Intermediate Software Engineer – Java, DevOps & AI in Cheadle

We are looking for an Intermediate Java Developer to join our engineering team. This role is suited to a proficient engineer who can deliver high-quality software, take ownership of features, and contribute to continuous improvement within their squad. You will work across Java development, DevOps practices, and emerging AI-driven approaches to support CDL’s products and platforms.

Why Join CDL

• Opportunity to work on enterprise‑scale, cloud‑native platforms
• Strong focus on engineering quality, automation, and modern practices
• Growing adoption of AI‑supported development approaches
• Clear and transparent career progression framework
• Collaborative environment across squads and technology communities

What You’ll Do

• Design, build, and maintain Java‑based applications and services
• Deliver well‑tested, secure and scalable solutions aligned to CDL standards
• Take ownership of features or components end‑to‑end
• Contribute to solution design and technical decisions
• Support and improve CI/CD pipelines and deployment processes
• Collaborate with Product and Platform teams
• Participate in team ceremonies and squad delivery
• Contribute to continuous improvement and adoption of AI tools

About You

Essential

• Strong Java enterprise development experience
• Experience with APIs and microservices
• Understanding of software engineering principles and best practices
• Exposure to DevOps / CI‑CD pipelines
• Experience working in an AI development environment

Desirable

• Experience with AWS (compute, networking, or serverless services)
• Cloud‑native development and distributed systems
• Docker / Kubernetes
• Infrastructure as Code
• Experience with AI‑assisted development tools
• Awareness of secure coding practices, application security, and cloud security principles

What We’re Looking For

• Ability to deliver independently and take ownership
• A collaborative team player who contributes positively to squad outcomes
• Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail
• Commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and learning
• Interest in modern engineering practices (DevOps & AI)

Level Expectations (Engineer 3)

• Delivers independently with minimal supervision
• Owns features or components within the squad
• Contributes to technical improvements and best practices
• Supports and collaborates with other engineers

What You’ll Get

The salary for the role of Intermediate Software Engineer pays up to £45,000 per annum, providing a fantastic opportunity for career progression through CDL’s clearly defined career framework.

Benefits

• Hybrid Working (2 days a week in the office – SK4 2HD)
• Flexible working
• 25 days holiday to start, increasing by 1 day per year of service up to 30 days
• Top employer for 10 consecutive years
• Excellent training and development platform
• Opportunities for career progression
• Health and Wellbeing Programme
• Life and health assurance
• Electric Vehicle Scheme
• Established Recognition Award System
• Parental benefits
• Diversity and Inclusion network
• Pension scheme
• Community projects and volunteer days
• Referral bonus
• On‑site free parking
• Open plan modern offices
• Quiet spaces available
• Shuttle bus to and from the station
• Subsidised restaurant
• Games room, pool and table‑tennis tables, and chill out zone
• Annual Hackathon & Deep Racer Events
• Regular social activities (summer BBQ, competitions, bowling, go‑karting, football games, winter party)
• Car wash, barber, yoga classes, boot camp and massage services on site
• Cycle to work scheme
• Shower and dry rooms

Diversity and Inclusion

CDL recognises that building a diverse workforce is critical to the success of our business. We strongly encourage applications from a diverse talent pool and welcome the opportunity to discuss flexibility requirements and workplace adjustments with all applicants.