Senior Software Developer (Java, Node) || Must have UK Government experience in Manchester
Senior Software Developer (Java, Node) || Must have UK Government experience

Senior Software Developer (Java, Node) || Must have UK Government experience in Manchester

Manchester Full-Time 55000 - 65000 ÂŁ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Amber Labs

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and develop secure, scalable applications using Node.js and Java.
  • Company: Join Amber Labs, a cutting-edge tech consultancy with a collaborative culture.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible work, private medical insurance, and 25 days annual leave.
  • Other info: Dynamic environment with clear opportunities for career advancement.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on high-profile government projects while growing your skills.
  • Qualifications: Experience in software development, especially with Node.js and UK government projects.

The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 ÂŁ per year.

Senior Software Developer Remote with ad-hoc travel to Manchester. Experience within UK central government required.

The Company

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 company culture is centred around collaboration, where all colleagues, regardless of their role, work together to minimise risk and shorten delivery times. Our team consists of highly skilled cross‑functional consultants, analysts, and support staff.

About the Role

We’re looking for a Senior Software Developer with strong expertise in Node.js (preferably), alongside Java or JavaScript, to join our growing team. To be considered for this role, candidates must:

  • Be eligible for BPSS clearance.
  • Have proven experience delivering projects within UK central government.

You will play a key role in designing, developing, and deploying secure, scalable, and user‑focused applications. This is a hands‑on role where you’ll work across both frontend and backend technologies, build services and APIs, and contribute to high‑impact government programmes.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and maintain scalable applications using Node.js (primary), plus Java and/or JavaScript.
  • Build and integrate REST APIs to support digital services.
  • Work with event‑driven architectures using Kafka and AWS SQS.
  • Implement infrastructure as code and automated deployments using Terraform.
  • Contribute to the design and delivery of microservices in containerised environments (Docker, AWS ECS).
  • Implement authentication and identity management with AWS Cognito.
  • Support and maintain CI/CD pipelines in GitLab.
  • Collaborate with designers, product owners, and engineers to deliver high‑quality outcomes.
  • Ensure clean, maintainable, and secure code through testing and best practices.
  • Share knowledge and mentor junior developers where needed.

Key Skills & Experience

  • Proven experience as a Senior Software Developer in complex environments.
  • Strong expertise in Node.js (essential); Java and/or JavaScript also valuable.
  • Hands‑on experience designing and consuming REST APIs.
  • Familiarity with event‑driven systems (Kafka, SQS).
  • Strong understanding of microservices architecture.
  • Proficiency with Docker and containerisation.
  • Experience with AWS services (ECS, SQS, Cognito).
  • Infrastructure as Code with Terraform.
  • Experience with GitLab pipelines / CI/CD.
  • Prior experience working on UK central government projects (essential).
  • Excellent communication skills with a collaborative, delivery‑focused mindset.

Clearance Requirement

Must be eligible for BPSS clearance. At this time, we are unable to consider candidates who require visa sponsorship.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary and performance‑based bonus structure.
  • Join a rapidly expanding consultancy where personal growth is part of our DNA.
  • Flexible work environment focused on deliverable outcomes.
  • Private medical insurance through Aviva.
  • Company pension plan through Nest.
  • 25 days of annual leave plus UK bank holidays.
  • Access to Perkbox, a global employee rewards platform.
  • Generous employee referral programme.
  • Highly collaborative and collegial environment with clear opportunities for career advancement.
  • Choice of device (PC or Mac).

Diversity & Inclusion

At Amber Labs, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace for all. We value the unique experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds of our employees and are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and supported.

Senior Software Developer (Java, Node) || Must have UK Government experience in Manchester employer: Amber Labs

Amber Labs is an exceptional employer that champions a culture of collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal place for Senior Software Developers looking to make a meaningful impact within the UK central government sector. With a flexible work environment, competitive salary, and a strong focus on personal growth, employees are empowered to thrive while contributing to high-impact projects. The company also prioritises diversity and inclusion, ensuring that every team member feels valued and supported in their professional journey.
Amber Labs

Contact Detail:

Amber Labs Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Software Developer (Java, Node) || Must have UK Government experience in Manchester

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the tech industry, especially those with experience in UK government projects. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.

✨Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best work, especially projects related to Node.js and Java. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can do and set you apart from the crowd.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. Practice common interview questions and be ready to discuss your experience with UK central government projects. Confidence is key!

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are excited about joining our team. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in working with us at Amber Labs.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Software Developer (Java, Node) || Must have UK Government experience in Manchester

Node.js
Java
JavaScript
REST APIs
Kafka
AWS SQS
Infrastructure as Code
Terraform
Microservices Architecture
Docker
AWS Services
GitLab CI/CD
Communication Skills
Collaboration

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with UK central government projects. We want to see how your skills in Node.js, Java, and JavaScript shine through in relevant contexts.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past work, especially those that align with our focus on collaboration and rapid learning.

Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Include details about your experience with REST APIs, microservices, and tools like Docker and Terraform. We love seeing practical applications of your expertise.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Amber Labs!

How to prepare for a job interview at Amber Labs

✨Know Your Government Experience

Make sure you can clearly articulate your experience working within UK central government. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've contributed to, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This will show that you understand the unique environment and requirements of government work.

✨Showcase Your Technical Skills

Prepare to demonstrate your expertise in Node.js, Java, and JavaScript. Bring examples of your previous work, such as code snippets or project summaries, that highlight your ability to design and develop scalable applications. Being hands-on with your skills will impress the interviewers.

✨Understand the Company Culture

Amber Labs values collaboration and experimentation. Familiarise yourself with their culture and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to a team-oriented environment. Share examples of how you've worked collaboratively in the past and how you approach problem-solving in a team setting.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect technical questions related to microservices architecture, REST APIs, and CI/CD pipelines. Brush up on your knowledge of Docker, AWS services, and Terraform. Practising common interview questions in these areas will help you feel more confident and ready to tackle any technical challenges during the interview.

Senior Software Developer (Java, Node) || Must have UK Government experience in Manchester
Amber Labs
Location: Manchester

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