Senior Backend Developer - Java / Data Integration

About the Role

We are seeking a seasoned Senior Backend Developer to join a global leader in entertainment technology and data analytics, specialising in services for cinemas, film studios, and distributors. This company offers software and data solutions to optimise box-office tracking, operational management, and commercial decision-making.

The primary focus will be developing new backend products, maintaining and enhancing REST APIs, and refining systems that handle extensive cinema transaction datasets. You will also aid in platform modernization, cloud adaptability, and leveraging AI-assisted development practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and sustain backend services and RESTful APIs using Java and Jakarta EE frameworks.
• Develop and enhance data ingestion workflows, ETL pipelines, and scheduled batch processing tasks.
• Process, validate, and aggregate large-scale transaction-level cinema data.
• Compose and optimize SQL queries targeting SingleStore and PostgreSQL databases.
• Utilize Redis technology for caching and effective data access.
• Enhance data ingestion reliability through robust validation, error management, monitoring, and reprocessing mechanisms.
• Support backend functionalities for upcoming web and mobile applications.
• Engage in cloud modernization efforts and containerization strategies.
• Write automated unit tests using JUnit adhering to test-first principles.
• Collaborate with product management and engineering teams on new product features.
• Participate in code reviews fostering clean, scalable, and reliable application architecture.
• Incorporate AI-driven coding tools such as Claude Code or OpenAI Codex to assist development while maintaining code quality.

Candidate Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years professional experience developing backend solutions in Java.
• Expertise in Java EE / Jakarta EE stack, including JAX-RS, CDI, and Servlet technologies.
• Experience with Java application servers like TomEE or Payara.
• Proficient in SQL and JDBC, including query tuning and transaction control.
• Practical knowledge in data integration, ETL operations, batch and file ingestion processing.
• Experience utilizing Redis and relational databases such as PostgreSQL.
• Skill in developing and securing REST APIs utilizing JWT or OAuth2 protocols.
• Familiarity with API version control and ensuring backwards compatibility.
• Hands-on experience with JUnit and following test-first development methodology.
• Comfortable working in Dockerized environments with GitLab CI and Linux systems.
• Experience applying AI-based coding assistants for enhanced software development.
• Strong analytical mindset and proven ability to collaborate proficiently within engineering teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with SingleStore (MemSQL), distributed SQL or columnar databases.
• Knowledge of AWS services including S3, ECS/EKS, SQS, EventBridge, and Secrets Manager.
• Background in migrating Java applications from on-premises to cloud platforms.
• Familiarity with upgrading Java versions (11 to 17/21) and Hibernate ORM (versions 5 to 6).
• Experience in handling media, entertainment, financial, or other significant transaction data sets.