Senior Java Developer, Johannesburg

About the Role

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Java Developer to join our team. You will design, develop, and maintain scalable enterprise-grade applications using Java and modern frameworks.

This role emphasizes cloud-native development, microservices architecture, and high-performance, secure coding practices. It is ideal for a seasoned engineer who thrives in collaborative Agile environments, embraces continuous learning, and is passionate about delivering robust, maintainable software solutions.

Key Responsibilities

1. Development & Architecture

• Design, develop, and maintain backend applications using Java 8+, Spring, and Spring Boot.
• Build microservices-based architectures with reusable and modular components.
• Develop and integrate RESTful APIs and event-driven services.
• Implement solutions using Apache Kafka for messaging and streaming.
• Ensure high availability, scalability, and security of applications.
• Apply best practices in coding, architecture, and DevOps for maintainable and extensible solutions.

1. Databases & Cloud

• Work with relational databases such as MS SQL and PostgreSQL and NoSQL databases like MongoDB.
• Design and optimize database queries, schema, and indexes for performance.
• Implement cloud-native solutions using AWS services such as EC2, S3, RDS, Lambda, and API Gateway.
• Monitor and optimize cloud-based applications for performance and cost efficiency.

1. Containerization & DevOps

• Containerize applications using Docker and manage orchestration using Kubernetes / EKS.
• Implement CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins, GitHub Actions, or Azure DevOps.
• Monitor applications using logging and performance tools such as CloudWatch, Prometheus, Grafana.
• Maintain unit tests, integration tests, and automated test frameworks to ensure code quality.

1. Collaboration & Process

• Collaborate with product managers, QA engineers, DevOps, and other developers in an Agile/Scrum environment.
• Participate in code reviews, architecture discussions, and knowledge-sharing sessions.
• Mentor junior developers and contribute to team growth and skill development.
• Translate functional and technical requirements into high-quality software solutions.

Requirements & Qualifications

Must-Have Skills:

• 5+ years of professional experience in Java development.
• Strong experience with Spring and Spring Boot frameworks.
• Hands-on experience with MS SQL, PostgreSQL, and MongoDB.
• Experience with Apache Kafka for messaging and streaming.
• Cloud experience with AWS (EC2, S3, RDS, Lambda).
• Containerization experience using Docker and orchestration with Kubernetes / EKS.
• Familiarity with microservices architecture and RESTful APIs.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and secure coding practices.

Highly Desirable Skills:

• Experience with event-driven architectures and message queues.
• Knowledge of performance optimization, monitoring, and observability.
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and DevSecOps practices.
• Exposure to Infrastructure as Code (Terraform, CloudFormation, or ARM templates).

Education

• Bachelor's degree, higher certificate, or diploma in Computer Science, Software Engineering, IT, or a related field.

Additional Information

• Contract Duration: 12 Months (with possibility of renewal)
• Salary: Negotiable
• Location Options: Johannesburg / Cape Town / Remote
• Must be located in South Africa or have a valid work permit for South Africa