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CONTRACT Backend Engineer Jobs

Overview

Discover top contract Backend Engineer jobs on Haystack, the leading IT job board connecting skilled developers with exciting short-term opportunities. Whether you specialize in Java, Python, Node.js, or other backend technologies, find flexible contract roles that match your expertise and advance your career today. Start your search for the best Backend Engineer contract jobs now!
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RPG Developer
Proactive Appointments
London
Fully remote
Mid
£400/day - £500/day
RECENTLY POSTED
java
Remote - Java experience required
We are seeking a highly skilled RPG Developer with strong full stack development expertise and a background in Java to join our dynamic team. This role will involve working on critical systems within the distribution and warehousing domain, driving innovation, and delivering high-quality solutions.
Key Responsibilities
Develop, enhance, and maintain RPG ILE applications with a focus on distribution and warehousing systems.
Contribute to full stack development initiatives, leveraging Java and Grails where appropriate.
Design and implement robust, scalable, and secure solutions.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams in an Agile/Scrum environment.
Perform system analysis, technical design, and provide innovative solutions to complex business problems.
Work independently while maintaining strong communication with the wider team.
Key Skills & Experience
Proven experience as an RPG Developer with ILE programming expertise.
Strong knowledge of Java and/or Grails for full stack development.
Desirable skills:
Familiarity with distribution and warehousing business processes.
Solid understanding of Agile/Scrum methodologies.
Hands-on experience with Kafka integration.
Proficiency with GIT for version control.
Strong skills in analysis and design, with the ability to translate business requirements into technical solutions.
Ability to work independently and manage priorities effectively.
RPG Developer
Due to the volume of applications received for positions, it will not be possible to respond to all applications and only applicants who are considered suitable for interview will be contacted.
Proactive Appointments Limited operates as an employment agency and employment business and is an equal opportunities organisation
We take our obligations to protect your personal data very seriously. Any information provided to us will be processed as detailed in our Privacy Notice, a copy of which can be found on our website
Software Development Engineer
Matchtech
Not Specified
Hybrid
Mid
£320/day - £400/day
RECENTLY POSTED
linux
git
processing-js
confluence
bitbucket
postgresql
+2
Outside IR35
Hybrid working West Midlands
Key Responsibilities:
Develop software solutions to improve work processes, including data processing and administrative tasks using Python.
Enhance the existing reporting database which utilises Confluence and integrate Confluence data into Python KPI tracking systems.
Support the transition of existing processes to Microsoft SharePoint, PowerApps, and Dataverse, and integrate these into the current Python process automation environment.
Proactively define requirements and make software proposals, iterating to reach optimal solutions.
Job Requirements:
Good degree or equivalent qualification in Software, Computer Science, or Software Engineering discipline (e.g., 2:1 or higher).
Experience and proficiency in Python, including referencing external data sources via APIs.
Knowledge of Linux, Docker, Git (Bitbucket), PostgreSQL, and HTML/JavaScript.
Familiarity with O365, including Microsoft SharePoint online and Microsoft Dataverse.
Clear thinker with a proactive attitude and strong communication skills.
Experience using software development and project management tools.
Ability to exhibit good logical analysis of data and problem-solving skills.
Demonstrates clear ownership of tasks, with capability to build relationships internally and externally.
Personal Attributes
Good Degree or equivalent (e.g. 2:1 or higher in a Software, Computer Science or Software Engineering discipline).
Clear thinker, good communicator and pro-active attitude. Good at logical analysis of data and problem solving.
Experience using software development and project management tools
Demonstrates clear ownership of tasks. Able to build relationships internally/externally.
Required Software knowledge and experience:
Python (including familiarisation with referencing external data sources via API’s)
Linux
Docker
Git (Bitbucket)
PostgreSQL
HTML/JavaScript
O365 (including Microsoft SharePoint online and Microsoft Data verse)
If you are a Software Development Engineer with the necessary skills and experience looking to contribute to the automotive sector through innovative software solutions, we would like to hear from you. Apply now to join our client’s dynamic team.
Senior Data Engineer
Primus Connect
Edinburgh
Hybrid
Senior
£550/day - £615/day
RECENTLY POSTED
terraform
python
vault
delta-lake
pyspark
Edinburgh 4 days per week on-site
6 months (likely extension)
550 - 615 per day outside IR35
Primus is partnering with a leading Financial Services client who are embarking on a greenfield data transformation programme. Their current processes offer limited digital customer interaction, and the vision is to modernise these processes by:
Building a modern data platform in Databricks
Creating a single customer view across the organisation.
Enabling new client-facing digital services through real-time and batch data pipelines.
You will join a growing team of engineers and architects, with strong autonomy and ownership. This is a high-value greenfield initiative for the business, directly impacting customer experience and long-term data strategy.
Key Responsibilities:
Design and build scalable data pipelines and transformation logic in Databricks
Implement and maintain Delta Lake physical models and relational data models.
Contribute to design and coding standards, working closely with architects.
Develop and maintain Python packages and libraries to support engineering work.
Build and run automated testing frameworks (e.g. PyTest).
Support CI/CD pipelines and DevOps best practices.
Collaborate with BAs on source-to-target mapping and build new data model components.
Participate in Agile ceremonies (stand-ups, backlog refinement, etc.).
Essential Skills:
PySpark and SparkSQL.
Strong knowledge of relational database modelling
Experience designing and implementing in Databricks (DBX notebooks, Delta Lakes).
Azure platform experience.
ADF or Synapse pipelines for orchestration.
Python development
Familiarity with CI/CD and DevOps principles.
Desirable Skills
Data Vault 2.0.
Data Governance & Quality tools (e.g. Great Expectations, Collibra).
Terraform and Infrastructure as Code.
Event Hubs, Azure Functions.
Experience with DLT / Lakeflow Declarative Pipelines:
Financial Services background.
Java Developer - Active SC
Hays Technology
London
Fully remote
Mid
£600/day - £640/day
RECENTLY POSTED
java
linux
aws
javascript
kafka
restful
+1
Up to 640 per day (Inside IR35)
London / Remote
6 months
My client is an instantly recognisable consultancy who urgently requires a Lead Full Stack Developer to join a business-critical programme.
Key Requirements:
Proven experience working as a Lead Java Developer within the public sector
Active Security Clearance (SC)
Java (8/11/17+): Expert-level programming and deep understanding of the language and its core libraries
Spring Boot: Expert in building RESTful APIs and microservices
AWS: Strong experience with core AWS services (EC2, S3, Lambda, IAM, etc.)
Kafka / Messaging Systems: Expertise in building event-driven architectures
SQL: Strong experience with relational databases and query optimization
REST / JSON APIs: Designing, developing, and consuming scalable APIs
Docker: Proficiency in containerizing applications for local and cloud environments
Communication: Excellent communication skills to convey complex ideas effectivel
Nice to have:
JavaScript & ReactJS: Experience building or integrating with front-end applications
Linux in a containerised environment
Immediate availability
If you’re interested in this role, click ‘apply now’ to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn’t quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C’s, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)
Data Integration Engineer
JAM Recruitment Ltd
Bristol
Hybrid
Mid
£650/day - £745/day
RECENTLY POSTED
aws
graphql
nodejs
java
nosql
python
+4
SC Cleared Data Integration Engineer
Bristol or London (2 days per week onsite)
Up to 745 per day (Umbrella, Inside IR35)
Must hold live and transferrable SC Clearance used within the last 12 months
About the Role
We’re looking for a highly skilled Software Engineer / Data Integration Specialist to join a mission-critical programme, ensuring data and services move seamlessly, securely, and efficiently across systems. This role blends backend software engineering with data integration expertise, offering the chance to work on high-impact projects within a collaborative, technically advanced environment.
Key Responsibilities
Integration Development - Design, build, and maintain integrations between internal systems and third-party platforms via APIs and related technologies.
Data Pipeline Engineering - Create scalable, reliable pipelines to ingest, transform, and deliver data across multiple environments.
