Backend Engineer

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Backend Engineer to support a next-generation federal mission-software program focused on modernizing cloud-native operations. This position is based in a hybrid environment with locations including Washington, DC, Arlington, VA, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Denver. The Backend Engineer will design, build, and maintain backend services, APIs, and cloud-integrated capabilities that directly support mission-critical federal operations. This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer who wants to work with modern technologies, contribute to high-impact systems, and grow within a fast-moving, mission-driven environment. Active Secret Security Clearance Required.

• Develop backend services and APIs using Python in a production environment
• Integrate AWS services including EC2, Lambda, ECS/EKS, S3, RDS, CloudWatch, and Fargate
• Build and maintain GraphQL or REST interfaces for mission-critical applications
• Support AI/LLM integrations with platforms such as OpenAI, Anthropic, and AskSage
• Implement scalable, secure, and cost-efficient cloud architectures
• Troubleshoot backend issues, optimize performance, and improve system reliability
• Collaborate with frontend engineers, AI engineers, and product teams in an Agile environment
• Contribute to CI/CD pipelines, DevSecOps tooling, and infrastructure automation using Terraform or similar IaC tools

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
• 3+ years of professional backend or full-stack engineering experience
• Strong proficiency in Python and API development (REST or GraphQL)
• Experience with AWS services (Lambda, ECS/EKS, EC2, S3, RDS, CloudWatch)
• Hands-on experience with Docker and containerized applications
• Familiarity with Kubernetes deployments (EKS preferred)
• Experience with Terraform or other Infrastructure-as-Code tools
• Strong Git workflow experience (GitHub/GitLab)
• U.S. Person status and ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance

• Experience integrating AI/LLM APIs (OpenAI, Anthropic, AskSage)
• Background in cloud-native distributed systems
• Experience in startup or fast-paced engineering environments
• Strong troubleshooting, debugging, and performance optimization skills

Competitive salary range: $120,000 $180,000 (depending on experience) Equity opportunities depending on program Comprehensive benefits package including PTO, paid holidays, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and sick leave Hybrid work flexibility depending on location