Principal Software Engineer - Backend Systems

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and innovative Principal Software Engineer to lead the design and development of critical backend systems in Derby . In this senior role, you will provide technical leadership, mentor engineering teams, and drive architectural decisions for complex, large-scale distributed systems. You will tackle the most challenging technical problems, ensuring the scalability, reliability, and performance of our client's core platforms. The ideal candidate is a visionary technologist with a deep understanding of software architecture and a passion for building robust, high-quality software solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and development of large-scale, high-performance backend systems and distributed applications.
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to software engineering teams, fostering best practices in coding, testing, and architecture.
• Identify and address technical debt, performance bottlenecks, and scalability challenges.
• Collaborate with product management and engineering leadership to define technical strategy and roadmaps.
• Drive innovation by researching and implementing new technologies and methodologies.
• Ensure the delivery of secure, reliable, and maintainable software solutions.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 8+ years of professional experience in software engineering, with a significant focus on backend systems and architecture.
• Proven track record of designing and implementing complex, mission-critical distributed systems.
• Expertise in multiple programming languages (e.g., Java, C++, Python, Go) and modern architectural patterns.
• Deep understanding of database technologies, caching, concurrency, and performance optimization techniques.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Exceptional salary and comprehensive bonus package.
• Top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Significant contribution to pension schemes and life insurance.
• Access to advanced training, conferences, and leadership development programs.
• Collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment.