At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and deliver complex backend services using Java and Spring Boot.
- Company: Fast-scaling, cloud-first business with a focus on cybersecurity.
- Benefits: Salary up to £120k, hybrid working, and an industry-leading benefits package.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for growth in a greenfield environment.
- Why this job: Play a key role in shaping engineering standards and mentoring future talent.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in backend engineering with strong Java and AWS skills.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 84000 £ per year.
The Ocho Exclusive opportunity for a Staff Java Developer to play a foundational role in a greenfield backend team at a fast-scaling, cloud-first business. This is a key hire into the backend function, with the chance to set the tone for engineering standards, own key parts of the architecture, and mentor incoming talent as the team scales.
You’ll bring deep experience in Core Java and cloud systems, and use it to lead by example, from system design through to hands-on coding and mentoring.
Key Responsibilities
- Designing and delivering complex backend services using Java / Spring Boot
- Supporting architectural decisions, scaling discussions and performance tuning
- Collaborating closely with the technical lead to define best practices
- Mentoring developers, conducting code reviews, and supporting onboarding as the team grows
- Building services that scale in cloud-native environments (AWS) using modern DevOps practices
Essential Experience
- 5+ years of experience in backend engineering roles
- Proven track record of building scalable services in Java (preferably 11+)
- Hands-on experience with microservices architecture, REST APIs, and message queues (Kafka, SQS or similar)
- Deep understanding of AWS and how to build with cloud in mind (ECS, Lambda, CloudWatch, etc.)
- Experience with CI/CD, Docker, and ideally Kubernetes
Bonus points for
- Experience in security, infrastructure or SaaS product environments
- Comfortable with ownership, ambiguity and early-stage team environments
What’s on offer?
- Salary up to £120k
- Hybrid working (Belfast office)
- Industry-leading benefits package
To apply, connect with Neill Ferguson on LinkedIn or submit your CV via the link below.
Staff Software Engineer employer: Ocho
Join a forward-thinking UK technology company that is at the forefront of AI innovation, where you will have the opportunity to develop your skills in a supportive and fast-paced environment. With a strong emphasis on mentorship from senior engineers, flexible working patterns, and the chance to own your projects early on, this role offers a unique pathway for professional growth in AI engineering. The company's commitment to an AI-first culture ensures that you will be working with cutting-edge tools and technologies, making a real impact in complex customer environments.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Staff Software Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your industry on LinkedIn, especially those already working at the company you're eyeing. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those technical interviews! Brush up on your Core Java skills and be ready to discuss your experience with microservices and cloud systems. Practising coding challenges can really help you shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for mentoring! Since this role involves guiding others, be ready to share examples of how you've helped junior developers grow. It’ll show you’re not just about the code, but also about building a great team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our awesome team!
We think you need these skills to ace Staff Software Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience with Core Java and cloud systems. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements in backend engineering!
Showcase Your Projects:Include specific examples of projects where you've designed and delivered complex backend services. We love seeing hands-on experience, especially with microservices architecture and AWS, so let us know what you've built!
Highlight Mentorship Experience:Since mentoring is a key part of this role, share any experiences you have in guiding other developers. We’re looking for someone who can lead by example, so tell us how you've supported others in their growth.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your application. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ocho
✨Know Your Java Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your Core Java skills, especially if you're familiar with Java 11 or later. Be ready to discuss your past projects in detail, focusing on how you designed and delivered backend services. This will show that you not only know the theory but can also apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Cloud Knowledge
Since this role involves building services in cloud-native environments, be prepared to talk about your experience with AWS. Highlight specific services you've used, like ECS or Lambda, and discuss how you've implemented them in previous projects. This will demonstrate your ability to work in a cloud-first business.
✨Emphasise Mentorship and Collaboration
As a Staff Software Engineer, mentoring is key. Share examples of how you've supported junior developers or led teams in the past. Discuss your approach to code reviews and onboarding, as this will show your commitment to fostering a collaborative team environment.
✨Prepare for Architectural Discussions
Be ready to engage in conversations about architectural decisions and scaling discussions. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. This will illustrate your problem-solving skills and your ability to contribute to high-level technical discussions.
