At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Senior Software Engineer to enhance our tech platform for the automotive industry.
- Company: Autotrader is the UK's leading automotive marketplace, known for innovation and diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, share options, 28 days holiday, and hybrid working flexibility.
- Other info: Work remotely during set periods and enjoy comprehensive wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team that values collaboration and offers impactful work in tech.
- Qualifications: Proficient in Java, server-side frameworks, and passionate about mentoring others.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 € per year.
You’ve probably heard of Autotrader, but do you know what we’re all about? We’re the UK’s leading automotive marketplace, a heritage brand, and a tech darling of the stock market. We bring together vehicle buyers and sellers to give them real choices. Cars may be what we’re best known for but we’re also the place for pretty much everything else on wheels, from e-bikes to caravans. In the automotive world, change is a constant, that’s why we take our job of untangling the complex car-buying journey very seriously. At our core, we’re all about people. We go our own way while embracing diversity and celebrating our differences. We dedicate ourselves to the idea that we work better together. Autotrader is a beautiful, surprising and vibrant place to work. We might not be for everyone, but we could be perfect for you.
About the role
We’re looking for Senior Software Engineers to help us build a technology platform for more than just the needs of Autotrader.co.uk. Utilising our public-facing web services and additional external data sources means that we’ll be able to power businesses across the automotive industry. Spring Boot, Apache Solr, Cloud SQL and Apache Kafka power our platform and process millions of events per day. As a team, our software developers are responsible for ensuring service availability and responsiveness continue to improve. They work on systems that handle thousands of requests per second, with sub-100 millisecond response times, servicing requests from over 50 client applications. Our tech community value collaboration and teamwork. Interactions like pairing, code reviews and regular stand-ups mean our software developers stay connected. You might assume that our name, "Autotrader," means you need to be a car enthusiast to work here. But that’s not the case. We’re looking for people who are passionate about their work and thrive in a collaborative environment.
What we’re looking for
- In depth understanding of Java and the JVM
- Knowledge of server-side frameworks such as Spring
- Web application design and RESTful API know-how
- A structured approach to programming and testing, such as TDD
- Passionate about mentoring and coaching and sharing technical expertise
Although not a requirement, helpful experience includes:
- Google Cloud SQL/Relational databases
- Document/Map based storage (eg: MongoDB)
- Working with Kafka messaging/streaming
During our application process, you will be asked two questions to help us learn more about you and how you align with our values. These will be used as part of our selection criteria, to determine if we progress your application further.
Benefits and more
We’re offering a salary of £50,000 – £70,000, plus an additional 10% of your salary awarded to you in shares each year. These awarded shares will become yours in yearly instalments over the next three years, and you can choose to either sell them or keep them as shares. And you’ll receive 28 days holiday, plus bank holidays and comprehensive private medical cover. That’s not all. You’ll be enrolled in our pension scheme, where our standard contributions are 7% and employee contributions are 5%. We also have comprehensive private medical cover, enhanced family leave provisions, a car salary sacrifice scheme, share-save options, and much more. We always want to give you the support you need and help prioritise your wellbeing, that’s why we provide access to 24/7 online GP and dentist, as well as specialist support for assisted fertility, gender dysphoria, menopause, period care plans and lots more. On top of all that, our hybrid model, Connected Working, combines the best of both worlds – office and home working. You’ll have two fixed weekly office days for team collaboration and one more of your choice to suit your work-life balance. Additionally, we have our remote-first periods at set times during summer and winter. During these periods, you can work remotely anywhere in the UK and from certain locations abroad.
Senior Software Engineer, Backend - Full or Part Time in London employer: Manchester Digital
At Autotrader, we pride ourselves on being a vibrant and inclusive workplace that values collaboration and diversity. As a Senior Software Engineer, you'll not only enjoy competitive salaries and generous benefits, including share options and comprehensive medical cover, but also thrive in a culture that prioritises employee growth and well-being through flexible working arrangements and continuous learning opportunities. Join us in shaping the future of the automotive marketplace while enjoying a supportive environment that celebrates your unique contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Software Engineer, Backend - Full or Part Time in London
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the technologies mentioned in the job description, such as Spring Boot and Apache Kafka. Being able to discuss your experience with these tools during interviews will show that you're not only qualified but also genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your collaborative skills and experiences. Since the team values collaboration, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked in teams, mentored others, or contributed to code reviews in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the two questions you'll be asked during the application process. Think about how your personal values align with those of Autotrader, and be ready to articulate this clearly to demonstrate your fit within their culture.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Autotrader's position in the automotive marketplace and their approach to technology. Being knowledgeable about the company’s mission and recent developments will help you stand out as a candidate who is truly invested in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Software Engineer, Backend - Full or Part Time in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Software Engineer position. Familiarise yourself with the technologies mentioned, such as Java, Spring, and Kafka, to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience with server-side frameworks, RESTful APIs, and any mentoring or coaching roles you've had. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and how they align with the job description.
Answer the Application Questions Thoughtfully:Prepare for the two questions that will be part of the application process. Reflect on your values and experiences that resonate with Autotrader's culture of collaboration and diversity. Be authentic and concise in your responses.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a Senior Software Engineer role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Digital
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your in-depth understanding of Java and the JVM. Highlight your experience with server-side frameworks like Spring and your knowledge of RESTful API design, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Approach
During the interview, be ready to explain your structured approach to programming and testing, such as Test-Driven Development (TDD). This will show that you have a methodical mindset, which is essential for maintaining service availability.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Mentoring
Since the tech community values teamwork, share examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Discuss any mentoring or coaching experiences to demonstrate your passion for sharing technical expertise.
✨Align with Company Values
Prepare for the two questions about your alignment with Autotrader's values. Reflect on your personal values and how they resonate with the company's focus on diversity, collaboration, and a people-centric approach.