Collaboration - Work closely with software engineers, DevOps, and product teams to translate integration requirements into effective solutions.
Troubleshooting & Optimisation - Resolve integration challenges including data mismatches, authentication issues, and performance bottlenecks.
Documentation - Produce clear documentation for integration workflows, processes, and architecture.
Monitoring & Maintenance - Implement robust logging, alerting, and performance monitoring for integrations.
Continuous Improvement - Champion enhancements to integration architectures and best practices.
Skills & Experience Required
Experience with workflow orchestration tools (e.g., Apache Airflow).
Proven track record in backend development (e.g., Node.js, Python, Java).
Strong knowledge of API design, integration methods (REST, Webhooks, GraphQL), and authentication protocols (OAuth2, JWT).
Experience with ETL/ELT tools and frameworks.
Solid database skills (SQL and/or NoSQL).
AWS cloud platform experience, particularly in integration services.
Strong debugging, problem-solving, and communication abilities.
Comfortable in agile environments and familiar with CI/CD and DevOps practices.
Understanding of data security, privacy, and compliance (e.g., GDPR).
Apply Now
Bring your software engineering and data integration expertise to a role where your work will make a measurable impact on secure, data-driven systems.
Insurance Systems Developer
Maxwell Bond
London
Hybrid
Mid
£400/day - £450/day
RECENTLY POSTED
TECH-AGNOSTIC ROLE
2-3 days a week in central London
12 month contract
Outside IR35
I’m seeking a skilled Polaris Developer to join my client on a 12-month contract. This role will involve overseeing the full development lifecycle, covering internal systems, software house changes, scheduled releases, new product launches, product changes, and fault resolution.
The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring the quality of system changes, mitigating risks, and supporting the wider commercial function in achieving strategic objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Review Business Requirement Documents and provide development estimates.
Analyse business needs to recommend appropriate development approaches, strategies, and conditions.
Take ownership of project/BAU planning, including preparation of development plans, managing conflicts with other activities, and updating plans throughout project lifecycles.
Ensure development build specifications align with business priorities and governance requirements.
Identify and document issues, ensuring thorough understanding, governance compliance, and resolution management.
Provide regular updates to stakeholders and management on project and BAU progress, escalating conflicts as needed.
Safeguard the integrity of development environments and data.
Document all development requirements, specifications, and variances in line with governance standards, maintaining a clear audit trail and library.
Skills & Experience
Strong working knowledge of host policy administration systems.
Hands-on experience with Polaris ProductWriter for commercial insurance products.
Familiarity with development and project methodologies.
Experience analysing insurance products.
Understanding of underwriting rules and complex pricing algorithms, with the ability to translate requirements into workable solutions.
If this sounds like you then please apply for more information and I will be in touch with suitable candidates!
3E Developer
Computer Futures
United Kingdom
Fully remote
Mid
£675/day - £725/day
RECENTLY POSTED
dot-net
dot-net-core
xslt
My customer, is highly successful LegalTech business that are going through a period of transformation. They now require a 3E Developer, to help them upgrade their current systems from version 2.8 to 3.1.
Role: 3E Developer
Project: System Upgrade
Key Skills:
Has worked on 3E 2.8 or above before
VB.Net Development Experience
.Net Framework, .Net Core or .Net 8
Understanding of finance business processes
Experience calling/interacting with SOAP services
Experience with workflow development
Desirable:
Has worked in the legal/finance sector
BizTalk Development Experience
Experience working in custom Development Frameworks/IDE’s
XSLT experience
Length: 3 Months
Rate: (Apply online only) a day (negotiable)
Location: 100% remote
SDS: Inside IR35
If interested, please send your current CV for immediate consideration.
Please click here to find out more about our Key Information Documents. Please note that the documents provided contain generic information. If we are successful in finding you an assignment, you will receive a Key Information Document which will be specific to the vendor set-up you have chosen and your placement.
