Backend Developer (Java/Kotlin)

Opportunity available Senior Backend Engineer In this role you will work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver clean, testable, and maintainable services using Kotlin, Spring Boot or Micronaut, and event-driven architectures with Kafka.

This is a senior-level position ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced environments, values clean and efficient architecture, and leads by example. The role also includes participation in a rotating on-call schedule to support our 24/7 production systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain scalable backend services and APIs.
• Translate abstract architecture into practical design and implementation.
• Lead the full software development lifecycle, including design reviews, code reviews, testing, and deployment.
• Write and maintain Kafka producers and consumers for event-driven systems.
• Ensure high test coverage using TDD practices (e.g., JUnit, K6).
• Implement observability best practices using tools like OpenTelemetry and Grafana.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver new features and support existing ones.
• Provide mentorship and technical leadership to other team members.
• Participate in the on-call rotation to support 24/7 production systems.
• Uphold best practices in CI/CD, deployment, and operational support processes.

Tech Stack

• Languages: Kotlin (primary), Java
• Frameworks: Micronaut, Spring Boot
• Eventing: Apache Kafka (streams, producers, consumers)
• Databases: PostgreSQL, NoSQL (preferred)
• DevOps/CI-CD: Docker, Kubernetes, Git, CI/CD pipelines
• Observability: OpenTelemetry, Grafana
• Testing: JUnit, K6
• Cloud: In-prem cloud, AWS/GCP/Azure (preferred)

Required Qualifications

• W2 only
• 5 years of professional experience in backend development within enterprise environments.
• Strong hands-on expertise with Kotlin and modern JVM frameworks (Spring Boot or Micronaut).
• Deep understanding of building and consuming RESTful services.
• Experience with Apache Kafka in production environments.
• Skilled in containerization and orchestration technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Proficient in test-driven development and writing testable, maintainable code.
• Experience with observability tooling and practices.
• Strong problem-solving and debugging skills.
• Effective communicator with experience working in cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience working as a contractor or consultant.
• Familiarity with Git workflows and Agile methodologies.
• Experience working in cloud environments (AWS, GCP, Azure).
• Exposure to advanced architectural patterns (e.g., CQRS, event sourcing).
• Knowledge of NoSQL databases.
• Experience with AI-assisted development tools (GitHub Copilot, ChatGPT).
• Experience with building end-to-end test suites and CI/CD pipeline integration.
• Exposure to intelligent systems or ML integration is a plus.

What You Will Be Working On

• Enhancing existing microservices and building new ones from the ground up.
• Writing and maintaining Kafka integrations (consumers/producers).
• Developing scalable services using Kotlin and modern backend frameworks.
• Participating in operational readiness: deployments, change management, and support rotation.
• Maintaining high code quality through automation, tests, and peer reviews

ITR Group offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including medical, dental, and 401(k) for eligible employees. The W2 pay range for this type of role is approximately $75.00 - $85.00 per billable hour. This range is an estimate and not a guarantee of compensation. The final rate will be determined by factors such as experience, market trends, and specific job assignments. Discover more about how ITR Group connects top talent with leading client opportunities.