Tech Blog
Behind the code: innovative minds, seamless rides
What does a backend developer do at a ride-hailing tech company? Burak Aykan Ürer, Backend Team Lead at eCabs Technologies, takes us behind the code.
What does a backend developer do in your team?
At eCabs, I design, build and maintain our server-side logic and databases. I write clean, efficient and reusable code that keeps the platform running smoothly.
My day-to-day work includes:
- collaborating with other teams
- code reviews and mentoring
- improving performance, scalability and security
- troubleshooting issues
- keeping up with industry trends
How does your team support the eCabs mission?
Our work is central to the eCabs mission. We look after the backend infrastructure and make sure it is robust and in line with company goals.
We deliver high-quality, scalable solutions that give users a smooth experience. Our focus on code quality and performance sets us up for long-term growth.
Which project are you most proud of?
Our multi-tenancy transition. At first, our platform only ran in Malta. This project was a big step in our expansion plans.
It let us take our technology to Greece and Romania, and opened many new possibilities.
It was not easy. Each city partner needed secure, seamless access to its own data and services. At the same time, performance and reliability had to stay high in every region.
How did you solve those challenges?
We started with a full review of our existing infrastructure. That shaped our plan, which included:
- an almost complete redesign of our backend architecture
- optimised database schemas
- strong access controls
- rigorous testing to prove the system was scalable and secure
The transition expanded our reach and set us up for growth in new markets. It shows what our team can achieve when facing complex challenges.
What is in your backend tech stack?
Our tech stack is built for efficiency, scalability and reliability:
- Java 8 for legacy services, keeping existing systems stable
- Java 17 for newer services, using its modern features
- Spring Boot for fast development and easy integration
- Quarkus for lightweight, reactive, high-performance apps
- Postgres as our main, reliable database
- MongoDB for specialised data needs
- RabbitMQ and pub/sub for messaging and real-time updates
- Kubernetes for container orchestration
- Google Cloud Platform (GCP) for secure, high-performance hosting
It is a blend of proven tools and newer technology. This lets us run a high-performance platform and adapt as standards and user needs change.
How do cloud-native architecture and microservices help you scale?
Scalability is central to our mobility platform. With cloud-native architecture and microservices, we can scale each component on its own, based on demand.
Auto-scaling and horizontal scaling handle spikes in user activity. Testing and load balancing fine-tune performance. And our team keeps exploring new tech to scale even better.
Our development process relies on strong collaboration. I work closely with product managers, designers, and frontend and mobile developers, so we all understand the project goals. Stand-ups and design reviews keep us aligned.
With frontend and mobile developers, we integrate our work and troubleshoot together. Knowledge sharing and cross-training make the whole team stronger.
How do you keep up with new technology?
Continuous learning is essential in software development. Standing still is not an option.
Recent shifts, such as serverless architecture and the wide adoption of Kubernetes, have changed how we build and deploy. Adapting quickly keeps our solutions cutting-edge.
Our development process thrives on effective collaboration. Working closely with product managers, designers, frontend developers and mobile developers, I ensure a clear understanding of project goals.
eCabs Technologies Backend Team Lead Burak Aykan Ürer
Microservices help us respond fast to changing demands. A strong focus on observability and security protects reliability and data integrity.
Ride-hailing is fast-paced and competitive. To stay innovative and agile, we:
- ask customers for feedback
- encourage a culture of experimentation
- use agile methods to adapt quickly
- watch industry trends and invest in learning
This keeps us competitive and responsive to our customers.
What advice would you give aspiring backend developers?
If you want to become a backend developer in the mobility industry, focus on these areas:
- Core backend technologies. They are the foundation of your skills.
- Cloud platforms like AWS or Google Cloud. They are key to building scalable, reliable infrastructure.
- Microservices architecture. It brings flexibility and scale to complex systems.
- APIs. They are a cornerstone of mobility services, so learn to design and work with them well.
- Data security and privacy. User data is sensitive, so understand encryption and privacy rules.
- Continuous learning. Tech keeps changing, so stay curious and open to new tools.
Combine technical skill, problem-solving and a passion for learning, and you will be well placed to succeed.
Interested in joining the team? See our careers page for open roles in Malta.
By Burak Aykan Ürer, eCabs Technologies Backend Team Lead
