Principal Backend Developer (Java)

UK - Edinburgh

Principal Backend Engineer – Java

Location: Edinburgh (Hybrid) | Practice Area: Technology & Engineering | Type: Permanent

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

About the Position

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.

Responsibilities

• 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

Requirements

• 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

We Offer

We offer a competitive, people-first benefits package designed to support every aspect of your life:

• Core Benefits: Discretionary bonus, competitive pension, health insurance, life insurance and critical illness cover.

• Mental Health: Easy access to CareFirst, Unmind, Aviva consultations, and in-house first aiders.

• Family-Friendly: Maternity, adoption, shared parental leave, plus paid leave for sickness, pregnancy loss, fertility treatment, menopause, and bereavement.

• Family Care: 8 complimentary backup care sessions for emergency childcare or elder care.

• Holiday Flexibility: 5 weeks of annual leave with the option to buy or sell holiday days based on your needs.

• Continuous Learning: Your growth, your way - minimum 40 hours of training annually. Take your pick; workshops, certifications, e-learning. Also, Business Coach assigned from Day One: Get one-on-one guidance to fast-track your goals and accelerate your development.

• Healthcare Access: Convenient online GP services.

• Extra Perks: Gympass(Wellhub), travel insurance, Tastecard, season ticket loans, Cycle to Work, and dental insurance.

About the Company

Deliver high-impact technology solutions for Tier 1 financial institutions. Work in a collaborative, flat, and entrepreneurial consulting culture. Access continuous learning, training, and industry certifications. Be part of a team shaping the future of digital financial services. Help shape the future of digital transformation across FS & Energy.

Inclusion at Capco

We’re committed to making our recruitment process accessible and straightforward for everyone. If you need any adjustments at any stage, just let us know – we’ll be happy to help. We value each person’s unique perspective and contribution. At Capco, we believe that being yourself is your greatest strength. Our #BeYourselfAtWork culture encourages individuality and collaboration – a mindset that shapes how we work with clients and each other every day.

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