Senior Backend / API Developer

DESE Research•Huntsville, AL

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced and highly capable Senior Backend / API Developer to join our software engineering team. This role is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining robust backend systems and service layers that power a suite of enterprise web applications. The position emphasizes reliability, scalability, and long-term maintainability of backend services, with a strong focus on structured data, service architecture, and integration with downstream systems, including AI-enabled capabilities via external services. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong technical expertise in the .NET ecosystem, sound engineering judgment, and the ability to collaborate effectively across frontend, database, and DevOps teams within a controlled, enterprise environment.

Requirements

5–10+ years of professional software development experience.
Strong proficiency in C# and the .NET ecosystem, including .NET Framework 4.8 and/or .NET 5+.
Demonstrated experience designing and building RESTful APIs and backend services.
Experience working in production environments with real-world users, data, and operational constraints.
Solid understanding of software architecture principles, including layered architecture, service boundaries, and separation of concerns.
Proven ability to debug, maintain, and enhance complex systems over time.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across technical and non-technical teams.
Ability to take ownership of backend systems and deliver solutions with minimal oversight.

Nice To Haves

Experience integrating with AI/ML services, including REST APIs, data pipelines, and inference workflows.
Familiarity with Azure DevOps, including build and release pipelines, repositories, and work item tracking.
Experience working in controlled or restricted environments, such as secure or air-gapped systems.
Familiarity with frontend technologies (e.g., JavaScript, MVC frameworks) to support cross-functional collaboration.
Understanding of authentication and authorization patterns, including role-based access control and enterprise identity systems.
Experience working in Agile or Scrum development environments.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and maintain RESTful APIs and backend services using C# and the .NET ecosystem.
Build and support service-oriented architectures that promote modular, scalable, and maintainable application design.
Integrate backend systems with internal and external services, including AI/ML platforms, through API consumption, data exchange, and orchestration.
Collaborate with frontend developers to define API contracts and ensure seamless integration between user interfaces and backend systems.
Support the full application lifecycle, including debugging, performance tuning, and resolution of production issues.
Contribute to architectural decisions, including service boundaries, data flow, and system design patterns.
Ensure code quality through testing, peer reviews, and adherence to established development standards.
Participate in deployment and release processes, working closely with DevOps personnel.
Document system architecture, APIs, and technical decisions to support long-term maintainability and knowledge sharing.
Work independently, prioritize tasks effectively, and deliver high-quality solutions in a structured, team-oriented environment.