Senior Java Backend Engineer - Leeds-Based

Senior Java Backend Engineer - Leeds-Based

Leeds Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join Rockstar Games to develop innovative backend solutions for world-class entertainment projects.
  • Company: Rockstar Games, a leader in the gaming industry, based in Leeds.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment with global teams and exciting career advancement.
  • Why this job: Be part of a creative team shaping the future of gaming technology.
  • Qualifications: 5+ years in Java backend development with strong technical skills.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

At Rockstar Games, we create world‑class entertainment experiences. By joining our team, you will contribute as Senior Software Engineer (Java) to some of the most rewarding, large‑scale creative projects in the entertainment medium. We foster an inclusive, highly motivated environment where you can learn, innovate, and collaborate with some of the most talented professionals in the industry. We are currently seeking a passionate, hands‑on Senior Software Engineer to join our unique game development studio located in the heart of Leeds, England.

The Rockstar Games Information Systems team designs, builds, and maintains critical production software tools utilized across all game development disciplines globally. The applications we build are essential to supporting the creation of all Rockstar Games projects. Our portfolio ranges from task management software and defect trackers with games console integration to distributed video recording systems and advanced reporting/analytics applications. In this role, you will be deeply involved in hands‑on development, architectural design, and cross‑studio collaboration to advance our internal ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design & Implementation: Architect and develop robust backend solutions to meet the fast‑paced challenges of global game development.
  • Technical Leadership: Contribute to the team’s software design guidelines, coding standards, and architectural blueprints.
  • Global Collaboration: Partner and collaborate with other Rockstar technology teams across our worldwide studios.
  • Continuous Innovation: Develop a deep understanding of existing systems while researching and adopting new technologies to modernise our applications.
Technical Requirements
  • Experience: 5+ years of professional experience in enterprise Java backend development.
  • Core Java: Strong command of the Java language, spanning from low‑level optimisation to high‑level system architecture.
  • Frameworks: Deep expertise within the Spring Boot ecosystem and data persistence frameworks (JPA/Hibernate).
  • API Design: Proven experience in designing, building, and scaling high‑performance RESTful APIs.
  • Database Management: Solid understanding of MySQL (or other major RDBMS) along with practical query‑tuning and optimisation experience.
  • Data Streams: Hands‑on experience with Apache Kafka and building Change Data Capture (CDC) pipelines.
  • Optimization: Proficient in Java performance profiling, memory management, and advanced debugging techniques.
  • Environment: Comfortable working in Linux environments, with strong communication skills and experience providing production support.
Preferred Qualifications (Pluses)
  • Familiarity with Directed Acyclic Graphs (DAGs) and Graph Databases.
  • Familiarity with media processing tools and frameworks (e.g., FFmpeg).
  • Exposure to version control systems, CI/CD pipelines, and build automation tools.
  • Experience with service‑oriented architecture (SOA) and multi‑tier enterprise server applications.
  • Exposure to distributed caching systems, Spring Cloud, and API documentation tools like Swagger.
  • Experience with modern data warehousing solutions (e.g., Snowflake, Apache Doris).
  • Familiarity with data streaming tools like Debezium.

Please submit your CV and a cover letter demonstrating how your experience aligns with the technical requirements outlined above. Qualified candidates will be contacted by a Rockstar recruiter to discuss the next steps in our interview process.

Rockstar Games is committed to creating a work environment that promotes equal opportunity, dignity, and respect. We encourage applications from all suitable candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief, race, or any other protected category. Rockstar provides reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities during the recruitment process. If you require an accommodation, please notify your recruiter during your interview process.

Senior Java Backend Engineer - Leeds-Based employer: Festybay

At Rockstar Games, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture in the heart of Leeds. Our team thrives on collaboration and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth while working on groundbreaking projects in the entertainment industry. With a commitment to employee well-being and continuous learning, we ensure that every member feels valued and empowered to contribute to our creative vision.

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Contact Details:

Festybay Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Java Backend Engineer - Leeds-Based

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, especially those at Rockstar Games. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.

Tip Number 2

Show off your skills! If you’ve got a portfolio or GitHub with projects that highlight your Java backend expertise, make sure to share it. It’s a great way to demonstrate what you can bring to the table.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. Rockstar values collaboration, so be ready to discuss how you work with others and tackle challenges together.

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 serious about joining the Rockstar team.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Java Backend Engineer - Leeds-Based

Java
Spring Boot
JPA/Hibernate
MySQL
Apache Kafka
Linux
RESTful API Design

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Java backend development and the specific technologies mentioned in the job description. 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 game development and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Let us know what excites you about this role!

Showcase Your Projects:If you've worked on any relevant projects, whether personal or professional, make sure to mention them. We love seeing real-world applications of your skills, especially if they relate to the gaming industry!

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you're serious about joining our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Festybay

Know Your Tech Stack Inside Out

Make sure you’re well-versed in Java, Spring Boot, and MySQL. Brush up on your knowledge of Apache Kafka and any other tools mentioned in the job description. Being able to discuss your experience with these technologies confidently will show that you're a strong fit for the role.

Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect to face technical questions that test your understanding of backend development principles. Practice coding challenges and be ready to explain your thought process. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and technical expertise.

Showcase Your Collaboration Skills

Since the role involves global collaboration, be prepared to discuss your experience working in teams. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others, especially in a tech environment. This will highlight your ability to work well within Rockstar's inclusive culture.

Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the team, projects, or company culture. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if Rockstar Games is the right fit for you.