Boot

ZeniMax Media

Senior Backend Programmer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$122K - $159K/yr

In your role as Senior Backend Programmer , you will... * Help architect, build, and maintain cloud ... You have familiarity with Cloud Architecture in AWS and Azure, Containerization systems, and DevOps ...

Maxar

Senior Backend Developer, Data Platform

Reston, VA · Hybrid

$137K - $182K/yr

Minimum Qualifications: * 10+ years of professional software engineering experience, with strong backend development skills * Strong proficiencyinPython * Experience building backend systems, APIs ...

C-MCI

Java Backend Developer - Senior

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

JAVA Backend Developer (Senior) Location: Ashburn VA Why CMCI? CMCI provides management consulting and IT services that empower enterprises to achieve their business goals in today's highly ...

Aretum

Java Backend Developer - Contingent

Mclean, VA · On-site

$51 - $66.25/hr

As a Java Backend Developer, you will be embedded within a cross-functional Agile scrum team ... Contribute to infrastructure-as-code in Terraform under the guidance of senior engineers, and ...

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Senior Backend Developer information

See Washington salary details

$72.5K

$158.4K

$215.8K

How much do senior backend developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior backend developer in Washington is $158,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,500.00 and $177,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Senior Backend Developer do?

A Senior Backend Developer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the server-side logic of web applications. They work with databases, APIs, and server infrastructure to ensure that applications run smoothly, securely, and efficiently. In addition to writing robust code, they often mentor junior developers, contribute to architectural decisions, and collaborate with frontend teams to deliver seamless user experiences. Their expertise is crucial for scaling applications and implementing best practices in software development.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

L1, L2, L3, and L4 are levels used to categorize software developers, including senior backend developers, based on experience, skills, and responsibilities. L1 typically refers to entry-level, while L4 indicates senior or lead roles with greater expertise and leadership responsibilities. These levels help define job expectations, compensation, and career progression within organizations.

What is the difference between Senior Backend Developer vs Backend Developer?

AspectSenior Backend DeveloperBackend Developer
Required Experience5+ years, leadership skills1-3 years, foundational skills
ResponsibilitiesDesign architecture, mentor juniors, optimize systemsImplement features, fix bugs, write code
Skills & CertificationsAdvanced coding, system design, relevant certificationsBasic coding, database knowledge
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with cross-functional teams, often in larger projectsFocuses on individual tasks within projects

The main difference between a Senior Backend Developer and a Backend Developer lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership. Senior Backend Developers typically have more years of experience, take on complex system design, and mentor junior staff, whereas Backend Developers focus on implementing features and fixing bugs. Both roles are essential in backend development teams, but the senior role involves more strategic and leadership duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Backend Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Backend Developer, you need advanced proficiency in server-side programming languages (such as Java, Python, or Node.js), deep understanding of API design, and experience with database management, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), cloud platforms (such as AWS or Azure), and relevant certifications in backend technologies are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and leadership skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and mentor junior developers. These competencies ensure robust, scalable backend systems and drive successful project delivery in complex technical environments.

Is backend developer still in demand?

Backend developers remain in high demand due to the ongoing need for server-side applications, APIs, and database management across industries. Skills in programming languages like Java, Python, and Node.js, along with experience in cloud platforms and frameworks, enhance employability in this field.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior backend developers with extensive experience, specialized skills in high-demand technologies, and work at large tech companies or in executive roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in competitive markets or startups with significant funding.

What are common challenges Senior Backend Developers face when leading complex projects, and how can they address them?

Senior Backend Developers often encounter challenges such as integrating legacy systems with new technologies, ensuring scalability under increased load, and coordinating cross-functional teams for seamless feature delivery. Addressing these challenges typically involves proactive architectural planning, clear communication with frontend and DevOps teams, and adopting best practices like code reviews and automated testing. Staying updated on emerging technologies and fostering a culture of knowledge sharing within the team also help in overcoming technical obstacles and driving successful project outcomes.

Which is the hardest field in it?

For a Senior Backend Developer, the most challenging aspects often include mastering complex system architecture, ensuring scalability and security, and staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies like cloud platforms and programming languages. Strong problem-solving skills, knowledge of databases, and experience with debugging are essential to handle these difficulties effectively.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Developer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Backend Developer jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Backend Developer jobs in Washington? For Senior Backend Developer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Backend Developer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Backend Developer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Senior Backend Developer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Senior Backend Developer job openings:
Senior Backend Developer jobs near you

Senior Backend Developer, Data Platform

Vantor

Reston, VA • Hybrid

$137K - $182K/yr

Other

Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Vantor is forging the new frontier of spatial intelligence, helping decision makers and operators navigate what’s happening now and shape what’s coming next.  Vantor is a place for problem solvers, changemakers, and go-getters—where people are working together to help our customers see the world differently, and in doing so, be seen differently. Come be part of a mission, not just a job, where you can: Shape your own future, build the next big thing, and change the world.

