Senior Backend Engineer (Python / AI Search) in Portland, Oregon - #71143 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 71143

Senior Backend Engineer (Python / AI Search)
Our client is seeking a Senior Backend Engineer (Python / AI Search) to help design and build the backend systems that power an intelligent, AI-driven search experience. This role focuses on developing scalable APIs and core retrieval logic that connect modern web applications with advanced machine learning services. The ideal candidate is comfortable operating at the intersection of backend engineering and applied AI, translating complex concepts into reliable, production-ready solutions.

This role is fully remote.

Senior Backend Engineer (Python / AI Search) Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain robust backend services that support an AI-powered search platform.
• Develop RESTful APIs that reliably serve frontend applications and downstream services.
• Implement retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) workflows, including content ingestion, chunking, indexing, and retrieval.
• Integrate with cloud-based AI services to generate and manage embeddings for vector search use cases.
• Optimize backend systems for performance, scalability, and accuracy across both traditional web traffic and AI workloads.
• Collaborate closely with technical leadership and cross-functional partners to translate architectural direction into executable code.
• Troubleshoot, test, and refine backend workflows to ensure stability and maintainability.

Senior Backend Engineer (Python / AI Search) Qualifications

• Strong professional experience building backend systems using Python.
• Hands-on experience working with vector data, embeddings, and similarity search concepts.
• Familiarity with retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) or comparable AI-driven data retrieval patterns.
• Experience integrating cloud-based machine learning or AI platforms into production applications.
• Solid understanding of API design, data pipelines, and backend performance optimization.
• Ability to take high-level technical requirements and deliver well-structured, production-ready solutions.
• Comfortable working within cloud environments and modern backend architectures.

Compensation: (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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