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Backend Technical Lead (AI Integration Focus)

K

KODA Kollectiv

30 - 45K PHP
Full-time
A. S. Fortuna Street, corner Herces Drive, Mandaue, 6014, Philippines
LaravelNode.jsNestJSOpenAIClaude

Job Title: Backend Technical Lead (AI Integration Focus)

Salary: Php30,000-45,000

Work Setup: On-site

Employment Type: Full-time


About the Role:

We are looking for a Backend Technical Lead who can take full ownership of our backend systems while driving AI integration across our web and mobile applications. This role is both strategic and hands-on. You will lead backend development, guide the team, and ensure we are building scalable, reliable, and AI-enhanced products. You will play a key role in bridging traditional backend engineering with practical AI applications.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Own and oversee backend architecture across projects
  • Lead, mentor, and review the work of backend developers
  • Design and maintain scalable APIs, databases, and system integrations
  • Drive integration of AI features such as:
  • Chatbots and AI assistants
  • AI-powered search and recommendation systems
  • Content generation and automation tools
  • Collaborate closely with frontend, QA, and product teams for end-to-end delivery
  • Optimize system performance, security, and reliability
  • Identify and implement opportunities to use AI in both product features and internal workflows
  • Establish best practices for backend development and AI usage (e.g., prompts, data handling)


Requirements:

  • Strong backend development experience (Laravel, Node.js, NestJS)
  • Proven experience in a technical leadership role (leading and mentoring a team)
  • Solid experience with AWS deployment and infrastructure
  • Deep understanding of API design, system architecture, and database design
  • Experience integrating third-party APIs and services
  • Strong grasp of scalability, performance, and security best practices
  • Good communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally
  • Cebu-based or willing to relocate

 

AI Experience:

  • Experience integrating AI APIs (e.g., OpenAI, Claude, or similar)
  • Ability to structure prompts and handle AI responses effectively
  • Understanding of embeddings, context handling, and limitations of AI systems
  • Experience building AI-powered features in real applications is a strong advantage


Nice to Have (Optional):

  • Experience with Ruby on Rails
  • Familiarity with vector databases (e.g., Pinecone, pgvector)
  • Experience with automation tools (e.g., Make.com)
  • Exposure to frontend technologies (Flutter, Next.js)
  • Experience with monitoring/logging tools (e.g., Sentry)


What You Can Expect:

  • Leadership Impact: Take on a key role influencing technical direction and project decisions.
  • AI-Driven Work: Build and enhance real-world applications powered by AI.
  • Collaborative Environment: Work with a team that values execution, ownership, and results.
  • Fast-Paced Execution: Enjoy the flexibility to implement ideas and drive solutions quickly.
  • Career Growth: Advance into a core technical leadership position as you grow with the team.


Note:

This role focuses on applied AI engineering. Deep machine learning or model training experience is not required.