Software Developer - Backend / API Focus (Freelance)
Zuri Group
Software Engineering
United States · Remote
USD 60-72 / hour
Posted on Feb 25, 2026
Overview: We are seeking an experienced Software Developer to help design, implement, and enhance software updates for an existing production system. This role will focus on backend development, API architecture, and database design, with an emphasis on building scalable, maintainable solutions in a cloud-based environment.
Job Responsibilities
- Design and implement enhancements and updates to an existing software platform;
- Develop and maintain robust, well-documented APIs;
- Collaborate on database schema design and performance optimization;
- Write clean, maintainable, and testable code using modern backend frameworks, such as Node.js, Nest.js, and/or Typescript;
- Participate in technical design discussions and contribute to architectural decisions;
- Troubleshoot, debug, and improve system reliability and performance; and
- Work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality solutions.
Relevant Skills & Experience
- 5+ years of experience designing and implementing backend services and APIs;
- Experience building applications using NestJS or a comparable Node.js framework;
- Understanding of and exposure to API architecture and development (RESTful services, versioning, authentication, etc.);
- Experience working with PostgreSQL or another relational database;
- Experience with Azure or another major cloud platform;
- Experience working with and improving existing systems, not just greenfield development;
- Highly analytical, technically proficient, and able to learn new tools and software quickly.
- Drive to solve problems efficiently and creatively on your own within delivery timelines.
- Experience developing with a focus on prioritizing clean architecture, documentation, and long-term maintainability
- Demonstrated commitment to fostering and maintaining an environment of diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
- The above statements are not intended to be a complete statement of job content, rather to act as a guide to the essential functions performed by the employee assigned to this classification. Management retains the discretion to add or change the duties of the position at any time.
Nice-to-have
- Familiarity with TypeScript a plus;
- Direct experience with NestJS;
- Strong database design skills, including schema design and query optimization;
- Experience with cloud-native or containerized deployments; and
- Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and DevOps best practices, Azure preferred.
Pay rate for this role ranges between $60 per hour to $72 per hour, depending on experience.
Benefits
Full-time employees have access to the following:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, some plans covered 100% by Zuri Group.
- Health Savings Account (HSA) contribution by Zuri Group on eligible plans.
- Basic Life Insurance provided by Zuri Group.
- Group plans for voluntary coverage including Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Life, Accident, Critical Illness, and Supplemental Vision.
- 401(k) Plan with 3% employer contribution.
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for health and dependent care expenses.
- Company cell-phone plans and work-from-home equipment.
- Wellness program and an emphasis on work-life balance.
- Continuing education time and reimbursement.
Location
We are currently working remotely with no return to office date. Applicants may reside in the following states: AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, IL, KS, MA, MD, MI, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI, and WV. Due to FL legislation, Zuri Group is required to participate in e-verify.
Zuri Group is a safe, inclusive workplace for people of all backgrounds and walks of life. We encourage applications from people of all races, religions, national origins, genders, sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions, and ages, as well as veterans and individuals with disabilities. Some candidates may see a long list of job requirements and feel discouraged because they don’t match every single bullet point – we suggest, please apply anyway. We value potential, curiosity, and willingness to learn, and we are committed to providing training and support to help our employees grow and develop their skills.