Lead Software Engineer (Java/Python, AWS Serverless)

Title: Lead Software Engineer (Java/Python, AWS Serverless)
Location : Rockville, MD or McLean, VA
Target Start Date :ASAP
Type: contract
Pay Rate: DOE

We are seeking a highly skilled, hands-on Lead Software Engineer to drive the design and development of scalable, cloud-native applications. This is a senior individual contributor role for an engineer who combines strong backend development expertise with cloud architecture and DevOps capabilities.

The ideal candidate brings deep experience in Java and Python, a strong foundation in AWS serverless architectures, and a track record of building and modernizing distributed systems at scale. This role also requires experience leveraging AI-assisted development tools to improve engineering productivity, code quality, and delivery speed.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, build, and maintain scalable backend services using Java (Spring Boot) and Python
• Architect and develop cloud-native applications on AWS, leveraging serverless and event-driven patterns
• Build and optimize workflows using AWS Lambda, Step Functions, SQS, and SNS
• Establish and enhance CI/CD pipelines, deployment automation, and DevOps best practices
• Lead code reviews and ensure standards for performance, scalability, and security
• Collaborate with architects and cross-functional stakeholders to define and deliver technical solutions
• Leverage AI-assisted development tools (e.g., code generation, testing automation, debugging support) to accelerate delivery and improve code quality
• Drive continuous improvement across engineering practices, tooling, and system design

Required Qualifications

Technical Expertise

• 10+ years of experience in Java development (Java 8+, Spring Boot)
• 3+ years of hands-on Python development (Python 3.x)
• Strong experience building microservices and distributed systems

Cloud & AWS

• 3+ years of experience building applications on AWS
• Hands-on expertise with:
  • AWS Lambda
  • Step Functions (workflow orchestration)
  • SQS and SNS (event-driven architecture)
• Experience designing serverless and event-driven systems

DevOps & Engineering Practices

• Strong experience with CI/CD pipelines (Jenkins or similar)
• Experience with Docker and container-based deployments
• Familiarity with infrastructure automation and deployment best practices

Leadership & Impact

• Proven ability to lead technical design and architectural decisions
• Strong debugging, problem-solving, and performance optimization skills
• Experience mentoring engineers and elevating team standards
• Strong communication skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments

Preferred (Nice to Have)

• Experience integrating AI/ML capabilities into applications
• Familiarity with tools such as Amazon Bedrock, LangChain, or similar AI frameworks
• Experience using AI coding assistants (e.g., GitHub Copilot, Amazon Q, or similar) in day-to-day development

Welcome to ConsultNet, a premier national provider of technology talent and solutions. Our expertise spans across project services, contract-to-hire, direct search, and managed services onshore, nearshore, and hybrid. For over 25 years, we have connected thousands of consultants with meaningful roles through a personal, communication-driven approach, partnering with a diverse client base to build high-performing teams and create lasting impact. Our comprehensive service offerings cover a wide range of technology and engineering positions across key markets nationwide. Learn more at www.consultnet.com .

We champion equality and inclusivity, proudly supporting an Equal Opportunity Employer policy. We welcome applicants regardless of Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other status protected by law.