Backend Engineer (JSON Schema Developer)

Job Title: Backend Engineer (JSON Schema Developer)

Job Type: Contract (Full-time or Part-time)

Location: Remote

Job Summary:

Join our customer's team as a Backend Engineer (JSON Schema Developer) and become a pivotal contributor in transforming complex raw documents into structured, actionable data. Leverage your expertise in data modeling and schema design to craft robust JSON extraction schemas from intricate PDFs, ensuring precise, scalable, and future-proof data solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Review and analyze complex PDF documents (25-150 pages) to identify and model key data points.
2. Design comprehensive JSON extraction schemas from scratch, determining optimal field extraction, data types, and logical structuring—including deep nesting and repetition patterns.
3. Embed field-level validation logic, such as sum requirements and null-testing, directly within JSON schemas.
4. Define and articulate API contracts, ensuring seamless integration and data flow across systems.
5. Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to clarify data requirements and refine schema design decisions.
6. Document field definitions, required vs. optional status, and provide clear descriptions to ensure understandability and maintainability.
7. Champion best practices in data architecture, driving consistency, scalability, and reusability in schema development.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

1. Proven experience in data modeling, database design, and schema development (ideally using JSON Schema).
2. Advanced proficiency in designing deeply nested JSON structures from blank pages.
3. Strong architectural thinking with the ability to analyze unstructured documents and translate them into well-organized information models.
4. Expertise in embedding validation, field typing, and logical expressions within JSON schemas.
5. Deep understanding of required vs. optional fields, type selection, and field-level documentation best practices.
6. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, able to clearly articulate complex technical decisions.
7. Track record of working independently in a distributed, remote environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Experience designing API contracts and collaborating on integration projects.
2. Background in extracting and structuring data from highly variable or unstructured documents.
3. Familiarity with data architecture and scalable information modeling in fast-paced environments.