Lead Java Developer

Improving; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Improving Vancouver’s data and cloud team is seeking a Lead Java Developer who combines hands-on engineering with technical leadership to deliver complex software for clients ranging from startups to enterprises.

You will mentor engineers, shape technical direction, and work closely with clients to define scope, estimates, and milestones while maintaining high standards for code quality and documentation. Willingness to travel to the United States is required.

Qualifications

• Leading the design and delivery of complex software solutions.
• Strong object-oriented development with Java and/or C++.
• Experience with SQL databases and cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Ability to travel to the United States.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of complex software solutions from initial concept through implementation, testing, and release.
• Remain hands-on with architecture, development, testing, code reviews, and technical problem-solving.
• Establish and champion high standards for code quality, testing, maintainability, and documentation.
• Develop expertise in key technical areas and share that knowledge across teams.
• Evaluate and adopt new technologies where they improve client or technical outcomes.
• Provide technical leadership for client projects and take accountability for successful technical outcomes.
• Work directly with clients to understand requirements, explore solutions, and provide technical guidance.
• Define technical scope, estimates, milestones, and deliverables.
• Translate complex business problems into practical technical solutions.
• Communicate progress, risks, trade-offs, and technical decisions clearly to clients and internal stakeholders.
• Guide developers through technical decisions, implementation, testing, and delivery.
• Delegate effectively while remaining accountable for the overall technical outcome.
• Mentor developers and provide actionable feedback that supports their growth.
• Build alignment around technical direction and gain buy-in from clients, developers, and other stakeholders.
• Contribute to engineering practices, knowledge sharing, recruitment, and an inclusive team environment.

Skills

Java

C++

SQL

Databases

AWS

Azure

GCP

Software architecture

Mentoring

Client communication

Travel flexibility

Leadership

Independent work

Education

Degree in Computer Science or related

Job description

[NOTE: This role is open to residents of BC, Calgary, Winnipeg, Ontario and Ottawa]

Improving is a 15+ year technology management and consulting services firm deeply rooted in our commitment to establishing trust. We live out our values of Excellence, Dedication, and Involvement by providing each of our 1500 members across 16 locations on two continents a variety of opportunities and programs to grow in a way that's befitting their unique talents and interests, while supporting each one's unique path in life.

Improving Vancouver’s data and cloud team has been building strong relationships and expert technical knowledge with clients such as start-ups and established multi-nationals since 2017. From architecture to infrastructure to low level connector, we innovate and build out the world's data ecosystems. We value kindness, engagement, a resourceful perspective, and fresh ideas. We thrive on crafting technical excellence.

A Lead Java Developer at Improving Vancouver is a go-to for a one or more technologies - not necessarily having all the answers as much as being able to navigate the ecosystems of their area(s) of specialty. The interview approach we take for a Lead Developer addresses the technical mentor role you have played, but also the value you bring to the table as a specialist in one or more technologies. You can look forward to rich discussion and the mutual sharing of technology Pro Tips and insights - your interviewers are smart and caring people who want to help you feature your valuable skills and abilities. Furthermore we value your opinions, insights and questions and encourage you to share them both in anonymous surveys or within the direct discussions.

New members can expect an exceptional onboarding experience where you'll get to know everybody in the company, our various internal programs for learning and sharing new technologies among the team, and work with your manager to make sure you are supported in your way of work and in your career growth. Your learning, your growth are critically important to us and we look forward to growing together!

As a Lead Java Developer you'll be given autonomy and trust to:

Combine hands-on engineering with technical leadership to solve complex problems, guide delivery, and help other developers succeed. You’ll work directly with clients and internal teams to shape solutions, make key technical decisions, and deliver high-quality software.

What You’ll Do

Technical Leadership

• Lead the design and delivery of complex software solutions from initial concept through implementation, testing, and release.
• Remain hands-on with architecture, development, testing, code reviews, and technical problem-solving.
• Establish and champion high standards for code quality, testing, maintainability, and documentation.
• Develop expertise in key technical areas and share that knowledge across teams.
• Evaluate and adopt new technologies where they improve client or technical outcomes.

Client & Project Delivery

• Provide technical leadership for client projects and take accountability for successful technical outcomes.
• Work directly with clients to understand requirements, explore solutions, and provide technical guidance.
• Define technical scope, estimates, assumptions, milestones, and deliverables.
• Translate complex business problems into practical technical solutions.
• Communicate progress, risks, trade-offs, and technical decisions clearly to clients and internal stakeholders.
• Guide developers through technical decisions, implementation, testing, and delivery.
• Delegate effectively while remaining accountable for the overall technical outcome.
• Mentor developers and provide actionable feedback that supports their growth.
• Build alignment around technical direction and gain buy-in from clients, developers, and other stakeholders.
• Contribute to engineering practices, knowledge sharing, recruitment, and an inclusive team environment.

What You Bring

• A degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
• Demonstrated experience leading the design and delivery of complex software solutions.
• Strong object-oriented development experience with Java and/or C++.
• Strong experience with SQL, databases, and database connectivity.
• Experience designing and deploying solutions using AWS, Azure, and/or GCP.
• Experience with software architecture, design documentation, requirements definition, and estimation.
• Experience mentoring developers and establishing strong engineering practices.
• Strong client-facing communication and the ability to explain technical concepts, decisions, and trade-offs.
• Ability to work independently while leading and influencing others.
• Ability to travel to the United States.

Nice to Have

• Experience with Big Data and/or NoSQL technologies.
• Experience with authentication and identity technologies such as SSO, OAuth, SAML, or LDAP.
• Professional or personal experience building AI-enabled solutions.

We are honoured to live and work on the traditional and unceded territories of the qiqéyt (Qayqayt) First Nation as well as all Coastal Salish Peoples including the ʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) and sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh).