At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to build a robust backend framework using Java or Kotlin and integrate with iconic destinations.
- Company: Booking.com, a leader in travel tech, focused on making global experiences accessible.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Exciting chance to work in a dynamic environment with potential for contract extension.
- Why this job: Be part of a groundbreaking team shaping the future of travel integrations with AI.
- Qualifications: Strong backend engineering skills in Java or Kotlin and a passion for automated testing.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Role & Vision
At Booking.com, our mission is to make it easier for everyone to experience the world. The newly formed Attractions Connectivity team in Manchester is embarking on a foundational mission: scaling and optimizing how we integrate third‑party providers (think onboarding iconic destinations like the Eiffel Tower or Sagrada Familia). Currently, onboarding can take up to 6 months. Our 5‑year vision is to reduce that to one week per integration. We are building a brand‑new, robust framework from scratch to achieve this—and we plan to lean hard on AI to automate and build these future integration flows. We are looking for 3 Contract Software Engineers to join at the absolute ground floor to help us stand up the repos, shape the foundations, and build a highly resilient framework.
Term: Initial 6‑month contract (with potential for review toward the end of the year)
Location: Manchester office (Strong preference for a hybrid model: 2 days a week in‑office to collaborate closely with the scaling permanent team)
Start Date: Targets for 1st July 2026
What You’ll Do
- Build Greenfield Frameworks: Design and implement robust backend connectivity services and APIs using a modern Java or Kotlin stack.
- Integrate with
Contract Software Engineer (Java/Kotlin) in Manchester employer: Booking.com
At Booking.com, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to make a real impact. As a Contract Software Engineer in our Manchester office, you'll have the unique opportunity to shape the future of attractions connectivity while enjoying a hybrid work model that promotes work-life balance. With a strong focus on professional growth and the integration of cutting-edge technologies like AI, we are committed to providing a rewarding environment where your contributions are valued and recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contract Software Engineer (Java/Kotlin) in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those at Booking.com or similar companies. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a GitHub repository showcasing your projects, especially anything related to Java or Kotlin. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do and how you tackle challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your backend engineering knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience with APIs and automated testing, as these are key for the role. Practice common coding challenges too!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team at Booking.com.
We think you need these skills to ace Contract Software Engineer (Java/Kotlin) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role. Highlight your experience with Java or Kotlin, and don’t forget to mention any automated testing you've done. We want to see how your skills align with our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for backend engineering and how you can contribute to building robust frameworks. Let us know why you're excited about joining our team in Manchester.
Showcase Your Projects:If you've worked on any relevant projects, especially those involving APIs or cloud technologies, make sure to include them. We love seeing real-world applications of your skills, so don’t hold back!
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 get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Booking.com
✨Know Your Tech Stack
Make sure you brush up on your Java and Kotlin skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss your experience with backend engineering and how you've tackled challenges in integrating third-party APIs. They’ll want to see that you can think on your feet and come up with creative solutions.
✨Showcase Your Testing Mindset
Since this role emphasises automated testing, be prepared to talk about your approach to writing tests. Share specific examples of how you've implemented automated test suites in past projects and how they contributed to code reliability. This will show that you’re not just a coder but a quality-focused engineer.
✨Familiarise Yourself with AI Integration
Given the focus on AI in this role, it’s a good idea to have some knowledge about how AI can enhance software development. If you’ve worked with AI tools or set up AI-friendly repositories, make sure to highlight those experiences. It’ll demonstrate that you’re aligned with their vision for the future.
✨Prepare Questions About the Team and Vision
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with questions about the Attractions Connectivity team and their long-term goals. Ask about their current challenges and how they envision the role of a Contract Software Engineer contributing to their mission. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
