Software Engineer, Java

Upstream; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 669,600 - 892,800; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Benefits based on qualifications

Job summary

Upstream in Johannesburg is looking for a Software Engineer, Java, to join its development team. You will be responsible for Java application development, working on mission-critical applications from design to testing.

The ideal candidate will have a BSc/MSc in Computer Science, 3-5 years of experience, and a strong grasp of Java frameworks. The position offers competitive benefits while working with a dynamic team in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in designing and developing applications using Java.
• Familiarity with asynchronous messaging technologies like RabbitMQ or Kafka.
• Working knowledge of microservices architectures.

Responsibilities

• Develop high-volume, low-latency applications for mission-critical systems.
• Write efficient software modules and review design documentation.
• Ensure designs meet specifications.

Skills

Java application development

Object-Oriented Analysis and Design

SQL and RDBMS concepts

Spring Framework

JPA/Hibernate

HTTP APIs

Education

BSc/MSc in Computer Science or Software Engineering

Tools

Maven

Git

CI/CD principles

Job description

The company

Upstream is a global leader in mobile marketing automation and digital service innovation, enabling Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and brands to grow revenue, improve customer engagement and succeed in the digital economy. With over two decades of experience and operations spanning 45+ markets across Africa, Latin America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, we are a trusted partner to more than 60 MNOs worldwide.

Headquartered in Athens, Greece, and with regional hubs in London, Dubai, Johannesburg, Lagos, São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Upstream combines global expertise with deep local insight. Our end-to-end approach encompasses strategy, creative development, technical deployment, campaign execution, and ongoing optimization, ensuring seamless, scalable, and performance-driven service delivery.

The role

We are looking for an enthusiastic Software Engineer, Java, to join our Software Development team.

You will be part of a very competent team that works on mission‑critical applications, contributing to all phases of the development process. You will be responsible for Java application development, supporting business objectives while providing expertise in the full software development lifecycle, from concept and design to testing.

Responsibilities

• Develop on high-volume, low-latency applications for mission-critical systems, delivering high-availability and performance.
• Write well-designed, testable, efficient software modules.
• Ensure designs comply with specifications and that specifications cover all needed aspects of the implementation.
• Create/review design documentation and provide feedback on test plans.

Qualifications

• BSc/MSc in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent.
• 3-5 years of full-time professional experience in designing and developing applications using the Java ecosystem.
• Solid background in Object-Oriented Analysis and Design.
• Experience with popular Java frameworks and technologies such as Spring Framework, JPA/Hibernate, JEE.
• Good knowledge of SQL and RDBMS concepts.
• Experience with HTTP APIs.
• Basic understanding of concurrency concepts.
• Working knowledge of Maven, Git, and CI/CD principles.

Desired Experience

• Asynchronous messaging technologies, such as RabbitMQ and Kafka.
• Horizontally scalable, distributed, microservices architectures.
• NoSQL databases such as Redis, Elasticsearch.
• Caching technologies, such as Hazelcast, EhCache.

Desired Attributes

• Strong team player with good communication skills.
• Eager to work with leading-edge technologies.
• Analytical thinker with attention to detail.
• Reliable and dedicated professional with clear thinking and strong attention to detail.
• Able to multitask and thrive in a dynamic environment as well as balance and prioritize activities to ensure critical items are addressed.

We offer a competitive base salary and benefits, directly dependent on the candidate’s qualifications and skills. The real excitement comes from working closely with a dynamic, smart, agile and highly motivated team in a competitive and fast paced environment.

Upstream is an equal opportunity employer. The Company does not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, creed, pregnancy, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital, or any other legally protected status. The Company also makes reasonable accommodations for disabled employees. Finally, the Company prohibits the harassment of any individual based on their protected status. This policy applies to all areas of personnel actions including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, transfer, and social and recreational programs.