Senior Backend Engineer - Python (UK Remote/Hybrid)

Transforming Additive Manufacturing Through Intelligent Systems

Are you passionate about building robust, data-intensive systems that power the future of manufacturing? Join our innovative team at the intersection of advanced manufacturing, AI, and enterprise-scale system integration.

We're seeking an experienced Backend Engineer to architect and develop mission-critical systems for our Manufacturing Execution Platform. You'll be working on complex challenges including real-time production monitoring, AI-powered quality control, comprehensive traceability systems, and seamless integration with external manufacturing partners and suppliers.

This role offers the unique opportunity to shape both our technical architecture and product direction while working alongside experts in UX, AI, and manufacturing domain knowledge.

• Manufacturing Execution Systems: Design traceable, data-intensive workflows managing orders, designs, and production lifecycles
• AI-Powered Features: Implement LLM-based systems for intelligent manufacturing insights, automated quality assessment, and predictive analytics
• System Integration: Build robust APIs connecting with external manufacturing partners, suppliers, and enterprise systems
• Vector Database Solutions: Develop semantic search and similarity matching for design optimization and quality control
• Real-time Data Pipelines: Handle high-volume sensor data, production metrics, and quality measurements

Essential Experience:

• 3+ years commercial Python development with focus on backend systems
• 3+ years database design and optimization (PostgreSQL preferred)
• 1+ years hands-on experience with LLM technologies (LangChain, vector databases, RAG systems)
• Proven track record designing and implementing RESTful APIs at scale
• Experience with data-critical systems where accuracy and traceability are paramount
• Strong understanding of modular, testable code architecture
• Experience with agile delivery and continuous integration practices

The Ideal Candidate:

• Thrives on transforming complex requirements into elegant, scalable solutions
• Has an eye for detail and understands the criticality of data integrity in manufacturing
• Can balance rapid prototyping with production-ready, maintainable code
• Knows when to dive deep and when to collaborate with domain experts
• Is excited about expanding their AI/ML knowledge in practical applications

As a key technical contributor in our growing startup, you'll:

• Have direct impact on product direction and technical decisions
• Work with cutting-edge AI technologies in real manufacturing environments
• Build systems that directly enable sustainable, efficient manufacturing
• Enjoy the autonomy to make architectural decisions while having support when needed
• Be part of a "T-shaped" team where learning and cross-functional collaboration are valued

Must Have:

• 3+ years commercial Python 3.x development
• 3+ years PostgreSQL or equivalent database experience
• 1+ years LLM/AI experience (LangChain, vector databases, RAG implementations)
• RESTful API design and implementation experience
• GitHub portfolio demonstrating relevant work (please include link)
• Right to work in the UK

Highly Valued:

• Interest or experience in 3D printing/additive manufacturing
• C# development experience
• Frontend development skills (JavaScript/TypeScript)
• Experience with manufacturing systems, ERP integration, or IoT data processing
• Knowledge of containerization (Docker) and cloud platforms

We're looking for engineers who can demonstrate their commitment to code quality and engineering excellence. Please include a link to your GitHub profile showcasing projects that highlight your ability to write clean, well-tested, maintainable code - particularly those involving complex data processing, API development, or system integration.

We may be small, but we take our commitment to a diverse workplace really seriously and measure our success rigorously. Diversity of thought, background, and action makes us better, so you would be doing us a favour by applying if you consider yourself from a diverse background, even if you don't quite hit all the requirements above. Maybe add a short note. And if you have any feedback about how we could change our outreach, positioning, or requirements to attract more diverse talent, we would be delighted to hear from you.