Team Lead Backend Developer (Node.js)

About the Role

Are you a technical leader who loves staying close to the code while scaling high-performance engineering teams? We are looking for a Team Lead Backend Developer (Node.js) to spearhead our cross-functional development team in Lisbon. In this highly hands-on role, you will shape the architecture of a high-load fintech platform, drive technical excellence, and mentor a talented group of engineers building secure, real-time payment systems.

About the Client

Our partner is a leading payment gateway provider that operates a massive ecosystem of global brands. They simplify complex financial transactions through smart routing technology, real-time monitoring, and uncompromising SSL/PCI DSS Level 1 security. As their exclusive recruitment partner, Lionhires manages their full-cycle talent acquisition, connecting top-tier engineering talent directly with their core scaling teams.

What You Will Do

• Lead & Mentor: Manage a cross-functional team of engineers, conducting 1:1s, periodic feedback sessions, performance evaluations, and tailored individual development plans.
• Drive Execution: Oversee team resource allocation, assign tasks, and balance workloads to ensure seamless, timely product releases.
• Stay Hands-On: Actively write, review, and optimize high-quality code, personally contributing to core product developments and feature enhancements.
• Architect for Scale: Lead the design and implementation of an in-house fintech platform, focusing on microservices, messaging systems, and high-load scalability.
• Integrate Financial Systems: Build and manage complex payment API integrations with banks, PSPs, and third-party financial services.
• Champion Agile Culture: Participate in and facilitate Scrum/Kanban ceremonies to ensure team alignment, transparency, and adherence to agile best practices.
• Tackle Technical Debt: Continuously improve platform quality by refactoring legacy code and optimizing system architecture for secure financial integrations.
• Document & Standardize: Partner with Engineering Managers to define new engineering guidelines and ensure thorough documentation of payment flows.

What You Bring

• Educational Background: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• Proven Leadership: 8+ years of professional IT experience, including 3+ years explicitly leading or managing engineering teams.
• Fintech Expertise: 2+ years of experience working within fintech, banking, or financial systems (direct experience with real-money transactions is highly preferred).
• Backend Mastery: 3+ years of commercial experience with Node.js and a deep, strong proficiency in TypeScript.
• Tech Stack Proficiency: Hands-on experience working with RabbitMQ, Redis, MySQL, and MongoDB.
• API & Architecture Savvy: Expert knowledge of REST, GraphQL, and WebSockets alongside a strong track record of building microservices within Kubernetes environments.
• Communication: Advanced or fluent English communication skills, both written and verbal.

What's in It for You

• Competitive Compensation: An attractive salary package aligned with your seniority and leadership experience.
• Impactful Work: The opportunity to own and shape the architecture of a massive, global payment gateway ecosystem.
• Growth & Culture: A transparent, collaborative, and growth-oriented work environment with clear paths for professional advancement.
• Modern Tech Stack: Work daily with cutting-edge cloud, containerization, and messaging technologies.
• Prime Location: Join a vibrant team onsite in tech-forward Lisbon.