Requirements: English
Company: Engaige
Region: Utrecht , Utrecht
Do you want to lead the engineering evolution of a cutting-edge AI platform not from a management desk, but from the codebase? Are you passionate about backend systems, APIs, and building the infrastructure behind real-time AI products? This is your chance to take ownership, shape architecture, and build the technical backbone of a next-gen customer experience platform. Your Employer: Redefining AI-powered Communication Engaige is an AI-first startup based in Utrecht. We help enterprise clients rethink their customer interactions combining workflows, documents and communication into one intelligent, real-time environment. Built on FastAPI, WebSockets and PostgreSQL, our platform is scaling fast. We recently moved into a brand-new office and work together in a high-speed, high-trust, in-person environment. With recent growth and key hires onboarded, were now looking for a Lead Engineer who can help us scale our backend infrastructure and shape its technical direction. Your Role: Lead Backend Engineer (with Fullstack Context) As our Lead Backend Engineer, youll take the lead on designing and scaling core backend systems. From real-time WebSocket APIs to cloud-native services and database performance your work ensures the platform is fast, reliable and built to scale. Youll work closely with the frontend team (React) and have fullstack awareness, but your primary focus is backend logic, architecture and delivery. What youll do: Build and scale backend systems using Python (FastAPI) Design real-time APIs (REST WebSockets) for complex workflows Own backend performance, architecture and cloud infrastructure Collaborate with frontend engineers to ensure seamless fullstack delivery Guide architectural decisions and improve CI/CD, testing and observability Move the platform from early prototype to stable, scalable foundation What were looking for: 5+ years of experience in backend development Strong skills in Python and experience with frameworks like FastAPI Knowledge of distributed systems, API design and database optimization Exposure to frontend frameworks (like React) not required to lead Product-focused mindset you think in flows, not just functions Based in the Netherlands (we work on-site in Utrecht) What we offer: Competitive salary around 80,000 depending on experience Equity package negotiable we want long-term builders A modern office in Utrecht (100% on-site collaboration) A technical leadership role without management responsibilities A chance to shape the platform at a critical scaling phase Ready to build something that actually ships? Lets talk Already living in the Netherlands no relocation or visa sponsorship (IND) available Lets Engaige collaborates exclusively with Haystack People for this role. Apply with your CV via d.gontha@haystackpeople.nl or call Desley Gontha at +31 6 83155319 .