Senior Python Developer - AI and Backend

Senior Python Developer – AI & Back-End Engineering About the Role We are looking for an experienced Senior Python Developer to join a fast-paced development team. The role requires a strong back-end Python engineer who has some exposure to AI development or AI-enabled applications. You do not need to be an AI/ML specialist; the priority is excellent core Python engineering skills combined with an interest in applying AI technologies to real-world solutions. Previous experience within banking or financial services is highly desirable, particularly within regulated environments. The role is London-based with three days per week onsite. Key Responsibilities Design, develop and maintain robust, scalable back-end applications and services using Python.Contribute to the development of an AI-enabled Proof of Concept (PoC) within a regulated environment.Integrate AI capabilities, models and APIs into existing and new back-end applications.Work alongside technical, business and AI teams to identify and develop practical AI use cases.Prototype and evaluate new AI-enabled functionality before progressing solutions towards production.Design and develop APIs, microservices and data integrations to support application functionality.Integrate third-party APIs, internal services and relevant data sources.Ensure applications are performant, scalable, maintainable and secure.Apply appropriate development controls and security practices when working within a regulated environment.Troubleshoot, debug and enhance existing applications and services.Participate in code reviews, testing and continuous improvement of development standards.Produce and maintain clear technical documentation.Work proactively within a fast-paced environment, taking ownership of development tasks and technical challenges.Required Experience & Skills 5+ years' commercial Python development experience, ideally within back-end software engineering.Strong core Python programming and software engineering skills.Experience designing and developing back-end applications, services and APIs.Previous exposure to AI development, AI-enabled applications or AI-related PoCs.Understanding of how AI/ML capabilities can be integrated into software applications.Experience working with RESTful APIs and microservices architectures.Strong SQL skills and experience working with relational databases such as PostgreSQL or MySQL.Experience with Git or similar version control systems.Strong understanding of software development best practices, testing and maintainable code.Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.Proactive mindset with the ability to operate effectively within a fast-paced development environment.Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.Preferred Experience Previous experience within banking or financial services.Experience delivering software within regulated or highly controlled environments.Practical experience integrating AI/ML models, LLMs or AI APIs into applications.Experience contributing to AI-focused prototypes or Proofs of Concept.Exposure to cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure or Google Cloud.Experience with distributed systems and cloud-native architectures.Familiarity with additional programming languages such as Java or C++.Understanding of financial markets, trading or regulatory technology would be advantageous but is not essential.Ideal Profile You will be a strong Python engineer first, rather than a niche AI specialist. You should be comfortable picking up new technologies quickly, experimenting with AI capabilities and applying them within robust back-end applications. Experience within banking would be a significant advantage, but we are particularly interested in developers who can combine strong Python engineering, some practical AI exposure and a proactive approach to problem-solving.