Principal Java / Spring Boot and Security / Hybrid in Chicago / 10+ YOE

We are seeking a senior-level Java Engineer to join a high-performing team building a next-generation platform for industrial automation and manless yard operations. This Chicago-based company is launching a secure, scalable, event-driven microservices architecture to transform logistics, steel mills, and warehouse operations—and they need a strong backend builder to help lead the way.

You’ll be the most senior engineer on the team (aside from the hiring manager), playing a central role in shaping the technical direction, mentoring junior developers, and driving the evolution of a complex, high-availability platform. This is not a role for someone who just takes tickets—the ideal candidate has built systems end-to-end, sees the big picture, and brings a real-world, hands-on approach to architecture and problem-solving. Required Skills & Experience

• 10+ years of hands-on Java development experience
• Deep understanding of system architecture, design patterns, and algorithms
• Expert-level Spring Boot and Spring Security knowledge
• Strong grasp of secure communication protocols and auth standards (OAuth2, OpenID Connect, SAML)
• Experience with network-level protocols (TCP/UDP, REST, SOAP, gRPC, AMQP, MQTT)
• Proficiency with testing frameworks (JUnit, TestNG)
• Hands-on experience with containerization (Docker) and scripting (PowerShell, Bash) in Linux and Windows environments
• Strong fundamentals in refactoring, architecture cleanup, and technical mentorship
• Proven ability to operate independently and provide technical leadership
• Git, Gradle, and DevOps toolchain familiarity

Desired Skills & Experience

• Cloud platform experience (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• Real-world experience with observability, monitoring, and SRE practices
• Additional language proficiency (Python, C++)
• Exposure to a variety of database technologies (SQL, NoSQL, Graph, Time Series)
• Prior experience in logistics, manufacturing, or industrial automation
• Experience contributing to platform or infrastructure builds from the ground up

What You Will Be Doing

• Designing and building scalable backend systems using Java and Spring
• Leading architecture discussions and refactoring efforts to improve system integrity
• Implementing secure, high-availability services for real-time industrial environments
• Mentoring junior developers (especially those based in Chicago)
• Driving platform-wide decisions and helping shape long-term infrastructure
• Acting as the technical right hand to the hiring manager on a small, fast-growing team

The Offer You will receive the following benefits:

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• High-impact role as the most senior engineer on the team
• Chance to lead technical direction and shape the future of an industry-changing platform
• Hybrid work model: 3 days onsite in downtown Chicago with lake and river views
• 2 days remote
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insuranceetitive compensation

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis now and in the future.

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