Senior Developer - Python
Senior Backend Engineer (Python | AWS) £50,000 per annum Fully Remote – UK Based Permanent, Full-TimeA well-established UK insurance organisation is undertaking a major backend transformation programme, rebuilding a legacy PHP platform into a modern, scalable Python-based architecture hosted in AWS.This is a senior-level engineering role focused on designing and delivering the next generation backend platform that will underpin future digital products.The role is heavily Python-focused. PHP knowledge is beneficial only to support understanding of the legacy system during migration — it is not the primary technology moving forward.The Opportunity You’ll play a key role in the architecture and delivery of a modern cloud-native backend platform, helping transition core functionality from a legacy PHP estate into a scalable, secure Python environment.This is a hands-on engineering position with architectural influence — ideal for someone who enjoys shaping technical direction while remaining close to code.Key Responsibilities Platform Modernisation
- Architect and develop scalable backend services using Python
- Design and implement secure, well-structured RESTful APIs
- Lead the re-engineering of legacy functionality into modern, cloud-native services
- Contribute to long-term backend architecture decisions
- Design and build solutions within AWS environments
- Apply cloud best practices for scalability, resilience and security
- Contribute to CI/CD pipelines and deployment workflows
- Embed monitoring, logging and observability within cloud-hosted systems
- Support phased migration away from the existing PHP platform
- Provide technical oversight during system replacement and integration
- Reduce technical debt while maintaining service continuity
- Participate in technical reviews and architectural discussions
- Promote coding standards and clean architecture principles
- Mentor junior developers where appropriate
- Contribute to Agile ceremonies and cross-functional collaboration
- Strong commercial experience developing backend systems in Python
- Experience designing and implementing RESTful APIs
- Proven experience building and deploying applications within AWS (e.g. Lambda, ECS, API Gateway, CloudWatch, DynamoDB, Cognito or similar services)
- Experience working in cloud-native or distributed architectures
- Strong understanding of security, authentication and secure API design
- Experience with CI/CD pipelines and modern DevOps practices
- Familiarity with Git-based version control workflows
- Working knowledge of PHP (legacy context only)
- Experience modernising or replacing legacy systems
- Event-driven or serverless architecture exposure
- Background within financial services or regulated environments
- Genuine greenfield-style rebuild within an established organisation
- Senior-level influence on platform architecture
- Cloud-first engineering environment
- Fully remote UK role
- Long-term technology investment roadmap