ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Senior Backend Python Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bayer

Staff Software Engineer, Backend

Chicago, IL

$117K - $171K/yr

Actively develop senior engineers into Staff-level leaders, sponsoring their growth into ... Java, Python) with the ability to write understandable, testable code with an eye towards ...

Diverse Lynx

Senior AI ML Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Strong Python expertise with experience building and deploying production-grade backend systems * Hands-on experience developing applications using LLMs, including prompt engineering and ...

Digitas

Senior Software Engineer

Chicago, IL

$126K - $166K/yr

Senior Software Engineer Epsilon is building the next generation Retail Media Network (RMN ... Strong backend expertise in Java, with experience in high-performance, distributed systems.

Tempus

Senior Software Engineer, OS Ecosystem

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

The Role As a Senior Software Engineer on the OS Ecosystem team, you will act as a core technical ... Implement, test, and support backend web services and data pipelines in TypeScript, and Python ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSenior Backend Python JobsSenior Backend Python Jobs in Chicago, IL

Senior Backend Python information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16.5K

$152.7K

$196.8K

How much do senior backend python jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior backend python in Chicago, IL is $152,702.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $149,900.00 and $172,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Senior Backend Python Developer, you need expertise in Python programming, strong knowledge of backend frameworks (such as Django or Flask), and experience with database management, often backed by a degree in computer science or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, containerization tools like Docker, cloud platforms (e.g., AWS), and possibly certifications in cloud or Python technologies are common requirements. Outstanding problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to mentor junior developers help set top performers apart. These competencies ensure the development of robust, scalable, and maintainable backend systems that support business objectives.

Which pays more, C++ or Python?

For a Senior Backend Python developer, C++ developers often earn higher salaries due to the complexity and performance demands of C++ in systems programming and high-performance applications. However, Python skills are highly in demand for backend development, data science, and automation, which can also lead to competitive compensation. Salary differences depend on industry, experience, and location, but both languages offer strong earning potential in tech roles.

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

AspectSenior Backend PythonBackend Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related, 5+ years experience, Python expertiseBachelor's in CS or related, 2-4 years experience, Python knowledge
Work EnvironmentTech companies, startups, enterprise systemsTech firms, startups, software agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries requiring scalable backend solutionsCommon in web development and software services
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior roles, responsibilities, salaryEntry to mid-level backend roles, skill requirements

Senior Backend Python professionals typically have more experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities compared to Backend Developers. They often work on complex systems, mentor junior staff, and have a broader understanding of architecture. Backend Developers focus on building and maintaining backend services with less emphasis on leadership or strategic planning.

What are some common challenges Senior Backend Python developers face when working on large-scale systems?

Senior Backend Python developers working on large-scale systems often encounter challenges such as ensuring application scalability, maintaining code quality across distributed teams, and optimizing performance for high traffic. Balancing the integration of new features with legacy system constraints can also be demanding. Effective communication and collaboration with frontend teams, DevOps, and product managers are crucial for delivering reliable and maintainable backend solutions.

What does a Senior Backend Python Developer do?

A Senior Backend Python Developer designs, builds, and maintains the server-side logic of web applications using Python. They are responsible for creating robust APIs, optimizing databases, ensuring application security, and integrating third-party services. In addition, they often mentor junior developers, contribute to architectural decisions, and collaborate closely with frontend and DevOps teams. Their work ensures that applications are scalable, reliable, and efficient. Senior developers typically have several years of experience and deep knowledge of Python frameworks like Django or Flask.

What is the highest paying job in Python?

The highest paying Python-related roles are typically senior positions such as Lead Developer, Solutions Architect, or Machine Learning Engineer, especially in industries like finance, tech, and data science. These roles often require advanced skills, experience, and knowledge of frameworks, cloud platforms, and data management, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually in many regions.

Is Python in demand for backend?

Python is highly in demand for backend development due to its simplicity, versatility, and extensive libraries like Django and Flask. Many companies seek backend developers skilled in Python to build scalable and efficient web applications, making it a valuable skill for backend roles.

How much does a senior Python developer make?

