Principal Java EngineerJava | Kotlin | Cloud NativeAt a glancePrincipal level backend role with architectural ownershipJava and Kotlin microservices in a cloud native environmentHybrid working in BelfastSalary up to £80k plus bonusThe roleAs a Principal Java Engineer, you will provide technical leadership across a critical product area, shaping architecture, guiding engineering standards and influencing how scalable backend systems are designed and delivered.You will work closely with Senior, Staff and Principal Engineers across Belfast and the wider global engineering organisation, contributing to large scale distributed systems while acting as a technical authority within the team.This role offers a strong mix of hands-on development, architectural decision making and mentorship.What you will be doingOwning technical direction and architecture for key backend servicesDesigning, building and evolving scalable Java and Kotlin microservicesDriving best practices around TDD, BDD and clean codeLeading code reviews and setting high engineering standardsDecomposing complex monolithic systems into modern distributed architecturesPartnering with product, platform and engineering leadership on technical strategyOwning production systems including reliability, monitoring and on-call standardsIdentifying and addressing technical debt with a long term mindsetMentoring Senior and mid-level engineers across the teamContributing to continuous improvement of engineering processes and toolingWhat you’ll need:8+ years’ experience in backend software engineeringStrong commercial experience using Java, with Kotlin exposure a plusProven experience designing and building scalable microservicesStrong background in Cloud native architecturesExtensive experience designing and building RESTful APIsDeep understanding of SOLID principles and software design patternsStrong experience with relational databases such as MySQLAbility to influence architecture and technical decisions at team level and aboveExcellent problem solving and communication skillsWhat’s on offerCompetitive salary up to £80k plus bonusGenerous benefits packageHybrid working with a modern Belfast officePrincipal level role with genuine technical influence and ownershipFor more information on this opportunity, connect with Neill Ferguson on LinkedIn or submit your CV via the link below.