Python Developer/Specialist

Role Overview

The Python Developer/Specialist is an integral member of the IT Development team at SOCAR Trading, tasked with creating, enhancing, and sustaining Python-based applications, automation scripts, and integrations vital for AI and data-related business initiatives. This role collaborates closely with business units and the Data Engineer to advance prototype code into dependable, scalable production tools, all while embracing AI-assisted programming techniques using tools such as Claude and Claude Code.

Core Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and maintain Python applications, scripts, and integrations that support AI, automation, and data operations.
• Create and sustain APIs and connectors integrating AI platforms, data pipelines, and systems like Dynamics 365 F&O, ION TriplePoint, and Azure services.
• Convert prototype developments made by non-specialists into efficient, maintainable production code.
• Apply software engineering standards including Git version control, automated testing, continuous integration/delivery, and code reviews via Azure DevOps.
• Engage with stakeholders to understand business needs and translate them into secure, scalable software solutions.
• Utilize AI coding tools daily for accelerating development stages such as debugging, refactoring, testing, and documentation.
• Ensure thorough code quality checks focusing on security and data governance before deployment.
• Share best practices and prompt engineering techniques related to AI development with the IT team.
• Provide ongoing maintenance and performance optimization for existing Python tools in production.
• Document software architecture, code, and deployment workflows thoroughly for future maintainability.
• Collaborate with Data Engineers to align Python tools with data pipelines and support the Applied AI Specialist in integrating AI models and APIs.
• Contribute to sprint planning, backlog grooming, and progress monitoring through Azure DevOps.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related disciplines.
• Desirable certifications include Python-related credentials and Microsoft Certified Azure Developer Associate.
• 3 to 5 years of professional experience in Python programming with solid hands-on application development and API delivery in production environments.
• Strong expertise in Python core libraries, especially for data manipulation and automation such as pandas and requests.
• Proficient in RESTful API design and integration, and SQL database management using SQL Server/T-SQL or similar.
• Familiarity with Git, automated/unit testing, debugging practices, and CI/CD pipelines, preferably using Azure DevOps.
• Experience or working knowledge of Azure cloud services, including Azure Functions and App Services, is an asset.
• Regular use of AI-assisted development platforms like Claude and Claude Code, with a keen sense for security and privacy in AI-generated outputs.
• Prior exposure to energy, trading, or financial services sectors and ERP/ETRM system integration is advantageous but not mandatory.
• Additional skills such as experience with React or other modern JavaScript frameworks and Agile methodologies are preferred.

Technical Frameworks and Tools

• Python with automation and data libraries (pandas, requests), and backend frameworks like FastAPI, Flask, or Django.
• Development and integration of REST APIs.
• Database technologies such as SQL Server and T-SQL.
• AI coding assistant tools for daily development support (Claude, Claude Code).

Professional Attributes and Soft Skills

• Excellent problem-solving aptitude and debugging skills.
• Commitment to delivering high-quality, precise, and maintainable code.
• Adaptability to rapidly learn new technologies and frameworks, including AI tools.
• Ability to adjust quickly to changing business priorities and provide responsive support to user requests.
• Strong communication skills facilitating clear translation of business requirements into technical implementations.