Team Lead Backend Developer (Node.js)

About the Role Are you a technical leader who loves staying close to the code while scaling high-performance engineering teams? We are looking for a Team Lead Backend Developer (Node.js) to spearhead our cross-functional development team in Lisbon. In this highly hands-on role, you will shape the architecture of a high-load fintech platform, drive technical excellence, and mentor a talented group of engineers building secure, real-time payment systems. About the Client Our partner is a leading payment gateway provider that operates a massive ecosystem of global brands. They simplify complex financial transactions through smart routing technology, real-time monitoring, and uncompromising SSL/PCI DSS Level 1 security. As their exclusive recruitment partner, Lionhires manages their full-cycle talent acquisition, connecting top-tier engineering talent directly with their core scaling teams. What You Will Do Lead & Mentor: Manage a cross-functional team of engineers, conducting 1:1s, periodic feedback sessions, performance evaluations, and tailored individual development plans. Drive Execution: Oversee team resource allocation, assign tasks, and balance workloads to ensure seamless, timely product releases. Stay Hands-On: Actively write, review, and optimize high-quality code, personally contributing to core product developments and feature enhancements. Architect for Scale: Lead the design and implementation of an in-house fintech platform, focusing on microservices, messaging systems, and high-load scalability. Integrate Financial Systems: Build and manage complex payment API integrations with banks, PSPs, and third-party financial services. Champion Agile Culture: Participate in and facilitate Scrum/Kanban ceremonies to ensure team alignment, transparency, and adherence to agile best practices. Tackle Technical Debt: Continuously improve platform quality by refactoring legacy code and optimizing system architecture for secure financial integrations. Document & Standardize: Partner with Engineering Managers to define new engineering guidelines and ensure thorough documentation of payment flows. What You Bring Educational Background: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical field. Proven Leadership: 8+ years of professional IT experience, including 3+ years explicitly leading or managing engineering teams. Fintech Expertise: 2+ years of experience working within fintech, banking, or financial systems (direct experience with real-money transactions is highly preferred). Backend Mastery: 3+ years of commercial experience with Node.js and a deep, strong proficiency in TypeScript. Tech Stack Proficiency: Hands-on experience working with RabbitMQ, Redis, MySQL, and MongoDB. API & Architecture Savvy: Expert knowledge of REST, GraphQL, and WebSockets alongside a strong track record of building microservices within Kubernetes environments. Communication: Advanced or fluent English communication skills, both written and verbal. What's in It for You Work-Life Balance: 24 days of non-business leave per year plus 6 additional paid sick days. Relocation Support: A comprehensive relocation package including travel, initial hotel accommodation (up to 2 weeks), and full visa support for you and your family. Wellness & Lifestyle: Private medical coverage (inpatient/outpatient, dental, maternity, and annual check-ups), plus a 200 EUR net monthly transport allowance. Fitness Benefits: Urban Sport membership (50+ activities across Europe) and partial compensation for tennis and paddle lessons. Growth & Learning: Dedicated budget for language classes (English/Portuguese) and professional development opportunities. Relocation Support: A comprehensive relocation package including travel, initial hotel accommodation (up to 2 weeks), and full visa support for you and your family. Community: Vibrant company culture with regular teambuilding activities and challenging, meaningful work.