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
1️⃣ 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
2️⃣ 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
3️⃣ Swagger Stabilization
Make Swagger/OpenAPI the single source of truth
Fully document request/response schemas
Deprecate legacy routes properly
Ensure frontend/backend contract reliability
4️⃣ 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.
5️⃣ 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.