Lead Backend and API Developer

Initial 12 month contract + 12 month extension optionQLD, NSW, VIC or ACT + Hybrid working optionsAustralian Citizenship is essential We are seeking an experienced EL2 Lead Developer to provide technical leadership across the design, development and operation of enterprise-scale digital platforms and APIs within a Federal Government environment. This is a hands-on technical leadership role focused on the backend and API layer that supports web applications, portals and mobile applications. You will lead the evolution of a modern API platform connecting digital channels with enterprise systems, including Salesforce and MuleSoft-based integrations. The role will also play an important part in adopting modern engineering practices, including AI-assisted development, automated testing, cloud-native architectures, CI/CD and platform automation. Responsibilities: Lead the design, development and evolution of enterprise-scale backend services and consumer API platforms.Define and maintain API architecture, technical standards and engineering practices using technologies including Golang and GraphQL.Provide technical leadership, mentoring and guidance to backend developers.Work closely with Salesforce, MuleSoft, frontend and platform engineering teams to deliver integrated digital solutions.Drive modern software engineering practices, including AI-assisted development, automated testing, CI/CD, observability and platform automation.Contribute to the reliability, security and operational performance of services running across AWS, Kubernetes and Cloudflare environments.Support architecture reviews, technical governance and technology decision-making.Ensure solutions are secure, scalable, maintainable and aligned with longer-term architecture objectives. Essential experience: Proven experience leading the design, development and delivery of enterprise-scale backend services, API platforms and integration solutions.Strong technical expertise across Golang, GraphQL, API architecture, authentication and authorisation, service-to-service communication and modern integration patterns.Experience designing and operating cloud-native applications using Kubernetes and AWS, including Amazon EKS.Strong understanding of engineering standards, code review, automated testing, CI/CD and software delivery governance.Experience using AI-assisted software engineering tools to improve development efficiency and quality while maintaining strong engineering oversight.Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor and develop engineering teams.Strong stakeholder and collaboration skills, with experience working across architecture, integration, Salesforce, delivery and business teams. Desirable experience: Consumer-facing API platforms supporting multiple digital channels, including web, portal and mobile applications.Cloudflare, including Zero Trust, Access, Tunnels and edge security capabilities.Integration architectures involving Salesforce, MuleSoft or comparable enterprise platforms.Technology delivery within Federal Government, regulated or highly governed environments. This role will be offered as an initial 12 month contract with opportunity to extend. Please note: Australian Citizenship is mandatory for this role (current Baseline or NV1 preferred). To apply please send your resume or contact Nat on 0430 292 875 or natalie@blackroc.co