At a Glance
- Tasks: Build core backend services in Java for data governance and query manipulation.
- Company: Innovative tech firm in Birmingham with a hybrid work model.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment focused on impactful projects and career advancement.
- Why this job: Join a team shaping the future of data access with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Strong Java experience and a solid understanding of SQL and backend performance.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Birmingham (Hybrid)
Employment: Fixed Term Contract
Salary: £50,000 – £65,000 base (dependent on experience)
If your idea of backend engineering is more than CRUD APIs and microservices boilerplate — this role is for you. We’re building the core backend services of a Data Fabric platform that governs data access, entitlements, and query policy enforcement across distributed enterprise data systems. This is platform engineering: deterministic rule engines, SQL planning/interception, and high-throughput services that sit on the critical path of data access. This is deep backend + data infrastructure work.
What You’ll Do
- Build core backend services in Java (17/21) for access control and query manipulation
- Implement deterministic policy/rule engines for data governance
- Work on SQL parsing, planning, validation, and transformation (e.g., Calcite or similar planners)
- Integrate with distributed data platforms/query engines (e.g., Starburst or similar)
- Own API contracts with living documentation in CI/CD
- Build production-grade, testable pipelines
- Drive observability, reliability, and performance
- Contribute to architecture decisions (modularity, DI, extensibility)
What You Bring (Must-Have)
- Strong hands-on experience in Java (17/21) + Spring
- Deep understanding of JDBC, SQL parsing/validation, query planning/optimization
- Experience with SQL planners or query transformation layers
- Strong grounding in data structures, algorithms, and backend performance
- Production-grade testing using JUnit 5, Mockito
- Experience with clean architecture, DI, modular design
- Comfortable owning CI/CD, code quality, observability
- Familiarity with Docker, Maven, Jenkins
Nice to Have
- Apache Calcite
- Starburst or federated query engines
- JVM performance tuning
- High-throughput service interfaces (REST/gRPC)
- Data governance or policy enforcement layers
This Role Is Ideal If You’ve Worked On
- Data platforms, governance layers, query engines, or SQL planners
- Backend/platform services that sit in the critical path of data access
- Systems where correctness, determinism, and performance matter
Backend Java Developer - Birmingham • Hybrid • £50–65k • Not London employer: NextWave Consulting
Join a forward-thinking company in Birmingham that values innovation and technical excellence, offering a hybrid work environment that promotes work-life balance. With competitive salaries and a focus on employee growth, you'll have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge backend services while contributing to a collaborative culture that encourages continuous learning and development. Experience the unique advantage of being part of a team that prioritises impactful projects in data governance and infrastructure, making your work both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Backend Java Developer - Birmingham • Hybrid • £50–65k • Not London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend meetups, and connect with other developers. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a GitHub profile showcasing your projects, especially those related to backend services and Java. This gives potential employers a taste of what you can do beyond your CV.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your Java knowledge and understanding SQL parsing and query planning. Practice coding challenges and system design questions to impress during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Backend Java Developer - Birmingham • Hybrid • £50–65k • Not London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Backend Engineering:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for backend engineering. Share specific projects or experiences that highlight your skills in Java and data infrastructure. We want to know what excites you about building core backend services!
Tailor Your CV to the Role:Make sure your CV reflects the key skills mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience with JDBC, SQL parsing, and any relevant tools like Docker or Jenkins. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points for your achievements and responsibilities to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate clarity, especially when it comes to your technical skills and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at NextWave Consulting
✨Know Your Java Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your Java skills, especially versions 17 and 21. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with Spring and how you've implemented backend services in previous roles. They’ll want to see that you can go beyond the basics!
✨Understand Data Governance
Since this role involves data governance and query manipulation, it’s crucial to understand these concepts deeply. Prepare to talk about any experience you have with deterministic policy engines or SQL parsing. Real-world examples will make your answers stand out!
✨Showcase Your Testing Skills
Production-grade testing is a must for this position. Be prepared to discuss your experience with JUnit 5 and Mockito. Bring examples of how you’ve ensured code quality and reliability in your past projects, as this will demonstrate your commitment to high standards.
✨Familiarise Yourself with CI/CD Tools
They’re looking for someone comfortable with CI/CD processes, so make sure you know your way around tools like Docker, Maven, and Jenkins. Be ready to explain how you’ve used these tools to improve deployment pipelines and maintain code quality in your previous roles.
