Lead Backend Developer - Node.js / GraphQL

We are supporting a growing technology consulting firm in New York that delivers custom digital products and software solutions for enterprise clients. The team is looking for a Lead Backend Developer who can take ownership of backend architecture, API development, and technical delivery while working closely with client stakeholders and frontend/mobile teams. This is a strong fit for someone who is hands-on technically, but also comfortable operating in a consulting environment where communication, structure, and technical guidance matter as much as coding. Role Overview As Lead Backend Developer, you will be responsible for designing and building scalable backend services, APIs, and system architecture for client-facing digital products. You will collaborate with frontend developers, DevOps engineers, product stakeholders, and client teams to ensure the solution is technically sound, well-structured, and delivered effectively. The original client description emphasizes backend technical ownership, collaboration with frontend and stakeholder teams, architecture contribution, Agile delivery, documentation, and communication with non-technical audiences., * Design, build, and maintain backend services and APIs using Node.js.

• Work with GraphQL and modern API architecture.

• Help guide architecture decisions around scalability, reliability, performance, and maintainability.

• Collaborate with frontend developers, including teams working with React Native.

• Translate business and product requirements into structured technical solutions.

• Communicate technical challenges, risks, and recommendations clearly to non-technical stakeholders.

• Support the client in clarifying requirements and making practical technical decisions.

• Write clean, maintainable, reusable code.

• Participate in code reviews, testing, documentation, and Agile delivery ceremonies.

• Work with DevOps/cloud teams around CI/CD, deployment, and production troubleshooting when needed., The client is looking for someone who can act as a strong backend lead: hands-on, structured, consultative, and capable of helping shape technical direction. The right person will be able to bridge engineering execution with client-facing architecture discussions.

• Around 5 years of backend development experience.

• Strong hands-on experience with Node.js in production environments.

• Solid experience with GraphQL.

• Comfortable designing APIs and backend architecture for scalable applications.

• Experience working with frontend or mobile teams; React Native exposure is a plus.

• Strong communicator who can explain technical work to business or client stakeholders.

• Consulting mindset: able to advise, structure requirements, challenge assumptions, and help the client make sound architecture decisions.

• Comfortable in a fast-moving Agile environment.

• Strong ownership mentality and ability to work independently.

Nice to Have

• TypeScript experience.

• REST API experience.

• Cloud, CI/CD, Docker, or DevOps exposure.

• Database experience with SQL or NoSQL technologies.

• Prior consulting, agency, or client-facing delivery experience.

• Compensation: Up to approximately $180K total package, depending on experience., * Bonus: Up to 10% annually
• 401(k) with company match
• $600/month health insurance allowance

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