Principal Full Stack Engineer

Location: UK (Flexible Hybrid – Office & Home, Some Travel Required)

Reports to: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Employment Type: Full-time

About the Company

We are supporting a high-growth, mission-driven client that has recently secured funding and is building a next-generation digital platform focused on social learning, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration. Their goal is to empower communities and organisations to co-create real-world solutions through technology and scalable systems.

Role Overview

As Principal Full Stack Engineer, you will play a critical role in shaping, building, and scaling the platform. This is a hands-on leadership position where you’ll drive technical excellence, mentor other developers, and work across the stack to deliver high-quality, secure, and scalable software.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a team of developers and contribute actively to the codebase using Agile methodologies
• Build and maintain scalable full stack applications using React, Node.js, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, and Directus
• Integrate real-time messaging tools such as Matrix/Synapse
• Design and oversee deployment pipelines and cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure, or GCP)
• Conduct code reviews, implement best practices, and ensure high engineering standards
• Collaborate with product, design, and executive teams to align tech output with business strategy
• Maintain secure APIs and optimise application performance
• Document architecture and key systems for scalability and handover

Requirements

Essential:

• Deep expertise in JavaScript/TypeScript, React, Node.js
• Experience with PostgreSQL, MongoDB, and RESTful/GraphQL APIs
• Familiarity with Directus or similar headless CMS platforms
• Experience in leading engineering teams or projects
• Strong command of DevOps tools, CI/CD pipelines, Docker, and Git
• Proficient in managing scalable, secure cloud infrastructure

Desirable:

• Knowledge of Matrix/Synapse, WebSockets, or real-time communications
• Arabic language skills
• Experience with payment systems, monetisation, or AI-driven recommendations
• Strong understanding of authentication and data privacy best practices

Key Competencies

• Hands-on technical leadership
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Collaborative communication across technical and non-technical teams
• Ownership mindset and drive for high-impact delivery

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Flexible working environment
• Opportunity to lead core product development at a critical growth stage
• Work that drives meaningful, real-world impact