About NextLink LabsNextLink Labs is a fast growing technology firm focused on helping companies build, scale, and secure their software applications and organizations. We believe that in order for companies, teams, and products to succeed, technology must be utilized effectively and securely. We pride ourselves in helping our clients win in their respective industries.As a remote-first company with team members spread out all across the country, NextLink Labs continuously works to ensure our work environment is comfortable and collaborative. We also aim to maintain an inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive professionally and live full lives outside of work.Position SummaryNextLink Labs is seeking a motivated Software Architect to join our Custom Software Development consulting team. A successful person in this role has deep expertise in application design and will be tasked with building and maintaining web applications for our clients and will also possess a strategic mindset to contribute internally to improving our consulting practice.Key ResponsibilitiesAs a Software Architect with a strong background in Django and Python, you will design and implement robust systems, build end-to-end features for client applications, make architecture decisions to alleviate technical debt in legacy applications, and engage in technical conversations with clients to understand their pain points and how best to solve them. Your role will also encompass mentoring junior developers and assisting the team in ongoing efforts to establish internal best practices to elevate our standards of excellence. If you are a self-motivated engineer looking to take ownership of your work, we invite you to join our team at NextLink Labs.What You'll DoDesign, develop, and maintain scalable backend services and APIs using Django and PythonWork with other engineers to architect and implement microservices-based solutionsCommunicate directly with clients to give demonstrations and receive feedbackReview legacy software applications to identify and remediate technical debtWork in an agile team environment with weekly stand upsEngage in code reviews of your teammates' workContribute to internal NextLink Labs documentation and code templateEngage in thought leadership through blog posts, webinars, and other marketing materialsAssist Sales and Marketing by joining scoping calls and providing technical inputRequired Qualifications5+ years of experience building backend services with Django and PythonStrong understanding of Django ORM, querysets, and database optimization techniquesExperience designing and implementing RESTful APIs using Django REST FrameworkProficiency with relational databases (PostgreSQL)3+ years of experience with Ruby on Rails and React, or equivalent web frameworksAbility to work independently and take ownership in a variety of software engagementsAbility to scope individual features and full software projects based on client requestsExcellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills with the ability to to build buy-in, facilitate compromise, and guide client expectationsStrong unit-testing and debugging abilitiesProficient understanding of version control systems (Git)Understanding of accessibility and security complianceUnderstanding of fundamental design principles behind a scalable applicationStrong problem-solving, analytical, and strategic thinking abilities, capable of making well-informed and timely decisionsNice to HaveExperienced with DevOps tooling (AWS, Terraform, Docker, Kubernetes)Why NextLink LabsWe’re a technical consulting firm that values clarity, ownership, and outcomesCompetitive salary with bonus structureRemote-first culture, flexible work schedule, and autonomy to do your best work.Healthcare (Medical, Dental, and Vision) and 401kResponsibility and autonomy at a growing companyThe opportunity to build something big and excitingPaid parental leaveVisa SponsorshipAt this time, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship or take over sponsorship for existing visas. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship.