Backend Engineer, Contract

Overview of 66degrees 66degrees is an end-to-end AI transformation partner that guides enterprises from complex business challenges to clear, quantifiable outcomes. Our company is the culmination of several successful firms, each a leader in its own right in cloud, artificial intelligence, and data. This convergence of talent and expertise is how we help businesses reach their own "inflection point," where chaotic data becomes a strategic asset, complexity becomes clarity, and AI becomes an engine for growth. Our ultimate vision is to be the catalyst for a future where every business operates as an intelligent enterprise, with autonomous systems unlocking human potential. At 66degrees, we believe in thriving through challenges and winning together. These values not only guide us in achieving our goals as a company but also for our people. We are dedicated to creating a significant impact for our employees by fostering a culture that sparks innovation and supports professional and personal growth along the way. Overview of 66degrees 66degrees is a leading consulting and professional services company specializing in developing AI-focused, data-led solutions leveraging the latest advancements in cloud technology. With our unmatched engineering capabilities and vast industry experience, we help the world's leading brands transform their business challenges into opportunities and shape the future of work. Overview of Role We’re seeking a Backend Engineer (Java/Kotlin) for a 90-day contractual engagement to support ongoing backend integrations and data-driven application enhancements. You’ll work closely with product and client teams, contributing to integration, optimization, and troubleshooting of backend systems in a fast-paced retail technology environment. Responsibilities Design, develop, and maintain backend services and integrations using Java or Kotlin (strong Kotlin preferred). Work extensively with complex SQL queries, stored procedures, and database structures to ensure efficient data flow between applications and databases. Support and enhance SOAP-based APIs that form part of critical integration layers. Analyze, debug, and optimize existing backend logic for performance and scalability. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration, testing, and deployment. Communicate effectively with client stakeholders, ensuring transparency, clarity, and timely delivery. Qualifications 5–9 years of professional experience in backend engineering. Expertise in Java or Kotlin (proficiency in Kotlin preferred). Advanced SQL and database querying skills — capable of reading and debugging dense SQL code. Hands-on experience with SOAP-based APIs and related integration frameworks. Solid understanding of data flow, database architecture, and backend application performance. Excellent client management and communication skills. Ability to work independently in a distributed, remote setup (EST or CST hours). Immediate availability (project already underway). 66degrees is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status or other legally protected class. 66degrees is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, national origin, age, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status or other legally protected class.