To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. Citizen. This position requires an active U.S. Government security clearance, applicants who do not currently hold the required clearance will not be eligible for consideration. Employment for cleared roles is contingent upon verification of clearance status.

Export Control/ITAR: Certain roles may be subject to U.S. export control laws, requiring U.S. person status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Please review the job details below.

This position requires an active U.S. Government Security Clearance at the TS/SCI level with CI polygraph.

We are a sleek and modern software development team building mission-critical applications with real-world impact for the Intelligence Community.  

We are seeking an experienced Senior Backend Developer/Engineer to join our hybrid agile team and help build and scale our data platform and pipelines to support Intelligence Community AI efforts.   

Responsibilities:

  • Design, build, and own backend services and platform components for a modern data architecture and pipelines. 

  • Make high-impact technical decisions around architecture, data modeling and system integration   

  • Build integrations with internal and external data sources, APIs, and event streams 

  • Partner with data engineering, analytics, and product managers to define scalable data models and platform capabilities 

  • Improve reliability, observability, and performance of data workflows and backend services 

  • Implement best practices for testing, monitoring, logging, and deployment 

  • Contribute to architecture decisions around storage, orchestration, metadata management, and access patterns 

  • Help establish engineering standards for code quality, documentation, CI/CD, and operational excellence 

  • Troubleshoot and debug production systems  

  • This is a hybrid role that will require a mix of work from home and onsite work at the customer’s office in Reston, VA. 

Minimum Qualifications:

  • 10+ years of professional software engineering experience, with strong backend development skills 

  • Strong proficiency in Python 

  • Experience building backend systems, APIs, or distributed services in production environments 

  • PostgreSQL and Elasticsearch proficiency 

  • Familiarity with AWS, especially S3, RDS, and other data centric services 

  • Current/active TS/SCI with a current CI polygraph or be willing and able to obtain a CI polygraph. 

  • Bachelor's degree in a related field, e.g. Computer Science, Systems Engineering or equivalent experience 

  • Understanding of software engineering fundamentals including testing, version control, CI/CD, and system design 

  • Tenacious troubleshooting, problem solving and error fixing mentality 

  • Strong communication and collaboration skills, ability to work, collaborate and thrive on a small technical team. 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working with data platforms, data pipelines, ETL/ELT workflows, or large-scale data processing systems 

  • Gitlab and Gitlab CI experience 

  • Openshift and Helm experience 

  • Docker and containerization experience 

  • DoD 8570 IAT II and Privileged User Access requirements met (Security+, CySA+, CCNA Security, GICSP, GSEC, SSCP) 

Pay Transparency: To support pay transparency, Vantor includes salary ranges in all U.S. job postings. Starting pay for this role will fall within the listed range and will be based on factors such as experience, qualifications, skills, location, and market conditions. Candidates who meet the minimum requirements for the role should not expect to receive compensation at the top of the range. The listed range reflects the expected pay for this position, and final offers will be determined based on each candidate’s experience, expertise, and alignment with the role.

 ● The base pay for this position within the Washington, DC metropolitan area is: $137,000.00 - $182,000.00 - $200,200.00 annually.

For all other states, we use geographic cost of labor as an input to develop market-driven ranges for our roles, and as such, each location where we hire may have a different range.

Benefits: Vantor offers a competitive total rewards package that goes beyond the standard, including a robust 401(k) with company match, mental health resources, and unique perks like student loan repayment assistance, adoption reimbursement and pet insurance to support all aspects of your life. You can find more information on our benefits at: https://www.Vantor.com/careers

The application window is three days from the date the job is posted and will remain posted until a qualified candidate has been identified for hire.  If the job is reposted regardless of reason, it will remain posted three days from the date the job is reposted and will remain reposted until a qualified candidate has been identified for hire. 

The date of posting can be found on Vantor's Career page at the top of each job posting.

To apply, submit your application via Vantor's Career page.

EEO Policy: Vantor is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive workplace. We believe in fostering an environment where all team members feel respected, valued, and encouraged to share their ideas. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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