Principal Software Engineer Backend Technologies Platform

🇬🇧Remote - Manchester, United Kingdom1w ago

K-12 Engineering Backend Development Software Engineering Cloud Computing Devops Platform Architecture

Role Snapshot

Principal Backend Engineer leading the design and development of scalable, high-performance backend services using Java and serverless architectures (AWS Lambda) for Turnitin's educational platform. This hands-on role combines technical leadership, mentoring of junior engineers, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver innovative solutions for shared services infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities: Design, develop, and optimize scalable backend services and RESTful APIs using Java and serverless technologies; architect event-driven systems for distributed applications. Mentor junior developers, oversee CI/CD pipeline implementation, conduct peer reviews, and collaborate with cross-functional teams including Architects and Product Managers.

Skills & Tools: Expert-level Java and serverless architecture (AWS Lambda); strong knowledge of RESTful APIs, event-driven systems, and distributed system design. Leadership and mentoring capabilities, CI/CD pipeline expertise, code quality standards, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Qualifications: Significant experience as a senior backend engineer with demonstrated expertise in Java, cloud architectures, and scalable system design. Proven track record of technical leadership, mentoring teams, and delivering enterprise-grade solutions in modern software environments.

Location: Remote - Manchester, United Kingdom

Compensation: Not provided by employer. Typical compensation for this role is £120,000 – £160,000/year based on principal-level seniority, backend engineering expertise, and UK location.

Prep for this role with AI tools →

Job Description

Turnitin is seeking a Principal Backend Engineer with a strong focus on backend development, particularly in Java and serverless architectures, combined with solid frontend experience. This role is ideal for engineers passionate about building scalable distributed systems, data modeling, and delivering high-performing, reliable software solutions for our award-winning educational platform.
As a core contributor to our shared services team, you will play a key role in developing and enhancing the foundational systems that power both existing and new applications. This role is fully hands-on, requiring active involvement in coding, development, and implementation of technical solutions. You will also be called upon to lead more junior engineers and collaborate with other teams.

Responsibilities:

Lead and design, development, and optimization of scalable backend services using Java and serverless technologies (e.g., AWS Lambda).
Architect and implement RESTful APIs and event-driven systems to support high-performance, distributed applications.
Provide technical leadership to the team, ensuring alignment with architectural standards and best practices.
Contribute to the development and integration of user-facing frontend components when needed.
Analyze and optimize existing services to enhance performance, scalability, and cost-effi ciency.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Architects, Product Managers, and engineering leads, to deliver innovative and impactful solutions.
Mentor and guide junior developers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing.
Oversee the implementation and maintenance of CI/CD pipelines to ensure effi cient and reliable software delivery.
Maintain high standards of code quality through rigorous peer reviews, comprehensive testing, and adherence to industry best practices.
Create comprehensive documentation for the developed shared components, including usage guidelines and examples.