About this role
Principal Software Engineer – Java
As a Principal Software Engineer – Java Architect, you will play a key role within the eLIMS-Forensics programme, supporting delivery of enterprise systems across Forensic Case Management, LIMS and Expert Reporting platforms.
This role operates within a complex, regulated forensic environment and combines software architecture, hands-on development, and delivery leadership. You will work with the core Qualitype team (based in Dresden, DE), operational SMEs, solution architects and distributed development teams across the UK, Europe, nearshore and offshore locations.
The position focuses on full lifecycle delivery including technical design, implementation, system evolution and automation, ensuring solutions are robust, scalable and aligned with forensic operational processes and compliance requirements.
Primary Responsibilities
Own and contribute to architecture and development of enterprise Java applicationsProvide technical guidance on design and implementation across distributed teamsSupport modernisation and evolution of legacy forensic systemsEnsure scalable, maintainable and high-performance solutionsShare knowledge and support capability development across nearshore and offshore teamsCollaborate with product, QA, DevOps and architecture stakeholdersSpecific Assignments
Software Engineering & Full-Stack DevelopmentDevelop enterprise applications across client and server componentsWork with:Java 11 / Java 17Java EE / Jakarta EEEclipse RCP, SWT & JFace (rich client applications)WildFly Application ServerSupport modularisation of legacy systems and development of new platformsImplement integration and high-performance processing logicArchitecture & Design
Define software architecture for enterprise applicationsApply object-oriented design and design patterns (SOLID, Clean Code)Support modular system design and decompositionContribute to technical concept design and implementationDatabase & Backend Engineering
Design and optimise backend services and data models
PostgreSQLJPA / HibernateJPQL / CriteriaBuilderEnsure scalability, integrity and performance of data-intensive systemsDevOps, CI/CD & Automation
Work within Git-based development processesDevelop and maintain CI/CD pipelines in Azure DevOpsManage containerised environments (Docker)Use Maven / Eclipse Tycho for build managementImplement automated build, deployment and release processesQuality, Performance & Reliability
Ensure high code quality through testing and best practicesPerform performance profiling and optimisation (JVM tuning)Support production stability and continuous improvementWork closely with QA for test coverage and release qualityCollaboration & Delivery
Work within Agile / Scrum delivery teamsCollaborate across UK, Europe, nearshore and offshore delivery centresSupport team mobilisation, onboarding, training and knowledge transferAct as a technical interface between business and IT teamsSkills Required
Core Technical Skills
Java (11 / 17)Java EE / Jakarta EEEclipse RCP, SWT, JFacePostgreSQLWildFly Application ServerArchitecture & Development
Enterprise software architectureObject-oriented developmentClean Code and Design PatternsModularisation of applicationsLegacy system evolutionBackend & Data
JPA / HibernateJPQL / CriteriaBuilderDevOps & Tooling
Git / Git-based workflowsAzure DevOpsCI/CD pipelinesDockerMaven / Eclipse TychoAutomated build and release processes
Preferred Qualifications
Degree in Computer Science, Engineering or related fieldExtensive experience (8 +) in enterprise Java development and DevOps practicesProven experience in architecture and hands-on developmentExperience working in regulated or complex operational environments (Forensics, LIMS, etc.)Strong collaboration skills across distributed delivery teams