Lead Software Developer
Role details
Job location
Tech stack
Job description
We are seeking a Lead Backend Developer with strong expertise in Java and Spring Boot to drive the design and delivery of scalable, secure, and high-performing backend systems. This role involves leading engineering teams, making architectural decisions, and ensuring best practices across development lifecycle. Experience working in standards-driven environments, including exposure to GDS-aligned projects, is valuable., * Lead the design and development of backend systems using Java (8/11/17+) and Spring Boot
- Define and implement scalable microservices architecture
- Own technical design, architecture, and system integrations
- Guide and mentor a team of backend developers
- Collaborate with product managers, architects, DevOps, and stakeholders
- Ensure adherence to coding standards, security practices, and performance benchmarks
- Drive CI/CD, automation, and DevOps best practices
- Review code, enforce quality standards, and manage technical debt
- Participate in hiring, onboarding, and team capability building
- Ensure solutions align with organizational and regulatory standards where applicable
Requirements
Do you have experience in Terraform?, * Strong expertise in Java and Spring Boot ecosystem
- Proven experience in technical leadership or team lead role
- Deep understanding of microservices, distributed systems, and system design
- Experience designing and building RESTful APIs at scale
- Hands-on experience with:
- Hibernate / JPA
- Messaging systems (Kafka, RabbitMQ)
- Experience with cloud platforms (AWS / Azure / GCP)
- Strong knowledge of Docker, Kubernetes, and container orchestration
- Expertise in database design (SQL & NoSQL)
- Strong understanding of security, scalability, and performance optimization
- Experience with Agile/Scrum and modern development practices, * Experience in large-scale digital platforms or regulated environments (including exposure to GDS-aligned delivery standards)
- Familiarity with DevOps tools and Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, etc.)
- Strong understanding of system observability (logging, monitoring, tracing)
- Relevant certifications in Java, cloud, or architecture
Soft Skills
- Strong leadership and decision-making abilities
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management
- Ability to drive technical vision and influence teams
- Problem-solving mindset with attention to detail
Benefits & conditions
Strong focus on work-life balance with a flexible hybrid model (3 days onsite) * Be part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary agile environment alongside civil servants and industry experts Based in Swansea, South Wales - three days per week on-site