Sr/Lead Backend (Node, E-commerce) $$$$ Offline

We are seeking a Senior/Lead Node.js Developer to take ownership of the backend development for a SaaS e-commerce platform. The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer who can stabilize an existing codebase, drive the product to MVP, and later lead the migration to a modern architecture.

Project: Scaleside

Scaleside is a headless "Try Before You Buy" (TBYB) checkout platform for e-commerce merchants. It operates as an independent checkout system (separate from Shopify’s native checkout) that enables trial-based funnels, delayed billing, upsells, and analytics.

Context: The project is currently under active development. The initial backend was built by another team, but the client has decided to replace the vendor to improve quality and delivery speed. We have conducted a technical audit of the existing code.

State of the existing project:

• Tech Stack: Pure JavaScript, Express.js, Sequelize ORM, PostgreSQL.
• Status: Basic functionality is implemented, but it requires bug fixing, refactoring, and finalizing features to meet production standards.

• Integrations: Shopify API (for fulfillment), Authorize.net, PayPal.

   

The Next Steps

We have a clear roadmap for the next 4+ months:

1. Transition: Inherit the codebase and knowledge from the previous team.
2. MVP Launch (First 3 Months): Finalize the current application using the existing stack (Node.js/Express/Sequelize/Firebase). Fix critical issues and deliver the remaining scope for the Go-to-Market launch.
3. Modernization (Post-MVP): Once the MVP is live and stable, we plan to refactor and rewrite the backend using TypeScript and Nest.js to ensure scalability and maintainability.

Key Qualifications

• 5+ years of commercial experience in backend development.
• Strong proficiency in Node.js, TypeScript, and Express.js/Nest.js
• Deep understanding of SQL and relational database design (PostgreSQL).
• Extensive experience with Sequelize ORM or similar ORM (essential for working with the current codebase).
• Experience in analyzing and refactoring "inherited" code.
• Ability to independently make architectural decisions and deliver results without micromanagement.
• Upper-Intermediate English (B2+) for team communication.

Nice to Have

• Experience with E-commerce logic (checkouts, orders, inventory).
• Experience integrating payment gateways (specifically PayPal and Authorize.net).
• Ready to transition to TypeScript and Nest.js in the future.

Responsibilities

• Analyze, maintain, and troubleshoot the existing application.
• Design and develop new features, components, and updates for web-based applications.
• Optimize DB queries and ensure data integrity.
• Collaborate with the frontend team and project manager to ensure timely delivery.
• Plan and execute the future migration to TypeScript/Nest.js.
• Ensure code quality and write automated tests.
• Participate in Agile processes (meetings, estimations, grooming, 1:1, communication with PO and PM).
• Perform code reviews.

Hiring Process

1. Pre-screening (30 minutes) – Discussion about experience and project details.
2. Technical Interview (~1.5 hours) – Deep dive into Node.js, SQL, and architecture.
3. Final Interview – Meeting with the Product Owner/Client.

Our Culture

• Transparency: We are open about the state of the code and the challenges ahead.
• Result-Oriented: We value delivery and stability over bureaucracy.
• Growth: This is a chance to not just fix code, but to rebuild an architecture properly.
• Flexibility: Remote work, flexible hours, and a focus on work-life balance.

We Offer

• Remote work.
• Competitive payment in $USD.
• Flexible schedule.
• Paid time off (vacations, sick leaves, holidays).
• Direct impact on the product and technical roadmap.
• Opportunity to lead the technical transition to a new stack.