Software Engineering Manager – Java

Cathcart Associates Group Ltd; City of Edinburgh; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company in Edinburgh seeks a Software Engineering Manager to lead a talented team of Java engineers. You will shape the architecture and development of large-scale backend systems while promoting autonomy and growth within your team. The role offers a hybrid working model and a competitive salary package in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Bonus opportunity

Comprehensive benefits package

Hybrid working model

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Software Engineering Manager or similar role.
• Hands-on experience with Java and distributed backend systems.
• Strong ability to manage and mentor teams effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of Java engineers in developing backend systems.
• Coach and mentor team members for growth and development.
• Evaluate and implement new tools and methodologies.

Skills

Team leadership

Java

Distributed systems

Mentoring

Agile methodologies

Job description

Software Engineering Manager

Software Engineering Manager required to lead a team of Java engineers in Edinburgh, shaping the development of next-generation, large-scale systems that solve complex technical challenges in a collaborative environment.

The Opportunity

This is a chance to lead a team of talented engineers building sophisticated, large-scale backend systems that deliver real-time, mission-critical functionality to millions of users. You’ll tackle complex engineering challenges in a regulated, high-availability environment, driving innovation while ensuring reliability, quality, and customer trust.

You’ll lead an agile team who will be working on Java-based distributed systems and cloud platforms, whilst guiding delivery across the full software development lifecycle. You’ll empower your team to take ownership, innovate, and deliver high-impact features with speed and autonomy.

You’ll head up a team of seven engineers, coaching, mentoring, and assessing performance to ensure each individual can grow and thrive in a challenging and supportive environment. You’ll also be involved in evaluating and implementing the latest tools, practices, and methodologies to solve meaningful, real-world problems.

The Company

This is a modern, globally recognised technology company operating at the forefront of software innovation. They have built a deeply technical, forward-thinking engineering culture where collaboration, experimentation, and operational excellence are core capabilities. Teams work with large-scale datasets, complex systems, and distributed architectures to deliver scalable, resilient, and high-quality software, supported by cutting-edge infrastructure and cloud technologies.

Why this role?

• Lead a talented team of engineers delivering scalable, high-quality backend systems.
• Own the full software development lifecycle from planning to production, shaping architecture and delivery practices.
• Promote autonomy, accountability, and a strong culture of coaching, mentoring, and personal development.
• Work in a collaborative, globally connected environment, influencing stakeholders and product outcomes.
• Tackle challenging problems, leverage the latest tools and practices, and help your team deliver innovative, meaningful solutions.

Who you are

• A seasoned software engineering manager who has previously worked hands-on with Java and has strong knowledge of distributed backend systems.
• Experienced managing and mentoring teams, able to assess skill levels and provide tailored support for engineers at all stages of their careers.
• Comfortable navigating complexity in large, regulated environments and delivering high-quality features under tight deadlines.
• Passionate about software development, eager to research and implement modern technologies and best practices.
• A strong communicator and collaborator who can bridge technical and business priorities.

The Offer

You’ll receive a highly competitive salary plus bonus opportunity and a great benefits package too.

The role offers hybrid working, with two days per week onsite in a modern Edinburgh city centre office.

It’s a unique opportunity to lead a talented engineering team, develop world-class software, and shape the careers of engineers in a fast-moving, high-impact technology environment.

If this sounds interesting, please apply or reach out to Murray Simpson.