Search Senior Python Developer

We are looking for an experienced Python / Django (Django REST Framework) backend developer to take ownership of a structured API refactor and production stabilization project for a social platform before launch.

This is not a greenfield project.

The backend exists and works partially, but requires architectural alignment and stabilization before production release.

Project Stack

Python 3.x

Django

Django REST Framework

PostgreSQL

Docker

Swagger / OpenAPI

Redis

WebSockets (notifications / messaging)

Mission Overview

The platform is a feature-rich community system including :

Messaging (DM + groups)

Communities

Events

Media gallery

Notifications

Subscriptions / payments

A refactor has already started to introduce a cleaner V2 API structure.

The mission now is to complete the backend realignment and ensure production readiness.

Scope of Work

1️ API Alignment & Endpoint Stabilization

Create alias endpoints to avoid breaking changes

Harmonize naming inconsistencies (e.g.,

• _id fields vs raw FK fields)

Resolve documented mismatches between frontend usage and backend structure

Implement missing endpoints required by the MVP

2️ Serializer & Contract Normalization

Normalize inconsistent field naming (e.g., user_id vs user_account_id)

Ensure consistent response formats

Implement input validation best practices

Reduce implicit logic spread across the system

3️ Swagger Stabilization

Make Swagger / OpenAPI the single source of truth

Fully document request / response schemas

Deprecate legacy routes properly

Ensure frontend / backend contract reliability

4️ Structural Cleanup (Non-rewrite)

Modularize views by domain (users, messaging, events, gallery, etc.)

Remove unused legacy code

Improve maintainability and readability

Ensure Docker reproducibility

This is NOT a full rewrite.

It is a professional stabilization and alignment mission.

5️ Production Hardening

Basic test coverage introduction (at least critical endpoints)

Validation of DB constraints (unique, integrity)

Regression prevention

Pre-production stabilization

We are open to structured milestone-based delivery.

Ideal Profile

5+ years Django / DRF experience

Strong API design experience

Comfortable working in existing codebases

Experience with API versioning

Clean architecture mindset

Production deployment experience

Comfortable reading and refactoring monolithic code

Bonus :

Experience with WebSockets

Experience with social or community platforms

Important

We are looking for : Ownership

Clarity

Transparency

Structured communication

This is a strategic mission before launch.

Stability and reliability are more important than speed.