Java Backend Developer - Chicago

We are seeking an experienced Java Backend Developer with 8+ years of expertise in designing, developing, and maintaining scalable enterprise applications. The ideal candidate should have strong hands-on experience in Java, Spring Boot, Microservices architecture, REST APIs, cloud platforms, and modern software development practices. The candidate will work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality and high-performance backend solutions. Key Responsibilities - Design, develop, test, and deploy scalable backend applications using Java and Spring Boot. - Build and maintain Microservices-based architectures for enterprise-grade applications. - Develop and consume RESTful and SOAP web services. - Collaborate with architects, product owners, and front-end developers to deliver business requirements. - Optimize application performance, scalability, and reliability. - Implement security best practices using Spring Security, OAuth2, JWT, and authentication frameworks. - Design and develop database solutions using SQL and NoSQL databases. - Participate in code reviews, technical design discussions, and architectural decisions. - Troubleshoot production issues and provide timely resolutions. - Mentor junior developers and contribute to technical excellence across the team. - Ensure adherence to coding standards, DevOps practices, and CI/CD processes. Required Skills & Qualifications - 10+ years of experience in Java/J2EE application development. - Strong expertise in Java 8/11/17 and Core Java concepts. - Extensive experience with Spring Framework, including: - Spring Boot - Spring MVC - Spring Data JPA - Spring Security - Spring Cloud - Strong experience in Microservices architecture and distributed systems. - Experience building RESTful APIs and integrating SOAP services. - Hands-on experience with Hibernate/JPA. - Strong knowledge of relational databases such as Oracle, SQL Server, PostgreSQL, or MySQL. - Experience with messaging technologies such as Kafka, RabbitMQ, or ActiveMQ. - Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. - Strong understanding of containerization and orchestration technologies like Docker and Kubernetes. - Experience with CI/CD tools such as Jenkins, GitHub Actions, Azure DevOps, or GitLab CI. - Proficiency in Git and Agile/Scrum methodologies. Preferred Qualifications - Experience with event-driven architecture and distributed systems. - Exposure to NoSQL databases such as MongoDB, Cassandra, or DynamoDB. - Knowledge of monitoring and logging tools such as Splunk, ELK, Grafana, or Prometheus. - Experience working in large-scale enterprise environments. - Cloud certification (AWS/Azure) is a plus. Key Competencies - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. - Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities. - Ability to lead technical discussions and guide development teams. - Strong ownership, accountability, and attention to detail. - Experience mentoring and coaching development teams Compensation, Benefits and Duration Minimum Compensation: USD 34,000 Maximum Compensation: USD 121,000 Compensation is based on actual experience and qualifications of the candidate. The above is a reasonable and a good faith estimate for the role. Medical, vision, and dental benefits, 401k retirement plan, variable pay/incentives, paid time off, and paid holidays are available for full time employees. This position is available for independent contractors No applications will be considered if received more than 120 days after the date of this post.