Backend Wagtail Engineer in Portland, Oregon - #71393 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 71393

Backend Wagtail Engineer
Our client is seeking a highly experienced Backend Wagtail Engineer to lead the architecture and ongoing evolution of a sophisticated, multi-site content management platform. This role is ideal for a senior backend engineer who is deeply fluent in Wagtail and Django, comfortable owning complex CMS architecture decisions, and excited to collaborate with frontend and DevOps partners to deliver scalable, modern web experiences. The ideal candidate also brings a forward-looking mindset, with hands-on experience integrating AI-driven capabilities into production web applications.

This role is fully remote.

Backend Wagtail Engineer Responsibilities

• Own the backend architecture and technical direction of a complex, multi-site Wagtail CMS environment.
• Customize and extend Wagtail core functionality, including admin interfaces, page models, rendering logic, and publishing workflows.
• Partner closely with frontend engineers to enable advanced components such as custom Blocks, StreamField configurations, and reusable templates.
• Design, build, and maintain robust backend services using Python and Django to support content-driven and user-facing experiences.
• Implement and support cloud-native infrastructure and deployment workflows in a Google Cloud Platform environment, with collaboration across DevOps functions.
• Lead or contribute to the integration of artificial intelligence features, such as content automation, enhanced search, or intelligent user experiences.
• Explore and implement retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) patterns or large language model integrations where they add meaningful product value.
• Ensure backend systems are performant, secure, maintainable, and well-documented across multiple sites and stakeholders.

Backend Wagtail Engineer Qualifications

• Extensive hands-on experience with Wagtail CMS, including deep knowledge of its internals and advanced customization patterns.
• Strong proficiency in Python and Django, with a proven ability to architect and maintain complex backend systems.
• Experience designing and supporting multi-site or large-scale CMS platforms in production environments.
• Demonstrated experience working in cloud environments, preferably Google Cloud Platform, with solid DevOps fundamentals.
• Familiarity with relational databases such as PostgreSQL and best practices for data modeling and performance.
• Experience integrating AI or LLM-based capabilities into web applications, including exposure to platforms such as Vertex AI or similar services.
• Understanding of modern AI concepts such as retrieval-augmented generation and their application in user-facing systems.
• Ability to collaborate cross-functionally with frontend, infrastructure, and product teams in a fast-moving environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills, architectural judgment, and a proactive approach to technical owners

Compensation:$55-$65/hr. (DOE)

VanderHouwen Contractors Enjoy Exceptional Benefit Perks!
As an eligible contract employee with VanderHouwen, you'll have access to a full suite of benefits designed with your well-being in mind. Our comprehensive package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, and a matching 401(k) to help secure your future.

Meet VanderHouwen
What kind of recruiter do you see yourself working with? One who prioritizes your best interest, no matter what? VanderHouwen does, and we're in it for the long game! Our recruiters focus on YOU, building meaningful, long-term relationships while developing a deep understanding of companies' staffing needs and workplace cultures. This approach helps us find an ideal job match that aligns with your unique career aspirations and goals.

VanderHouwen is an award-winning, Women & Diversity-Owned, WBENC certified professional staffing firm. Founded in 1987, VanderHouwen places experienced professionals across the nation! Our recruitment teams specialize in either Technology and IT, Engineering, Human Resources, or Accounting and Finance career markets. Partner with us to land your next exciting career!

VanderHouwen is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. VanderHouwen does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal civil rights laws.

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