Senior Backend Engineer (temporary contract)

About You You’re looking for a challenge where you can take ownership of backend services powering an operational dashboard product. You will build and maintain application services, from an events module to data export capabilities and resource-status widgets on Google Cloud, working closely with an application lead who owns API design and the platform’s SSO/RBAC integration. This is a backend-focused role where you’ll contribute to service development, integrations, testing, and data access while working within an established technical architecture and delivery process. Note: This role operates under a 4-month contractor model , with at least 4 hours of daily overlap with U.S. Eastern business hours required. You Bring to Applaudo the Following Competencies: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field is desired, or equivalent professional experience. 6+ years of professional backend development experience using Node.js, Python, Java, or equivalent technologies. Strong hands-on experience building and deploying backend services on Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Strong experience designing and implementing REST APIs. Experience with relational databases and data warehouse access patterns, including BigQuery, Cloud SQL, or equivalent technologies. Practical experience with automated testing, including unit and integration testing. Experience integrating backend services with existing authentication and authorization models, including SSO and RBAC. Experience working within structured engineering environments involving documented designs, code reviews, and ticket-based delivery. Proficiency with Git and collaborative software development workflows. Experience using AI-assisted development tools such as Claude Code or similar tools as part of daily development workflows. Excellent communication skills in English, required to collaborate effectively with U.S.-based teams and stakeholders. Ability to maintain at le