Title: Java Backend Developer
Job Type: Contract
Location: Loveland, Hybrid (3 days per week onsite)
Pay Range: $60-$80/hour
Summary
We are looking for an experienced Java Backend Developer to contribute to the design, development, and modernization of enterprise applications. This role is suited for a professional who enjoys working on complex systems, evolving legacy platforms into modern architectures, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who can take ownership of backend development efforts while also guiding less experienced engineers and promoting best practices across the team.
Responsibilities
- Build and enhance backend services, APIs, and microservices using Java and modern frameworks
- Transform and upgrade older Java applications, including legacy frameworks, into scalable and maintainable solutions
- Improve existing systems through code optimization, refactoring, and performance tuning
- Design and implement database solutions using Oracle and ORM technologies
- Develop automated tests, including unit and integration coverage, to ensure application quality
- Apply strong object-oriented design principles, coding standards, and architectural best practices
- Collaborate with stakeholders across product, QA, DevOps, and engineering teams within Agile workflows
- Participate in technical discussions, peer reviews, and root-cause analysis for issues
- Troubleshoot and support applications in Linux-based environments
- Provide mentorship to junior team members and contribute to team knowledge sharing
- Maintain technical documentation related to systems, APIs, and enhancements
- Assist in production support and incident resolution when required
Skills
- 5+ years of hands-on experience with Java development
- Strong expertise in Spring ecosystem (Spring Boot, MVC, Security, Data)
- Proven experience building RESTful services and scalable backend systems
- Background in working with and upgrading legacy Java frameworks
- Proficiency with Oracle databases, SQL, and ORM tools such as Hibernate or JPA
- Experience with testing frameworks like JUnit and Mockito
- Solid understanding of software design principles, patterns, and clean code practices
- Familiarity with build tools such as Maven or Gradle
- Strong version control experience using Git and modern workflows
- Comfortable working in Linux environments
- Ability to work independently while clearly communicating progress and challenges
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and communication abilities
- Experience working in Agile/Scrum development environments
- Capability and willingness to mentor junior developers
Preferred Skills:
- Exposure to cloud platforms, particularly Azure
- Experience with container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)
- Familiarity with CI/CD tools such as Jenkins, GitHub Actions, or Azure DevOps
- Knowledge of messaging systems (Kafka, RabbitMQ, Service Bus)
- Experience with API documentation tools (Swagger/OpenAPI, Postman)
- Understanding of modern authentication and security protocols (OAuth2, JWT, OpenID Connect)
- Experience with monitoring and observability tools
- Background in microservices and system modernization initiatives
- Prior experience in healthcare or regulated environments is a plus
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.