Software Engineer - Python (contractual role)

We are looking for a strong, hands-on Python Backend Engineer with excellent programming fundamentals, problem-solving ability, and a clear understanding of software design.The ideal candidate should be comfortable building backend applications using Python, designing APIs, modelling data, and writing clean, reliable, and well-tested code. Advanced experience with microservices, distributed systems, asynchronous programming, or cloud-native architecture is not mandatory, as these areas can be developed on the job.Candidates may use AI-assisted development tools, but they must be able to independently review, explain, validate, debug, and take complete ownership of the generated code.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign, develop, and maintain backend applications using PythonBuild clean and reliable REST APIs using FastAPI, Flask, Django, or similar frameworksConvert business requirements into clear technical implementationsApply strong programming fundamentals and object-oriented design principlesDesign data models, entities, relationships, and database schemasWrite readable, modular, maintainable, and testable codeDebug application issues and perform structured root-cause analysisWrite unit tests and handle validation, edge cases, and failuresParticipate in code reviews and clearly communicate technical decisionsUse AI and LLM-based development tools responsibly while retaining complete understanding and ownership of the implementationRequirements2-3 years of hands-on software development experienceStrong knowledge of Python fundamentals, including:Data types and control flowFunctions, classes, objects, and inheritanceEncapsulation, abstraction, and polymorphismLists, dictionaries, sets, and tuplesExceptions and error handlingModules, packages, and dependency managementIterators, generators, decorators, and context managersStrong understanding of object-oriented programming and software design principlesGood programming, logical reasoning, and problem-solving abilityUnderstanding of data structures, algorithms, and time and space complexityExperience building REST APIs using FastAPI, Flask, Django REST Framework, or similar frameworksUnderstanding of HTTP methods, status codes, validation, and API error handlingGood understanding of database fundamentals, including:Tables and relationshipsPrimary and foreign keysConstraints and indexesTransactions and query designExperience writing unit tests and debugging Python applicationsAbility to design simple and appropriate solutions without unnecessary abstractionsAbility to clearly explain the behaviour and purpose of implemented codeAbility to review and validate AI-generated code before using itPreferred SkillsExperience with MySQL or PostgreSQLFamiliarity with Redis, Kafka, RabbitMQ, Celery, or cloud platformsExposure to microservices and distributed systemsBasic understanding of asynchronous programming using asyncioExperience working in a product-focused or strong engineering environmentExposure to applications handling meaningful production trafficBasic frontend knowledge is an added advantageBenefitsBest-in-class salary: We hire strong talent and compensate accordinglyProximity Talks: Meet and learn from designers, engineers, product leaders, and AI practitionersContinuous learning: Work with a world-class team and stay close to the latest in AI, engineering, and product developmentHigh-impact work: Build AI-first systems and products used at scale by global clientsAbout UsProximity is the trusted technology, design, and consulting partner for some of the biggest Sports, Media, and Entertainment companies in the world. We're headquartered in San Francisco and have offices in Palo Alto, Dubai, Mumbai, and Bangalore.Since 2019, Proximity has built high-impact, scalable products used by millions of users every day. Today, we are a global team of engineers, designers, product managers, and experts solving complex problems and building cutting-edge technology at scale.