To find out more about Computer Futures please visit (url removed)
Computer Futures, a trading division of SThree Partnership LLP is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy Registered office 8 Bishopsgate, London, EC2N 4BQ, United Kingdom Partnership Number OC(phone number removed) England and Wales
KDB Specialist/Application Developer
Pontoon
Multiple locations
Hybrid
Mid
Private salary
RECENTLY POSTED
TECH-AGNOSTIC ROLE
Job Title: KDB Specialist/Application Developer
Contract Length: 12 Months
Location: London (Hybrid working model)
Pay Rate: 800 to 1,200 per day (Umbrella)
About the Role:
We are seeking a talented KDB Specialist Developer to join our eFX Strategy & Engineering teams. In this role, you will help build and enhance our analytics framework in KDB+/q, ensuring the resiliency and scalability of our KDB+ estate. You will also be responsible for developing reporting dashboards for key stakeholders, leveraging data stored within KDB.
Key Responsibilities:
Collaborate with the eFX Strategy and Engineering teams to design and implement robust KDB+/q solutions.
Enhance the performance, reliability, and resilience of our KDB+ environment.
Build and maintain reporting dashboards for stakeholders using KDB data.
Support the analytics framework to meet evolving business needs.
Requirements:
Strong experience with KDB+/q development and analytics frameworks.
Previous exposure to eFX or financial markets is a plus.
Proven ability to design and implement efficient data solutions.
Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
Benefits:
Competitive daily rate ( 1,200 Umbrella)
12-month contract with potential for extension
Opportunity to work with a leading eFX team on high-impact projects
Please be advised if you haven’t heard from us within 48 hours then unfortunately your application has not been successful on this occasion, we may however keep your details on file for any suitable future vacancies and contact you accordingly.
Pontoon/Adecco is an employment consultancy. We put expertise, energy, and enthusiasm into improving everyone’s chance of being part of the workplace. We respect and appreciate people of all ethnicities, generations, religious beliefs, sexual orientations, gender identities, and more. We do this by showcasing their talents, skills, and unique experience in an inclusive environment that helps them thrive.
Senior Java Developer
Tec Partners
Leeds
In office
Senior
£600/day - £700/day
RECENTLY POSTED
java
mongodb
mockito
Lead Java Developer
Rate: Up to 700/day Inside IR35
Location: Leeds - 3 Days Onsite Per Week
Contract: 12 Months
About the Role
We’re looking for a Lead Java Developer to join a major national digital transformation programme. The successful candidate will help build and improve high-traffic citizen-facing services used by millions across the UK.
You’ll lead or mentor a team of Java developers, deliver robust, scalable solutions, and contribute to modernising a complex digital estate. This is a hands-on technical leadership role for someone who thrives in collaborative, Agile environments and wants their work to have a tangible impact on society.
Key Responsibilities
Lead or guide a team of Java developers on large-scale digital services.
Design, build, and enhance server-side applications and APIs for internal and external use.
Build and maintain automated test suites to support continuous deployment.
Contribute to scaling and improving high-traffic web platforms.
Provide 2nd-line support for applications and platforms, including occasional out-of-hours support.
Communicate technical concepts clearly to non-technical audiences.
Required Skills and Experience:
Strong recent experience with Java 21 or later.
Solid understanding of TDD, BDD, and Agile delivery.
Experience with microservices architecture and responsive web design.
Proven track record building APIs and automated test frameworks for continuous deployment.
Familiarity with Unix-like operating systems (Linux/Mac OS X).
Comfortable with collaborative development practices such as pair programming.
Desirable:
Experience with MongoDB, messaging tools (ActiveMQ/Kafka), and frameworks such as Jackson, JAX-RS, Mockito.
Knowledge of scaling high-traffic websites and managing large data sets.
Next Steps
If you’re interested in working on impactful, large-scale digital services, please apply with your CV. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted to discuss the role and interview process.
APEX Developer
First Recruitment Group
Leicester
In office
Mid
Private salary
apex
git
javascript
sql
salesforce
Job Summary:
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented APEX Developer to join our development team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, testing, and deploying applications using Oracle APEX (or Salesforce APEX, depending on context). You will work closely with business analysts and stakeholders to understand requirements and deliver scalable, efficient, and secure applications.
Key Responsibilities:
Design and develop web applications using Oracle Application Express (APEX) or Salesforce APEX.
Translate business requirements into functional solutions.
Maintain and enhance existing APEX applications.
Perform unit testing and support user acceptance testing (UAT).
Integrate APEX applications with external systems using APIs, web services, and data connectors.
Optimize application performance and ensure compliance with coding standards.
Troubleshoot and resolve issues in development, test, and production environments.
Provide technical documentation and user guides.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including DBAs, UI/UX designers, and project managers.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
Proven experience as an APEX Developer (Oracle APEX or Salesforce APEX).
Strong understanding of SQL, PL/SQL, and relational databases (preferably Oracle DB).
Experience with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and REST/SOAP APIs.
Familiarity with version control systems like Git.
Knowledge of application lifecycle management and agile methodologies.
Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
Oracle APEX certifications or Salesforce Platform Developer certifications.
Experience with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) or Salesforce Lightning components.
Understanding of security best practices in web application development.
Company information
At First Recruitment Group we understand just how important it is to secure the right people. That is why our Recruitment Consultants always take the time to understand requirements in detail and offer sound advice to both clients and candidates. We actively recruit at all levels and this is a superb opportunity for APEX Developer looking for new employment.
As part of putting people first, we strive to be an equal opportunities employer and we are always looking to increase the diversity of our workforce, working closely with our clients to ensure everyone is included.
Senior Software Developer
Unify Talent UK
United Kingdom
Fully remote
Senior
£550/day - £575/day
terraform
github
aws
spring-boot
kubernetes
kotlin
+4
Senior / Lead Software Developer
Full Stack - Kotlin - TypeScript
(Apply online only) per day, Outside IR35
3 Month rolling (long term)
Fully Remote
SC Clearance REQUIRED
Unify are proud to exclusively represent a highly respected Consultancy who urgently require the services of a Senior / Lead Full Stack Developer, on a contract basis, 3 months rolling, with long term scope.
We require SC Clearance for this project therefore you MUST have valid SC Clearance!
You’ll get the opportunity to join a project team working on a high-profile, high-impact, Government program!
Tech Stack:
Frontend:
Building UIs using Express.js and TypeScript
Using Gov department Design System and nunjucks
Integrating with the backend services
Backend:
Developing and maintaining Kotlin APIs ( using Spring Boot)
Integrating with internal and external APIs using REST or similar protocols
Experience with event driven architecture
Cloud & infrastructure:
Deploying and managing services in AWS (there is a managed platform team)
Writing infrastructure as code using Terraform
Implementing and maintaining CI/CD pipelines with GitHub Actions (or equivalent)
Using containerisation technologies, particularly Docker and Kubernetes
Engineering practices:
Strong focus on Test-Driven Development (TDD) and automated testing
Comfortable with pair programming, peer reviews, and knowledge sharing
Writing documented, maintainable code aligned with GDS standards
Experience working in agile, multidisciplinary teams and "working in the open
This is an urgent, long term Contract, fully remote, and Outside IR35 paying circa (Apply online only) per day.
Please apply by submitting your latest CV for immediate review by our talent team.
Thank You!
Full Stack Developer - PHP & Vue.JS
Vantage Consulting
Cradley Heath
Remote or hybrid
Mid
£350/day - £380/day
php
vue.js
Contract Full Stack Developer (PHP / Vue.js) - Automation Industry
Location: Remote / Hybrid (as required)
Duration: 3 months (initial)
Day Rate: 400- 450 per day
IR35: Outside
We’re working with an established automation company who are seeking a Full Stack Developer to support ongoing development of their internal management systems. These systems are bespoke to each client’s needs, with a strong emphasis on functionality, scalability, and user experience.
While this is a full stack role, the focus is on front-end development using Vue.js and PHP.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and maintain bespoke internal management systems.
Work closely with internal teams to understand client requirements and deliver tailored solutions.
Enhance and customise CRMs, e-commerce platforms, or bespoke business systems.
Ensure clean, maintainable code and best practices across projects.
