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- Tasks: Lead the design and development of scalable backend services using Java and microservices.
- Company: Join Amber Labs, a cutting-edge tech consultancy focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible work, private medical insurance, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic team while shaping the future of UK digital services.
- Qualifications: Strong backend development skills in Java and experience with microservices architecture.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Strong back-end focus. 12-month Fixed Term Contract (with a view to go permanent). Hybrid: one visit per week onsite in Manchester. SC Clearance: SC Clearance preferred, however, SC Eligibility accepted. Experience within UK public sector and or central government department(s).
At Amber Labs, we are a cutting‑edge UK and European technology consultancy that prioritises empowering autonomy, promoting experimentation, and facilitating rapid learning to provide exceptional value to our clients. Our teams consist of highly skilled engineers, designers, analysts, and consultants dedicated to building world‑class digital services for government and enterprise clients.
We are seeking a Lead Software Developer to play a key role within a large, cross-functional delivery squad. This is a hands-on leadership role that combines technical excellence with strong collaboration and alignment across engineering, QA, DevOps and product disciplines. The role is primarily backend-focused, leveraging Java and microservices architecture, with some awareness of frontend templating to support full-stack delivery.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead the design and development of scalable backend services
- Act as a technical authority within the squad, guiding design decisions
- Contribute hands-on to development while mentoring other engineers
- Collaborate closely with Product managers, QA engineers, and Analysts
- Ensure alignment with shared engineering standards and practices
- Strong experience with Microservices and distributed systems design
- Support delivery in fluid and evolving requirement environments
- Drive continuous improvement in Code quality, Development practices, and Team collaboration
- Backend Development (Primary): Strong expertise in Java (modern versions), deep experience with Spring Boot for building RESTful services, proven track record in designing and developing microservices architectures, strong understanding of API design and integration, service-to-service communication, resilience and fault tolerance.
- Front-End Awareness (Secondary): Basic to working knowledge of frontend templating, particularly Nunjucks, exposure to JavaScript or TypeScript, ability to contribute to UI templating where required, collaborate effectively with frontend specialists. Note: This is not a frontend role, but awareness is important for full-stack collaboration.
- Cloud & DevOps: Strong working knowledge of AWS, including compute, storage, and managed services. Understanding of Docker and containerisation strategies and CI/CD pipelines (e.g., GitLab). Ability to guide cloud-native design decisions and align teams on deployment and operational practices.
- Be part of a dynamic and innovative team, with opportunities for professional growth and development
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunity to shape and influence asset management strategy in a fast‑paced environment
- Join a rapidly expanding start‑up where personal growth is a part of our DNA
- Benefit from a flexible work environment focused on deliverable outcomes
- Receive private medical insurance
- 25 days of annual leave plus UK bank holidays
Here at Amber Labs, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace for all. We celebrate individuality and believe that different perspectives drive innovation. Every colleague is valued, respected, and supported to thrive.
What Happens Next?Our Talent Acquisition Team will be in touch to advise you on the next steps. We have a two‑stage interview process for most of our consultants. In certain cases, we may include a third and final stage: a conversation with the end client. This will only be considered if deemed necessary.
Apply Now and help shape the future of UK digital services with Amber Labs.
Lead Software Developer - FDS Squad in Manchester employer: Amber Labs
Contact Detail:
Amber Labs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Software Developer - FDS Squad in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the tech industry, especially those who work in public sector roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Brush up on your Java and microservices knowledge, and be ready to discuss your hands-on experience. Practising common interview questions can help you feel more confident when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your collaborative spirit! During interviews, highlight your experience working with cross-functional teams. Talk about how you’ve mentored others and contributed to team success – it’s all about that teamwork vibe!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our innovative team at Amber Labs.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Software Developer - FDS Squad in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead Software Developer role. Highlight your backend development experience, especially with Java and microservices. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your experience in the UK public sector can add value to our team. Keep it engaging and relevant!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your technical skills in your application. Mention your experience with AWS, Docker, and CI/CD pipelines. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their hands-on expertise!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from our Talent Acquisition Team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Amber Labs
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your Java and Spring Boot skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with microservices architecture and how you've tackled challenges in backend development. The more specific examples you can provide, the better!
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Software Developer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to guide and mentor others. Think of instances where you've led a project or helped a colleague overcome a technical hurdle. Highlight your collaborative approach and how you align teams towards common goals.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the UK public sector and central government departments. Being able to discuss how your work impacts these areas will show that you understand the context of your role and the importance of delivering high-quality digital services.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you'd handle evolving requirements or improve code quality. Think through some scenarios where you've had to adapt quickly or implement best practices in your previous roles. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and adaptability.