Principal Backend Developer (Java)

About this role

Principal Backend Engineer – Java
Location: Glasgow (Hybrid) | Practice Area: Technology & Engineering | Type: Permanent

Architect the next generation of financial platforms. Lead with Java expertise. Deliver impact at scale.

The Role
We’re looking for a Principal Backend Engineer (Java) to join our Technology & Engineering team. This leadership-level role calls for deep technical acumen, a security-first mindset, and strong coaching capabilities. You’ll architect cloud-native backend systems, shape our engineering standards, and mentor teams to deliver high-performance platforms for global financial clients.

This role will sit in our Scotland office, with a need to potentially work in either Glasgow or Edinburgh depending on client expectations.

What You’ll Do

•
Lead the design and development of secure, scalable backend systems using Java 11+ and Spring Boot

•
Architect distributed microservices and event-driven systems deployed to public cloud (preferably AWS)

•
Guide technical decision-making across teams and align solutions to enterprise strategies

•
Champion engineering excellence, continuous improvement, and a test-first culture

•
Coach developers, shape delivery processes, and influence broader engineering practices across Capco

What We’re Looking For

•
Expertise in Java 11/17+, Spring Boot, and AWS-based enterprise cloud solutions

•
Proven track record architecting secure, scalable services using microservices and CQRS patterns

•
Strong experience in CI/CD pipelines, SQL/NoSQL, Kafka, CloudFormation, and streaming frameworks

•
Advanced understanding of system security protocols (e.g., OAuth, IAM, TLS, encryption)

•
Leadership capability to manage and mentor teams while driving technology strategy

Bonus Points For

•
Contributions to thought leadership, mentoring, or RFPs within consultancy or tech environments

•
Hands-on experience with GitLab CI/CD, Cucumber, and Behaviour Driven Design

•
AWS Certified Solutions Architect (Associate or Professional)

•
History of delivering large-scale customer-facing applications

•
Passion for experimenting with new tools and approaches within backend engineering

Why Join Capco