Principal Backend Developer (Java)

About the role

Capco is looking for a Principal Backend Engineer (Java) to join its Technology & Engineering team in Edinburgh, working on cloud-native backend systems for global financial clients. The role is leadership level, combining deep technical acumen, a security-first mindset and strong coaching capabilities. It sits in the Scotland office, with the possibility of working in either Glasgow or Edinburgh depending on client expectations.

Key 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 decisions 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

Required profile

• Proven track record architecting secure, scalable services with microservices and CQRS patterns
• Leadership ability to manage and mentor teams while driving technology strategy
• Bonus points: contributions to thought leadership, mentoring or RFPs, hands-on GitLab CI/CD, Cucumber and BDD, AWS Certified Solutions Architect, history of large-scale customer-facing apps, and experimentation with new tools

Required skills

• Java 11/17+, Spring Boot and AWS-based enterprise cloud solutions
• CI/CD pipelines, SQL/NoSQL, Kafka, CloudFormation and streaming frameworks
• System security protocols such as OAuth, IAM, TLS and encryption

What we offer

• Discretionary bonus, competitive pension, health, life and critical illness insurance
• Mental health support and in-house first aiders
• Maternity, adoption, shared parental and other paid leave
• 8 complimentary backup care sessions and 5 weeks of annual leave
• Minimum 40 hours of training per year and a Business Coach from day one
• Gympass, travel insurance, Tastecard, season ticket loans, Cycle to Work and dental insurance