Junior Full Stack Developer (Python, React) – JHB – Onsite

ENVIRONMENT:

• Our client is a specialist cybersecurity organisation providing advanced cybersecurity and digital forensic services to government and commercial clients. They are seeking a Python Developer to maintain, enhance and further develop in-house products and client-facing services. The role involves taking ownership of an existing web application built around a Flask-based HTML interface and a Python/FastAPI backend.
• The successful candidate will be responsible for developing new features, maintaining application functionality, resolving technical issues, improving security and supporting deployments.
• Working closely with the CTO and cybersecurity specialists, the candidate will translate business and operational requirements into reliable, secure and maintainable software solutions.
• This role is suited to a hands-on developer who is comfortable working with an existing codebase, improving production systems incrementally and taking accountability for the quality, security and reliability of the software delivered.

DUTIES:

• Take ownership of the existing application codebase, understand its architecture and identify opportunities to improve reliability, security and maintainability.
• Develop, maintain and enhance Python applications and components using Flask and FastAPI.
• Maintain and improve web interfaces, templates, forms and interactive features using HTML, CSS and JavaScript.
• Design, develop and maintain REST APIs and integrations with internal systems and external services.
• Implement and maintain authentication, role-based access controls and appropriate separation of customer data.
• Investigate and resolve application defects, performance issues and production incidents.
• Improve code structure and address technical debt through practical, incremental enhancements.
• Develop and maintain automated tests for critical application functionality and workflows.
• Manage application dependencies, configuration and the secure handling of credentials and secrets.
• Support application deployments, logging, monitoring and operational troubleshooting.
• Maintain technical documentation covering application architecture, configuration, deployment procedures and key functionality.
• Collaborate with the CTO and cybersecurity specialists to develop features aligned with operational requirements and client needs.
• Apply secure development practices to protect application functionality, customer data and system integrity.
• Review, test and maintain code, including code developed with AI-assisted development tools where applicable.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Demonstrable experience developing and supporting production Python web applications.
• Strong working knowledge of Flask and FastAPI.
• Proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript and server-rendered templates.
• Experience designing, integrating and troubleshooting REST APIs.
• Experience working with databases and writing efficient data-access code.
• Understanding of secure web development principles, including authentication, authorisation, session management, input validation and common web vulnerabilities.
• Experience using Git and structured code review practices.
• Practical experience with Linux, Docker and application deployment.
• Ability to understand unfamiliar codebases and implement changes without disrupting existing functionality.
• Strong debugging and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently while communicating progress, technical decisions and risks clearly.
• A relevant qualification in Software Development, Computer Science or a related field would be advantageous; equivalent practical experience and a proven track record of maintaining production applications will also be considered.

Advantageous Experience:

• Experience with cybersecurity, threat intelligence or digital risk monitoring platforms.
• Experience developing multi-tenant applications and subscription-based software products.
• Familiarity with Elasticsearch, background task processing, queues and large datasets.
• Experience with automated deployment pipelines and application monitoring.
• Experience improving the performance, stability and reliability of existing production platforms.
• Familiarity with AI-assisted development tools, with the ability to independently understand, review, test and maintain generated code.

ATTRIBUTES:

• Strong ownership: Takes accountability for application quality, reliability, security and ongoing maintenance.
• Analytical and problem-solving: Able to investigate complex technical issues, identify root causes and implement effective solutions.
• Security-conscious: Understands the importance of secure coding practices, data protection and application access controls.
• Quality-driven: Produces clean, maintainable and well-tested code while minimising disruption to existing functionality.
• Practical and pragmatic: Makes sound engineering decisions and improves systems incrementally without introducing unnecessary complexity.
• Adaptable and resourceful: Comfortable navigating unfamiliar codebases, learning existing architectures and working through technical challenges.
• Self-motivated: Able to work independently, prioritise tasks and take initiative when identifying improvements.
• Collaborative: Works effectively with the CTO and cybersecurity specialists to understand requirements and deliver practical solutions.
• Clear communicator: Communicates progress, technical issues, risks and proposed solutions effectively.
• Detail-oriented: Maintains high standards of accuracy, documentation, testing and security.
• Accountable and dependable: Follows through on commitments and takes responsibility for the software delivered.
• Continuous learner: Keeps up to date with relevant development practices, security improvements and emerging technologies.