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

Data Society

Sr. Backend Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

About the Role The onshore Senior Back-End Engineer leads backend microservices architecture and ... Proficiency with Azure DevOps CI/CD pipelines and security-gated build processes (Veracode or ...

Urban Legend

Senior Backend Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY: We're looking for a Senior Backend Engineer with deep Django and API experience to ... DevOps & Tooling * Comfortable working with Docker * Experience deploying to Heroku or similar ...

Urban Legend

Senior Backend Engineer

Alexandria, VA

JOB SUMMARY: We're looking for a Senior Backend Engineer with deep Django and API experience to ... DevOps & Tooling * Comfortable working with Docker * Experience deploying to Heroku or similar ...

Antithesis

Senior Backend Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

They are seeking a Senior Backend Engineer to design and operate core platform systems, ensuring performance and correctness across the stack while mentoring other engineers. Responsibilities : • ...

Urban Legend

Senior Backend Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

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 ...

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 ...

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Senior Backend Developer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$72.5K

$158.3K

$215.7K

How much do senior backend developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior backend developer in Washington, DC is $158,323.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,400.00 and $177,200.00 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 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.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Developer jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Backend Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Backend Developer jobs in Washington, DC? For Senior Backend Developer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Backend Developer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Backend Developer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Senior Backend Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Backend Developer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $158,323 per year, or $76.1 per hour.

Sr. Backend Engineer

Data Society

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

About Data Society Group
At Data Society Group, we provide the highest quality, leading-edge, industry-tailored data and AI training and solutions for Fortune 1,000 companies and federal, state, and local governmental organizations. We partner with our clients to educate, equip, and empower their workforces with the skills they need to achieve their goals and expand their impact. Our portfolio of brands and services sits at the intersection of people, data, and AI and consists of:
  • CDO Magazine, the trusted voice of global data and AI leadership
  • The Data Lodge, a pioneer in data literacy and cultural transformation
  • Data Society, delivering applied AI education and custom-built solutions
  • InspiredMinds!, a convening force behind the world's most inclusive AI community

We are working to empower the workforces of the future; if you're as passionate about transforming workplaces with the power of Data & AI as we are, we'd love to hear from you!
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 hands-on in service design, API contract ownership, and CI/CD pipeline governance. In this role, you will serve as the technical authority on all backend decisions, from Azure SQL cache schema design through write-path logic, Azure Service Bus patterns, and security compliance. You will work closely with the onshore Solution Architect, Integration Lead, and Sr. Front-End Engineer to ensure the backend layer is production-ready and validated every sprint.
While the center of gravity for this role is backend, we are looking for a full-stack engineer who is comfortable working across the stack - from API and data layer design through the React/typescript frontend that consumes them.
This role is work-from-home (remote) though must be able to commute to client offices in Falls Church, VA as needed (estimated every 2 weeks). This is a full-time W2 employment position with benefits. Please note that this role is tied to a client contract and is structured as an initial 9-month position. Opportunities for extension or long-term placement are highly likely based on client renewal and project performance.
Responsibilities
As the Senior Back-End Engineer, you will set architectural standards, oversee service layer quality, and guide offshore engineering efforts. Your core responsibilities include:
  • Architecture & Leadership: Lead .backend microservices architecture, defining service boundaries, API contract standards, and write-path design patterns across all functional areas. Direct and oversee a pod of offshore back-end engineers by assigning work, conducting code reviews, and ensuring production-ready output.
  • Database & API Layer Design: Design and own the Azure SQL transactional cache schema. Design and implement REST API endpoints exposed through Azure API Management (APIM), consumed by the React frontend.
  • Integration & Business Logic: Implement write-path logic that routes commit actions (budget approvals, PO releases, change orders) through Azure Service Bus to OIC flows and back to the ERP. Enforce business logic, data validation, and error handling standards within the service layer.
  • Pipeline Compliance & Security: Own CI/CD pipeline compliance for backend code, ensuring all commits pass Veracode SAST + SCA security scanning before merging.
  • Demos & Client Handoff: Lead bi-weekly sprint demos for backend workstreams, ensuring all service layer work is demo-ready on schedule. Resolve and triage backend defects during SIT, UAT, and post-launch hypercare within agreed SLA windows. Conduct knowledge transfer to the client team ahead of the support handoff.

Required Skills & Experience
  • 6-8 years of back-end development experience, with a strong proficiency in Python and TypeScript/Node.js.
  • Fullstack engineer with a backend bent - able to contribute to a React/Typescript frontend when needed.
  • Demonstrable experience leading or directing offshore back-end engineering teams.
  • Strong experience designing and building REST APIs exposed through an API gateway (Azure APIM preferred).
  • Proficiency with Azure SQL, schema design, query optimization, and working with a delta-refreshed transactional cache pattern.
  • Experience with Azure Service Bus or similar async messaging infrastructure, including retry logic, dead-letter handling, and error queues.
  • Solid understanding of microservices architecture and separation of concerns between API gateway, service layer, and data layer.
  • Proficiency with Azure DevOps CI/CD pipelines and security-gated build processes (Veracode or similar SAST tools).
  • Experience using AI coding assistants (e.g., Claude Code, GitHub Copilot, Cursor) for pair programming, service design, architecture documentation, and code review (AI-assisted development is standard practice on this engagement).
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to lead sprint demos, run code reviews with offshore teams, and communicate technical decisions to non-technical stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience building enterprise financial or ERP applications.
  • Experience integrating with Oracle Fusion Cloud or similar ERP platforms via REST/SOAP APIs.
  • Familiarity with event-driven architecture patterns: Service Bus, event triggers, idempotency, retry/dead-letter handling.
  • Azure-certified or demonstrable hands-on Azure cloud experience (AZ-204 Developer or AZ-305 Solutions Architect preferred).

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