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Lead Java Developer

NPA WorldWide

Bristol

Hybrid

GBP 75,000 - 95,000

Full time

Today

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Job summary

A leading consultancy firm is seeking an experienced Principal Software Engineer with expertise in Java to deliver secure software solutions to the UK Government and Defence sectors. This senior-level role involves leading a team, driving DevOps practices, and contributing hands-on to the codebase. The position offers flexible working options, a learning budget, and clear career progression, ideal for candidates looking to make a meaningful impact in technology.

Benefits

Flexible working

Learning & development budget

Private healthcare

Matched pension scheme

Monthly socials

Quarterly company meetups

Qualifications

Strong experience leading teams or projects at a senior/principal level.
Proven background in secure or classified environments is a plus.
Experience balancing technical leadership with hands-on development.

Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of secure systems using Java.
Architect APIs and cloud-native solutions.
Drive DevOps practices and mentor junior engineers.

Skills

Java

Full-stack engineering

System architecture

Cloud solutions

API design

DevOps tools

Stakeholder engagement

Overview

Job description : 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

Essential Skills & Experience

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

Desirable

Background in secure or classified environments
Knowledge of ITSM or systems within the government / defence sector
Experience balancing technical leadership with hands-on development

What’s in It for You

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

Diversity & Inclusion

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 Apply

If 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.

Qualifications