Lead Java Backend Developer

Lead Java Backend Developer

Location: Downtown Chicago, IL (Local only)

Hybrid: 2–3 days onsite per week (Lead & one Sr role)

Onsite: 5 days/week (one Senior role)

Remote interview but can ask for onsite

Java 11+, backend development with microservices & event-driven architecture, RESTful APIs, relational & NoSQL databases, Kafka/RabbitMQ/SQS, API Gateways (Apigee/AWS/Azure), CI/CD (Jenkins/GoCD/Azure DevOps), TDD/BDD (Selenium/Cucumber), and cloud platforms (AWS or Azure).

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain Java backend applications using Java 11 or higher

• Build and support microservices, event-driven, and MVC-based architectures

• Develop and consume well-defined RESTful APIs

• Work with relational and NoSQL databases

• Implement batch and/or stream processing solutions

• Integrate applications with message queues and streaming platforms

• Participate in TDD/BDD practices using automated testing frameworks

• Support application deployment using CI/CD pipelines

• Deploy and maintain applications in cloud environments (AWS or Azure)

• Collaborate with architects, product owners, and cross-functional teams

• (Lead role) Provide technical guidance, code reviews, and mentorship to team members

• Required Skills & Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience for Senior Java Developer

• 9+ years of experience for Lead Java Developer

• Strong expertise in Java 11 or higher

• Hands-on experience with:

• Microservices & event-driven architectures

• RESTful API design and development

• Relational & NoSQL databases

• Experience with message brokers / streaming tools (at least one):

• Kafka, RabbitMQ, AWS SQS/SNS, ActiveMQ, Kinesis

• Experience with API Gateways / API Management tools :

• Apigee Edge, AWS API Gateway, or Azure API Gateway

• Familiarity with API documentation and testing tools :

• Swagger, Assertible

• Hands-on experience with testing frameworks :

• Selenium, Cucumber

• Experience with CI/CD tools :

• Jenkins, GoCD, Azure DevOps

• Cloud experience with AWS or Azure

• Nice to Have

• Financial services or large enterprise experience

• Strong understanding of application security and performance optimization

• Prior experience working in hybrid or onsite enterprise environments