Backend Engineer - Enterprise Knowledge & AI Platform
2 Vacancies | Leeds, Manchester or Edinburgh | Hybrid - 2 Days on Site
Contract: Initial term to 20 December 2026, with a view to extend | multi-year programme
We're looking for two Backend Engineers to join a major UK financial services organisation embarking on an exciting technology transformation.
You'll be part of a multi-year programme building a new enterprise knowledge platform from scratch, designed to connect AI services and applications securely with enterprise systems, tools, and data.
This is a genuine greenfield opportunity where you'll help shape the architecture and build scalable, resilient services supporting AI agent workflows, enterprise knowledge access, integrations, and business process automation.
What you'll be doing
Build backend services using Java 20% more focus on Python 80% and/or Node.js
Develop secure, scalable REST APIs
Design microservices and event-driven architectures
Work with Kafka/Pub/Sub
Conversant with GCP
Implement OAuth, SAML and SSO
Build cloud-native applications using Kubernetes/OpenShift and containers
Develop CI/CD, monitoring and observability capabilities
Work closely with AI, Data, Architecture and Security teams
What we're looking for
Strong backend engineering experience with Java, Python, Node.js or similar
Experience with APIs, microservices and distributed systems
Understanding of event-driven architecture and messaging
Experience with cloud, containers and Kubernetes/OpenShift
Knowledge of enterprise security, authentication and authorisation
Experience building reliable, production-grade platforms
The Opportunity
Join a multi-year strategic technology programme and help build a new enterprise AI and knowledge platform from the ground up.
The initial contract runs until 20 December 2026, with a view to extending as the programme continues.
TO APPLY - PLEASE APPLY WITH AN UP-TO-DATE CV
Candidates will ideally show evidence of the above in their CV in order to be considered.
Please be advised if you haven't heard from us within 48 hours then unfortunately your application has not been successful on this occasion, we may however keep your details on file for any suitable future vacancies and contact you accordingly.
Pontoon is an employment consultancy. We put expertise, energy, and enthusiasm into improving everyone's chance of being part of the workplace. We respect and appreciate people of all ethnicities, generations, religious beliefs, sexual orientations, gender identities, and more. We do this by showcasing their talents, skills, and unique experience in an inclusive environment that helps them thrive.
We use generative AI tools to support our candidate screening process. This helps us ensure a fair, consistent, and efficient experience for all applicants. Rest assured, all final decisions are made by our hiring team, and your application will be reviewed with care and attention
