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- Tasks: Lead the design and development of secure, scalable systems using Java and modern frameworks.
- Company: Mission-led consultancy delivering impactful software solutions to UK Government and Defence sectors.
- Benefits: Flexible working, learning budget, private healthcare, and clear career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by shaping engineering best practices in a high-impact sector.
- Qualifications: Deep expertise in Java and proven leadership experience in agile environments.
- Other info: Diverse workplace celebrating different perspectives with excellent growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
Our client, a mission‑led consultancy, is looking for an experienced Principal Software Engineer (Java) to join their growing team. They deliver secure, modern software solutions to the UK Government and Defence sectors, enabling clients to build scalable systems and progressive web applications that drive real impact.
This is a senior‑level opportunity for a hands‑on engineer who enjoys leading by example, thrives in agile environments, and is passionate about shaping engineering best practice while still contributing to the codebase.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the design, development, and testing of secure, scalable systems using Java with modern front‑end frameworks (e.g., React)
- Architect and maintain APIs, data pipelines, and cloud‑native solutions (AWS, Azure, private cloud)
- Drive adoption of DevOps practices – CI / CD, containers, infrastructure‑as‑code
- Guide and mentor engineers, promoting best practice, clean coding, and agile delivery
- Collaborate with stakeholders and clients to shape technical direction and ensure robust, user‑focused solutions
- Contribute across the full software development lifecycle, from discovery to production support
- Deep expertise in Java, with strong full‑stack engineering skills
- Proven experience leading teams or projects at a senior / principal level
- Strong knowledge of system architecture, cloud solutions, and API design
- Familiarity with DevOps tools and automation (CI / CD, containers, IaC)
- Track record of delivering secure, production‑grade systems in agile teams
- Excellent stakeholder engagement, influencing, and communication skills
- Background in secure or classified environments
- Knowledge of ITSM or systems within the government / defence sector
- Experience balancing technical leadership with hands‑on development
- Flexible working – 37.5 hrs / week with remote and hybrid options
- Learning & development budget for training, certifications, and conferences
- Private healthcare & matched pension scheme
- Monthly socials and quarterly company meetups
- Clear career progression into leadership roles in a high‑impact sector
Our client is an equal opportunities employer and a Disability Confident organisation, committed to fostering a workplace where diverse perspectives are celebrated and everyone can thrive.
How to ApplyIf you’re an experienced Principal Software Engineer with expertise in Java, and you’re excited to help deliver solutions that truly matter, we’d love to hear from you.
Principal Java Specialist employer: NPAworldwide
Contact Detail:
NPAworldwide Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Java Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work in consultancy or government sectors. A personal recommendation can make all the difference when you're aiming for that Principal Java Specialist role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio of your best projects, especially those involving Java and modern frameworks like React. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, having tangible examples of your work will really help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Get ready for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with DevOps practices and how you've led teams in the past. Confidence and clarity in your communication can really impress interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always looking for talented individuals like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Java Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your Java expertise, leadership experience, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our goals. Don’t forget to mention your experience in agile environments and your approach to mentoring others.
Showcase Your Projects: If you've worked on any notable projects, especially those involving secure systems or cloud solutions, 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 directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at NPAworldwide
✨Know Your Java Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your Java skills before the interview. Be prepared to discuss your experience with full-stack engineering and how you've applied Java in real-world projects. They’ll want to see your deep expertise, so be ready to showcase specific examples of your work.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading teams and mentoring engineers, think about times when you've successfully guided a project or team. Prepare anecdotes that highlight your ability to influence and engage stakeholders, as well as your approach to promoting best practices in coding and agile delivery.
✨Familiarise Yourself with DevOps Practices
Get comfortable discussing DevOps tools and practices like CI/CD, containers, and infrastructure-as-code. They’re looking for someone who can drive adoption of these practices, so be ready to explain how you’ve implemented them in past roles and the impact it had on your projects.
✨Understand Their Mission and Values
Research the consultancy’s mission and values, especially their focus on delivering secure solutions for the UK Government and Defence sectors. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission of making a real impact through technology.
