Lead Java Developer

🚨 Hiring: Java Lead Engineer – BackendClient: CaterpillarLocation: Chicago, IL – Hybrid/OnsiteWe are looking for an experienced Java Lead Engineer with 10+ years of hands-on Java development experience to design, develop, and deploy highly available backend applications and digital platforms.⚠️ This is strictly a Backend Java role — no frontend experience is required.❌ React | Angular | HTML | CSS are NOT required🔹 Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or Electrical EngineeringMaster's degree in CS/EE is preferred10+ years of experience designing and developing software applications using JavaStrong Java 17 experienceExtensive backend development experienceStrong experience developing RESTful Web Services/APIs3+ years of experience leading geographically distributed teamsStrong AWS experience, including:IAMKinesisDynamoDBAPI servicesSQSSNSKMSStrong SQL experience; Slick experience preferredExperience with DevOps practices and toolsExperience designing high-availability and reliable systemsSome software architecture/design experienceAbility to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlinesStrong communication, collaboration, and mentoring skills🔹 Key ResponsibilitiesDesign, develop, test, and deploy complex backend applications and servicesProvide technical and programming leadership to development and support teamsLead geographically distributed development teams and provide technical guidanceResolve complex application and technical issues independentlyParticipate in off-shift/weekend production support when requiredDrive backend application development focused on delivering valuable business featuresEstablish and maintain high standards for software qualityIdentify opportunities for technical and team improvementMentor junior and other development team membersCollaborate with end users and internal customers on application requirements, debugging, testing, and deliveryLead development of new functionality across cross-functional teamsPerform integration testing and customer acceptance testingEvaluate emerging technologies and provide technical recommendationsMake architecture and design decisions for scalable, reusable solutionsPromote enterprise-wide development standards, best practices, and reusable componentsContribute to the design and deployment of a state-of-the-art digital platform🔹 Ideal CandidateWe are looking for a hands-on Java technical leader