Backend Software Engineer

At KingMakers, we're not just building products; we're redefining how millions of sports fans across Africa experience entertainment. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to deliver seamless, 24/7 digital sports and gaming experiences that bring people closer to the games they love, online and offline.

As a Mid-Level Backend Software Engineer, you'll join our iGaming domain (Virtuals Squad) and play a key role at the heart of our engineering team. You'll drive backend initiatives, building robust and scalable solutions, and contribute to system architecture, technical decision-making, and product innovation, ensuring our technology stack evolves efficiently to meet business needs.

We're looking for engineers who love to build, test, and optimize. If you thrive in a high-impact environment, enjoy working autonomously while collaborating with cross-functional teams, and are passionate about crafting elegant and maintainable software, we'd love to hear from you.

What you'll be doing:

Core Engineering

• Develop, test, and maintain high-quality, scalable backend services.
• Collaborate with backend engineers on design, approaches, and code reviews.
• Write optimized, secure code with strong focus on testing and reliability.
• Contribute to system design and architecture decisions.

Collaboration

• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including product managers and designers.
• Participate in planning sessions, providing technical input into the roadmap.
• Share knowledge, participate in code reviews, and promote best practices.

Ownership & Growth

• Take initiative in learning the domain and proactively contributing beyond assigned tasks.
• Drive continuous improvement in pipelines, system performance, and observability.
• Support and mentor peers, contributing to a culture of excellence.

Requirements

Technical Skills & Experience

• 3+ years of professional experience in software development.
• Proficiency in C# and .NET framework.
• Experience with relational databases (MS SQL Server) and NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Redis).
• Strong knowledge of microservices architecture and domain-driven design.
• Understanding of modern DevOps practices, including CI/CD pipelines and Infrastructure as Code (Terraform).
• Hands-on experience with cloud platforms (preferably Microsoft Azure).
• Familiarity with containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes, AKS).
• Experience with message queuing systems (RabbitMQ) and event streaming platforms (Kafka).
• Strong focus on code quality, testing methodologies, and software engineering best practices.
• Knowledge of performance optimization strategies, caching techniques, and observability tools (Grafana, APM solutions).
• Security-conscious approach to software development.

Nice to Have

• Experience in the iGaming or sports betting industry.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and compliance standards.
• Experience working in a hyper-growth startup environment.

How You Do It: Expectations to Fulfill the Role

At KingMakers, culture isn't just words on a wall, it's how we show up, work, and grow. Our CROWNS are six bold, actionable values that guide how we make decisions, collaborate, and raise the bar together.

We believe great talent deserves great rewards. That's why our competitive compensation packages go beyond salary, with benefits and perks designed to help you thrive wherever you are.

Customer First
We build with and for our customers. Whether internal or external, we care deeply about what drives them and always strive to deliver real, meaningful value.

Raise the Bar
We take initiative, take ownership, and never settle. We're not here to show off, we're here to make an impact, raise standards, and push for better every time.

Operate with Candor
We build trust through openness and honesty. We speak clearly, listen actively, and make space for others to be part of the conversation. Truth with kindness, always.

We Build Together
We collaborate across teams, support one another, and leave egos aside. We succeed as a team, lifting each other up and sharing the load.

No Hesitation, Never Reckless
We move boldly and responsibly. We take smart risks, speak up, and try new things, with the courage to own the outcome and the clarity to avoid chaos.

Speed & Iteration
We act fast, learn fast, and improve fast. We cut through the noise, take action, and adapt quickly. Progress beats perfection.

Benefits

At KingMakers, we know that great talent deserves great rewards. That's why our compensation packages are competitive, designed to reflect your skills, impact, and potential.

We go beyond just salary, our benefits are crafted to support you wherever you are and help you thrive both at work and in life:

What we offer:

• Flexible Work: Hybrid model , the freedom to balance office collaboration with remote focus.
• Medical Aid: An extra R3,000 contribution towards Discovery Medical, because your health matters.
• Retirement & Group Risk: Joint contributions to your Retirement Annuity (RA) and Group Risk Fund to invest in your future.
• Parking: Hassle-free, secure parking so you can start your day stress-free.
• Tech Equipment: Top-of-the-line laptop and tech gear to make your work seamless and productive.
• Team Activities : Regular events to build connections and foster collaboration.
• Office Perks : Free snacks, coffee, and a welcoming environment to keep you energized.
• Performance Bonuses : Discretionary rewards recognizing your contributions.

At KingMakers, we're committed to creating an environment where you can do your best work and be rewarded for it.