Senior Java Engineering Lead

Citi; Mississauga; Hybrid; CAD 207,000 - 310,000; Full time

Job summary

Senior Backend Java Engineer at Citi designs and builds scalable backend systems powering critical Citi applications. You will architect resilient microservices, mentor developers, and influence technical direction within a growing team.

The role blends hands-on coding with strategic tech leadership to deliver high-impact solutions. You'll work with Java, Spring, REST APIs, and modern data stores; you will evaluate AI approaches to improve engineering practices and system design, while

Qualifications

• 10+ years of software development experience with at least 3 years leading engineering teams.
• Strong hands-on coding skills in Java for backend development.
• Deep experience building microservices with Spring Framework and RESTful APIs.
• Working proficiency with MongoDB and Oracle databases.
• Experience with Apache Kafka and event-driven architecture design.
• Solid grounding in software design patterns, architecture principles, and secure coding practices.
• Clear communicator able to explain technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Responsibilities

• Design and build scalable backend solutions for complex technical challenges using Java and modern architecture patterns.
• Write and review production code daily, maintaining a hands-on presence across the development lifecycle.
• Lead the planning and execution of major development initiatives from design through delivery.
• Conduct code reviews and establish coding standards that raise overall code quality.
• Mentor and guide a small team of developers, sharing technical expertise and best practices.
• Evaluate and introduce new technologies and methodologies to improve team productivity and product quality.
• Partner with product managers and stakeholders to shape technical strategy and roadmap decisions.
• Research emerging AI and machine learning tools and apply them to strengthen engineering practices and system design.

Skills

Java

Spring Framework

RESTful APIs

MongoDB

Oracle

Apache Kafka

Design patterns

Secure coding

Communication

Leadership

Education

Master's degree in computer science or related field

Job description

As a Senior Backend Java Engineer, you will design and build scalable backend systems that power critical applications within Citi's technology organization. This hands-on role puts you at the center of complex engineering challenges, where you will architect resilient microservices, mentor developers, and shape the technical direction of a growing team. Your work will directly influence how Citi applies modern engineering practices and emerging AI technologies to deliver reliable, high-impact systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and build scalable, robust backend solutions for complex technical challenges using Java and modern architecture patterns.
• Write and review production code daily, maintaining a hands-on presence across the development lifecycle.
• Lead the planning and execution of major development initiatives from design through delivery.
• Conduct code reviews and establish coding standards that raise overall code quality.
• Mentor and guide a small team of developers, sharing technical expertise and best practices.
• Evaluate and introduce new technologies and methodologies to improve team productivity and product quality.
• Partner with product managers and stakeholders to shape technical strategy and roadmap decisions.
• Research emerging AI and machine learning tools and apply them to strengthen engineering practices and system design.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• 10+ years of software development experience with at least 3 years leading engineering teams.
• Strong hands-on coding skills in Java for backend development.
• Deep experience building microservices using Spring Framework and designing RESTful APIs.
• Working proficiency with MongoDB and Oracle databases.
• Experience with Apache Kafka and event-driven architecture design.
• Solid grounding in software design patterns, architecture principles, and secure coding practices.
• Clear communicator able to explain technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Beneficial Skills & Qualifications

• Master's degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field.

What We Offer

You will join a technology team that values hands-on craftsmanship and gives senior engineers real influence over architecture and delivery decisions.

• Lead technical direction and shape the roadmap for high-impact applications.
• Work in a hybrid model with 3 days in the office and 2 days working remotely.
• Access ongoing learning and development opportunities to deepen your technical expertise.
• Collaborate with engineering teams across Citi's global technology organization.
• Benefit from financial wellbeing programs and long-term career growth support.
• Work in a performance-driven environment that rewards delivery ownership and technical excellence.

Build the backend systems that power Citi's next generation of applications by applying today.

Job Family Group

Technology

Job Family

Applications Development

Time Type

Full time

Primary Location Full Time Salary Range

$145,100.00 - $217,700.00

Most Relevant Skills

Please see the requirements listed above.

Other Relevant Skills

For complementary skills, please see above.

Automated Processing and AI

We use automated processing, including artificial intelligence, for our legitimate business interests (or our reasonable and appropriate business purposes) to identify and align the candidate's skills and abilities with a specific job opening. Additionally, if you so choose, or consent, we can match your skills and abilities to other suitable roles at Citi.

Importantly, all our hiring processes and decisions, including determining your suitability for a role, are conducted, checked, and decided by individuals. Our automated processing and AI do not involve relying on automatic or autonomous decision-making. Please refer to any Jurisdictional Considerations, with specific provisions for your country (where relevant) for further details.

This job opening is for an existing job vacancy.

Citi is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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