Senior Backend Engineer - Python

Senior Backend Engineer (Python) About the Role Scalera is an ETH Zurich spin-off building AI-powered procurement software for the €200B+ European construction industry. Our platform automates supplier selection, tender management, and bid evaluation, and already processes more than CHF 8 billion in tender volume for 110+ customers across Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. As a Senior Backend Engineer, you will build the backend services, APIs, and data infrastructure powering Scalera’s AI-driven procurement platform. You will work closely with the CTO, VP Engineering, teammates, and users to bring AI capabilities into production, process complex construction data, and build reliable systems as the platform scales across Europe. Key Responsibilities Own engineering problems end-to-end, including speaking with users, understanding their needs, and delivering solutions.Build and maintain Python backend services that bring AI capabilities into production, including document parsing, supplier matching, and bid scoring.Design and implement APIs and integrations connecting AI systems with frontend applications and external platforms.Develop data pipelines to ingest, normalize, and process large volumes of structured and unstructured construction data.Collaborate with engineering teammates on code reviews, testing, and CI/CD practices.Contribute ideas and experimentation around applying new AI techniques to procurement challenges.Support reliable, maintainable backend systems as Scalera grows across Europe. Required Qualifications 4+ years of backend engineering experience, with Python as the primary programming language.Strong API design skills and experience with RESTful systems.Hands-on production experience with FastAPI or Django.Solid understanding of databases, data modeling, and query optimization.Experience with CI/CD.Strong focus on code quality and maintainability.Ability to scope, prioritize, and deliver work in ambiguous environments.Interest in AI/ML systems and their behavior in production.Clear communication skills and strong team collaboration skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience with GCP, including Cloud Run, BigQuery, Pub/Sub, or similar services.Experience with data-heavy or AI-integrated product architectures.Familiarity with AI developer tools such as Cursor, Claude, or Copilot.B2B SaaS, construction technology, or procurement domain knowledge.German language skills. Skills & Competencies Python backend development.FastAPI or Django.RESTful API design and systems integration.Databases, data modeling, and query optimization.Data pipelines for structured and unstructured data.AI/ML production systems and AI integrations.CI/CD, code review, testing, code quality, and maintainability.Problem-solving and experimentation in ambiguous environments.User-focused solution development.Communication and cross-functional collaboration. Education & Experience Education No specific education requirement is stated.Experience 4+ years of backend engineering experience with Python as the primary language.Production experience with FastAPI or Django.Experience with RESTful systems, databases, data modeling, query optimization, and CI/CD. Work Arrangement & Schedule Zürich headquarters.Four days per week in-office.Remote work on Fridays.Employment type, expected weekly hours, weekend requirements, and schedule flexibility are not specified. Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary.Equity. Compliance / Additional Information Scalera is a small, fast-moving team with a low-bureaucracy working environment. You will work directly with decision-makers and collaborate closely with the CTO and VP Engineering.