Principal Software Engineer

The Role

We are looking for a Principal Software Engineer to join the Scrums.com talent network. This is a technical leadership role. You will set architectural direction, make technology decisions that stick, and write the code that proves them out. Client teams will look to you for the kind of judgement that only comes from years of building and maintaining production systems.

What You Will Work On

• Define system architecture for complex web applications built on Python and Django
• Make build-vs-buy and technology selection decisions with long-term maintainability in mind
• Write production code in critical areas: data models, API design, integration patterns, performance-sensitive paths
• Conduct architecture reviews and provide technical guidance to senior and mid-level engineers
• Identify and address systemic technical debt before it becomes a delivery blocker
• Collaborate directly with client CTOs, engineering leads, and product owners

What We Look For

• 8+ years of software engineering experience, with significant time in Python and Django
• Track record of making architectural decisions on systems that scaled (not just prototypes)
• Deep understanding of distributed systems, API design, database modelling, and caching strategies
• Experience mentoring engineers and elevating the technical standard of a team
• Strong opinions held loosely. You can defend a technical position and change it when the evidence shifts.
• Comfortable working directly with client leadership across timezones

Why Scrums.com

Scrums.com is not a job board. It is a talent network that connects African engineers with international client projects across the UK, US, and Europe. You join the platform, get vetted, and get matched to real engagements with companies that need your specific skills.

What that looks like in practice:

• Work with global clients from where you are. No relocation required.
• Long-term engagements, not one-off gigs. Some of our engineers have been embedded with the same client for over two years.
• A dedicated talent specialist who knows your skills, matches you to the right projects, and supports you through onboarding and beyond.
• Interview preparation and the ability to pursue multiple opportunities at once.
• No fees, no subscription. The platform is free for engineers.

You bring the engineering. We handle the sourcing, the vetting, the matching, and the client relationship. Apply once, get considered for every relevant project that comes through.

Skills

Python, Django, System Design, Technical Leadership