Software Engineer III – Ruby Specialist (1099 - Contractor)

Job Description: Software Engineer III – Ruby Specialist

About NextLink Labs

NextLink Labs is a rapidly growing technology firm focused on empowering businesses to build, scale, and secure robust software applications. We believe successful companies rely on technology that is both effective and secure, and we take pride in driving client success across various industries.

As a remote-first company, our diverse team operates collaboratively across the country, fostering a comfortable, inclusive work environment that supports professional growth and a healthy work-life balance.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer III specializing in Ruby to join our Custom Software Development consulting team as a 1099 contractor. In this role, you'll architect and develop scalable solutions, independently handle complex technical challenges, mentor junior developers, and actively contribute to client-facing interactions and strategic internal initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently design, develop, and maintain robust, secure Ruby-based software solutions.
• Troubleshoot complex technical issues and deliver innovative, scalable solutions.
• Assess emerging technologies, software engineering methodologies, and architectural patterns, providing strategic insights and recommendations.
• Mentor junior engineers in architecture, software development best practices, and client interaction skills.
• Collaborate with security teams to implement threat modeling and secure coding practices, including Static Application Security Testing (SAST) into early-stage workflows.
• Manage end-to-end software development projects, creating detailed project plans, timelines, resource allocations, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Communicate proactively with clients, build trusted relationships, identify client pain points, and deliver tailored software solutions.
• Engage with stakeholders, clearly communicating complex software concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Anticipate technical and security risks, proposing and executing timely resolutions to ensure project success.

Required Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience with Ruby on Rails.
• Demonstrable expertise in multiple technical domains, including cloud computing, API development, and distributed systems.
• Proficiency in secure API authentication, access control, encryption, and secure coding standards.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proven track record of managing projects independently and effectively communicating technical strategies to stakeholders.
• Strong experience in version control systems (Git), testing, and debugging practices.
• Understanding of software architecture best practices and scalability considerations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with React or equivalent front-end frameworks.
• Experience with DevOps tools such as GitLab, GitHub, Ansible, Terraform, AWS, Docker, and Kubernetes.

Why Join NextLink Labs

• Opportunity to work remotely with a collaborative, inclusive team.
• Engagement in diverse projects with strategic client impact.
• Growth and mentorship opportunities within an innovative, dynamic environment.

Join our dedicated team at NextLink Labs, where your expertise as a Ruby specialist will make a tangible impact on client success and internal excellence. Hourly rate: $65 USD.