Lead Java Developer

JR United Kingdom; Chester; Hybrid; GBP 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the online gaming industry is seeking a Lead Java Developer to shape the architecture of their real-time gaming platform. This hands-on role involves 90% coding and 10% leadership, requiring expertise in Java, microservices, and cloud technologies. The company offers a competitive package with hybrid working options.

Benefits

Private healthcare

Learning & Development software

Hybrid working – 3 days on-site, 2 days remote

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of Java experience, working with Java 21 preferred.
• Proficiency with SQL databases, ideally PostgreSQL.
• Experience in real-time data environments like gaming or finance is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of scalable gaming products using Java, Scala, and Spring Boot.
• Design microservices architecture and implement high-availability solutions.
• Manage and optimise SQL databases and ensure code quality.

Skills

Java 11+

Microservices

AWS

SQL

WebSockets

CI/CD

Job description

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Lead Java Developer – Gaming | Hybrid (London – 3 days on-site) | Up to £95,000 per annum basic salary + Bonus & Benefits

James Adams Recruitment has partnered with a fast-growing company at the forefront of the online gaming industry. Our client is an innovator in the iGaming space, delivering cutting-edge online gaming to a global audience. They are looking for a Lead Java Developer to play a pivotal role in shaping the architecture and development of their real-time gaming platform.

The Role

This is a hands-on leadership role (90% coding, 10% leadership) where you will take ownership of high-performance betting products. You will work closely with a highly skilled engineering team to drive technical excellence, establish coding standards, and optimise real-time services for a fast-growing platform.

You’ll be responsible for backend architecture, microservices design, database management (SQL), and cloud integration (AWS) while collaborating with designers, engineers, and product teams to deliver world-class gaming solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Develop & Lead – Drive the development of scalable, interactive gaming products using Java (11+), Scala & Spring Boot.

Microservices & API Design – Design and implement modular microservices architecture with 3-tier API design.

Cloud & DevOps – Work within an AWS environment (supported by an in-house DevOps team) to ensure high availability, scalability, and performance.

Database Management – Manage and optimise SQL-based databases with at least 2-3 years of experience.

Real-time Streaming & Low Latency – Implement real-time communication protocols such as WebSockets to create engaging, live betting and gaming experiences.

Code Quality & CI/CD – Lead the coding standards across the backend team, drive unit testing, automated testing, and CI/CD best practices.

Mentor & Collaborate – Support a team of engineers, providing guidance on best practices and emerging technologies.

What We’re Looking For

Strong Java Expertise – 5-7 years of Java 11+ experience (currently using Java 21).

SQL Database Proficiency – Strong experience with SQL databases (PostgreSQL preferred).

Microservices & Cloud – Deep knowledge of microservices architecture, API design, and AWS.

Betting, Gaming, or Big Data Background – Experience in real-time data environments such as betting, finance, stock markets, video streaming (sports/TV), or news is highly desirable.

Problem-solving Mindset – Ability to troubleshoot and resolve performance issues in high-volume applications.

The Package & Benefits

? Up to £95K base salary

? Private healthcare & Learning & Development software

? Hybrid working – 3 days on-site in Hammersmith, 2 days remote

Interview Process

? Tech Test → 1-hour final interview (2 stage process)

If you're looking to take technical ownership of cutting-edge gaming products in a fast-moving and innovative industry, this role could be perfect for you.