Ideal Candidate
5+ years’ commercial web development experience, ideally in B2B environments.
Strong expertise with PHP and Vue.js (front-end bias).
Experience editing, customising, and integrating CRMs, e-commerce platforms, or business systems.
Strong understanding of full stack principles, but with a focus on delivering high-quality front-end solutions.
Able to work independently and manage workloads effectively in a contract environment.
This is an excellent opportunity for a developer who enjoys working on bespoke systems and delivering tangible solutions for clients.
Senior PHP Developer
Randstad Technologies Recruitment
London
Fully remote
Senior
£320/day - £350/day
php
laravel
aws
git
mysql
javascript
+4
PHP Architect / Lead Developer
Location: 100% Remote
Contract: 6-month contract (potential extension)
Start Date: ASAP
About the Role
We’re seeking an experienced PHP Architect/Lead Developer to join our agile, forward-thinking technology team. Our in-house platforms power everything from industry-leading e-learning solutions to highly integrated office logistics, all hosted on AWS.
In this role, you’ll help shape the architecture of new features, enhance existing systems, and mentor a talented team of developers. You’ll work with modern PHP frameworks-Symfony, Laravel, and in-house MVC solutions-while leveraging CI/CD practices and cloud-native designs.
Key Responsibilities
Design, develop, and maintain enterprise applications, e-learning portals, and web services using PHP.
Apply solid software design patterns and industry best practices.
Architect and optimize database systems (MySQL) and craft raw SQL queries for performance.
Translate complex business requirements into scalable, maintainable technical solutions.
Build and maintain client and management reporting tools.
Contribute to the evolution of developer tools, CI/CD pipelines, and AWS-based architectures.
Mentor and provide technical guidance to less experienced developers.
Support a global user base and ensure high-quality, well-documented code.
What We’re Looking For Required Skills & Experience
Strong PHP development expertise with object-oriented design and SOLID principles.
Proven experience with Symfony, Laravel, and custom MVC frameworks.
Solid architecture and design skills for complex, scalable applications.
Expertise in relational database schema design and optimization (MySQL).
Proficiency with Git workflows, LAMP stack, and REST API integrations.
Strong knowledge of HTML5, CSS (specificity, inheritance, positioning), JavaScript, AJAX, and DOM manipulation.
Experience with unit/functional testing and Docker containerization.
Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
Desirable
Enterprise/ERP application development.
Familiarity with AWS and cloud-native deployments.
Experience with Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD).
Strong front-end skills.
Why Join Us?
Cutting-edge environment: Work with a seasoned PHP team using modern CI/CD practices.
Collaborative culture: Friendly, knowledge-sharing environment that values new ideas and continuous learning.
Flexible remote contract: Deliver impactful work from anywhere.
How to Apply
Ready to shape the future of our platforms? Send your CV and a short cover letter highlighting relevant experience to (url removed) with the subject line “PHP Architect/Lead Developer - Contract”.
Randstad Technologies is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

Frequently asked questions

What types of contract Backend Engineer jobs are listed on Haystack?
Haystack features a wide range of contract Backend Engineer positions, including roles in startups, mid-sized companies, and large enterprises across various industries such as fintech, healthcare, and e-commerce.
How do I apply for a contract Backend Engineer job on Haystack?
To apply, simply create a profile on Haystack, upload your resume, and submit your application directly through the job listing. Some employers may require additional screening or coding tests.
Are the contract Backend Engineer jobs remote or on-site?
Haystack offers both remote and on-site contract Backend Engineer positions. You can filter job listings based on location preferences to find opportunities that match your availability.
What skills and technologies are commonly required for contract Backend Engineer roles?
Commonly required skills include proficiency in backend programming languages like Java, Python, Ruby, or Node.js, experience with databases such as MySQL or MongoDB, and familiarity with cloud platforms like AWS or Azure.
Can I negotiate contract terms such as duration and rate?
Yes, many contract Backend Engineer jobs on Haystack allow for negotiation on contract length, hourly rate, and other terms. Communication with the employer or recruiter during the interview process will help clarify these details.