Tech Lead - TypeScript - Node (Contract)
We're partnering with a fast-growing sports/entertainment business looking to hire a Senior Backend Engineer on a 6-month contract (outside IR35), with potential to convert to permanent (£95k). This is a hands-on tech lead role with ownership of core platform systems powering multiple websites and internal services.
The RoleYou'll take full technical ownership of the NextGen CMS and Master Data (MDM) systems, designing, developing, and mentoring a small team of engineers. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in complex, high-scale environments and wants real impact from day one.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead development across CMS and MDM systems
Maintain and expand complex backend systems (not standard CMS)
Mentor engineers and set engineering standards/patterns
Drive architecture, integrations, and system scalability
Work closely with stakeholders to deliver features and improvements
Team Environment:
5 Backend, 3 Frontend engineers, 1 Delivery Manager
Supported by 1 Architect; Product hire joining soon
Distributed across UK & Poland; hybrid working with optional Holborn office
Node.js & TypeScript in production systems
AWS or other cloud at scale
Experience owning large, complex backend systems
Proven mentorship or tech lead experience
Strong system design & architecture experience
Integration-heavy environments
Nice-to-Have:
Experience with high-scale platforms (gaming, sports, fintech, marketplaces)
DevOps/SRE awareness
Soft Skills:
Excellent communicator, proactive and collaborative
Leadership mindset with ability to influence technical decisions
Commercially aware and solution-focused
Contract: 6 months (potential perm conversion)
Rate: £575/day (flex for exceptional candidates)
IR35: Outside
Start: ASAP (before end of February ideal)
Take technical ownership of core backend systems
Mentor and shape a growing engineering team
Work on complex, high-impact platforms with real influence
Opportunity to convert to permanent role