A senior Python developer typically earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often have expertise in frameworks like Django or Flask and may hold certifications or advanced degrees that influence salary levels.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Python jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Backend Python jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Backend Python jobs in Chicago, IL? For Senior Backend Python jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Backend Python jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Backend Python jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Senior Backend Python jobs near you
Senior Lead Software Engineer, Back End/Full Stack (Intelligent Foundations & Experiences)

Senior Lead Software Engineer, Back End/Full Stack (Intelligent Foundations & Experiences)

Capital One

Riverwoods, IL

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Capital One rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 135 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 141 rated banks

Job description

Senior Lead Software Engineer, Back End/Full Stack (Intelligent Foundations & Experiences)

Do you love building and pioneering in the technology space? Do you enjoy solving complex business problems in a fast-paced, collaborative, inclusive, and iterative delivery environment? At Capital One, you'll be part of a big group of makers, breakers, doers and disruptors, who love to solve real problems and meet real customer needs. We are seeking Back End/Full Stack Software Engineers who are passionate about marrying data with emerging technologies. As a Capital One Software Engineer, you'll have the opportunity to be on the forefront of driving a major transformation within Capital One.

Intelligent Foundations & Experiences (IFX) is a powerful collective of horizontal technology organizations that are driving Capital One's real-time intelligent future. Together with our partners in the Enterprise and across lines of business, we deliver broad-reaching technical solutions and advance state-of-the-art science to help every Capital One associate and our 100+M customers succeed.

What You'll Do:

  • Lead a portfolio of diverse technology projects and a team of developers with deep experience in distributed microservices, and full stack systems to create solutions that help meet regulatory needs for the company

  • Share your passion for staying on top of tech trends, experimenting with and learning new technologies, participating in internal & external technology communities, mentoring other members of the engineering community, and from time to time, be asked to code or evaluate code

  • Collaborate with digital product managers, and deliver robust cloud-based solutions that drive powerful experiences to help millions of Americans achieve financial empowerment

  • Utilize programming languages like Java, Python, SQL, Node, Go, and Scala, Open Source RDBMS and NoSQL databases, Container Orchestration services including Docker and Kubernetes, and a variety of AWS tools and services

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree

  • At least 6 years of professional software engineering experience (Internship experience does not apply)

  • At least 1 year experience with cloud computing (AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's Degree

  • 9+ years of experience in at least one of the following: Java, Scala, Python, Go, or Node.js

  • 3+ years of experience with AWS, GCP, Azure, or another cloud service

  • 4+ years of experience in open source frameworks

  • 1+ years of people management experience

  • 2+ years of experience in Agile practices

Capital One will consider sponsoring a new qualified applicant for employment authorization for this position.

The minimum and maximum full-time annual salaries for this role are listed below, by location. Please note that this salary information is solely for candidates hired to perform work within one of these locations, and refers to the amount Capital One is willing to pay at the time of this posting. Salaries for part-time roles will be prorated based upon the agreed upon number of hours to be regularly worked.

Chicago, IL: $209,000 - $238,500 for Sr. Lead Software Engineer


McLean, VA: $229,900 - $262,400 for Sr. Lead Software Engineer


Plano, TX: $209,000 - $238,500 for Sr. Lead Software Engineer


Richmond, VA: $209,000 - $238,500 for Sr. Lead Software Engineer


Riverwoods, IL: $209,000 - $238,500 for Sr. Lead Software Engineer







Candidates hired to work in other locations will be subject to the pay range associated with that location, and the actual annualized salary amount offered to any candidate at the time of hire will be reflected solely in the candidate's offer letter.

This role is also eligible to earn performance based incentive compensation, which may include cash bonus(es) and/or long term incentives (LTI). Incentives could be discretionary or non discretionary depending on the plan.

Capital One offers a comprehensive, competitive, and inclusive set of health, financial and other benefits that support your total well-being. Learn more at theCapital One Careers website. Eligibility varies based on full or part-time status, exempt or non-exempt status, and management level.

This role is expected to accept applications for a minimum of 5 business days.No agencies please. Capital One is an equal opportunity employer (EOE, including disability/vet) committed to non-discrimination in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Capital One promotes a drug-free workplace. Capital One will consider for employment qualified applicants with a criminal history in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable laws regarding criminal background inquiries, including, to the extent applicable, Article 23-A of the New York Correction Law; San Francisco, California Police Code Article 49, Sections 4901-4920; New York City's Fair Chance Act; Philadelphia's Fair Criminal Records Screening Act; and other applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding criminal background inquiries.

If you have visited our website in search of information on employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Capital One Recruiting at 1-800-304-9102 or via email at RecruitingAccommodation@capitalone.com. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.

For technical support or questions about Capital One's recruiting process, please send an email to Careers@capitalone.com

Capital One does not provide, endorse nor guarantee and is not liable for third-party products, services, educational tools or other information available through this site.

Capital One Financial is made up of several different entities. Please note that any position posted in Canada is for Capital One Canada, any position posted in the United Kingdom is for Capital One Europe and any position posted in the Philippines is for Capital One Philippines Service Corp. (COPSSC).

What Capital One employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply