Lead Software Engineer-Java

Career Area:

Job Description:

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other.  We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

Role Overview

As a Lead Software Engineer, you will drive the design, development, and integration of enterprise-grade software solutions using Java, Spring Boot, and modern cloud platforms (AWS or Azure). You will leverage your deep experience in software architecture, design patterns, and agile methodologies to deliver robust, scalable, and maintainable systems. This is a hands-on leadership role, requiring both technical excellence and the ability to mentor and guide teams.

Key Responsibilities

· Design scalable architecture systems for Java-based applications, ensuring high performance, reliability, and maintainability.

· Design, develop, modify, and implement complex software applications using Java, Spring Boot, and cloud-native technologies.

· Architect and implement solutions using established design patterns and best practices.

· Provide technical guidance and mentorship to team members, fostering their growth and ensuring adherence to best practices.

· Conduct code reviews to ensure code quality, maintainability, and alignment with architectural standards.

· Conduct unit testing using automated unit test frameworks to ensure software reliability and quality.

· Identify project and technical risks, and develop mitigation action plans to address them proactively.

· Lead and participate in design walkthroughs and technical discussions.

· Translate business and client requirements into technical solutions, optimizing workflows through automation.

· Integrate software with external systems, APIs, and cloud services (AWS or Azure).

· Ensure software quality through automated testing, performance tuning, and continuous integration.

· Guide teams in adopting agile methodologies and DevOps practices.

· Estimate and monitor development costs, timelines, and resource requirements.

· Collaborate with stakeholders to define technical requirements and acceptance criteria.

· Participate in the full software development lifecycle, from concept to deployment and support.

Leadership Qualities

· Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire high-performing engineering teams.

· Skilled in providing technical direction, resolving complex technical challenges, and supporting team members in problem-solving.

· Experienced in conducting thorough code reviews and facilitating constructive feedback.

· Proactive in identifying risks and leading mitigation planning to ensure project success.

· Strong decision-making and critical thinking skills, with the ability to analyze complex situations and drive productive outcomes.

· Effective communicator, able to convey technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

· Fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

· Experience in facilitating design reviews, walkthroughs, and technical discussions.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing business needs.

· Encourages open feedback and constructive dialogue within the team.

Required Skills & Experience

· 15+ years of hands-on experience in Java software development.

· Strong experience in Spring Boot framework for building scalable, maintainable applications.

· Proven experience designing scalable architecture systems for Java-based applications.

· Deep expertise in object-oriented design, design patterns, and software architecture.

· Proven experience architecting and deploying solutions on AWS or Azure cloud platforms.

· Experience with databases (SQL) and Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) tools such as Hibernate, JPA, or Spring Data.

· Proficiency in concurrency and multi-threading in Java, with the ability to design and implement thread-safe, high-performance applications.

· Strong knowledge of software integration, data exchange interfaces, and API design.

· Experience with agile development methodologies and tools.

· Proficiency in automated testing, CI/CD pipelines, and DevOps practices.

· Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and critical thinking skills.

· Effective communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.

· Experience in leading and mentoring software engineering teams.

Preferred Qualifications

· Experience with microservices architecture and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).

· Familiarity with modern front-end frameworks or mobile development is a plus.

· Certifications in AWS, Azure, or relevant cloud technologies.

· Experience with commercial database systems and web-based software design.

Soft Skills

· Strong analytical and organizational skills.

· Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional, global team environment.

· Adaptability to evolving business and technology needs.

Posting Dates:

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply

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