Discover Lead Java Software Engineer opportunities for experienced developers ready to guide teams and shape complex software systems. These roles combine hands-on Java development with technical leadership, architectural decision-making, and collaboration across product and engineering teams. Explore vetted positions with salaries of $100,000 or more on Ladders.
Lead Java Software Engineers design, build, and maintain applications while helping set engineering standards and delivery direction. They may lead code reviews, mentor developers, break down technical requirements, and coordinate with stakeholders to deliver reliable software. Depending on the organization, the role can emphasize backend services, distributed systems, cloud platforms, or enterprise applications.
Employers typically seek substantial Java experience and a strong understanding of object-oriented design, data structures, APIs, and software development practices. Familiarity with frameworks such as Spring, databases, testing approaches, and cloud or distributed-system architecture is often valuable. Communication, prioritization, mentoring, and the ability to make sound technical decisions are also important for a lead role.
Lead Java Software Engineers work across industries including financial services, healthcare, technology, retail, and enterprise software. Career paths may lead to roles such as Principal Engineer, Software Architect, or Engineering Manager, depending on a professional’s strengths and goals. Browse Ladders for vetted Lead Java Software Engineer jobs paying $100,000 or more and find opportunities aligned with your experience.
Senior Software Engineer, Scanning Engine
$134K - $199K *
Elevate your career as you design and operate large-scale cloud services for a cutting-edge scanning engine. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance performance and mentor engineers in a dy...
3 weeks ago
$90K - $114K *
Transform customer experiences by bridging technical solutions and business outcomes. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver tailored solutions that enhance people operations and culture...
3 weeks ago
Big Data Developer (Black Lotus Labs)
$132K - $176K *
Shape the future of cybersecurity by leading big data solutions to identify and disrupt malicious threats. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, innovate with cutting-edge technologies, and drive t...
Reposted yesterday
Software Engineering, SMTS - Qualified
$148K - $223K *
Drive complex product initiatives from design to launch, enhancing customer experiences through reliable integrations and AI capabilities. Lead technical direction and mentor engineers in a fast-paced...
Yesterday
Mobile Application Lead Developer
$185K *
Lead the charge in developing innovative iOS applications for emergency response. Collaborate across teams to implement offline-first architectures, drive best practices, and mentor developers, ensuri...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
Senior Manager, Database Platform
$242K - $275K *
Lead and elevate the Database Platform team, driving data architecture, reliability, and team culture for scalable data solutions. Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure data integrity and operation...
3 weeks ago
$120K - $170K *
Transform enterprise software systems by leading design and development efforts, ensuring scalable, secure applications that meet federal mission needs while mentoring engineers and driving best pract...
1 week ago
$120K - $200K *
Partner with us to elevate customer success by delivering technical expertise and support. Your role will bridge customer interactions and product enhancements, driving satisfaction and ensuring optim...
Reposted 3 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Engage with customers to evaluate and implement solutions, driving technical discovery and adoption. Collaborate with sales teams to demonstrate value, manage multiple projects, and identify expansion...
1 week ago
$135K - $160K *
Tackle complex optimization challenges by developing scalable decision systems in supply chain operations. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance analytical models, ensuring alignment with...
3 days ago
Scientific Developer for UFS In-Core Data Assimilation
$110K - $130K *
Advance next-gen forecasting by developing core architecture for in-core data assimilation in Earth system models. Collaborate with scientists and engineers to enhance model capabilities and ensure ro...
2 weeks ago
Quality Engineer (U.S. Army Program Office)
$82K - $172K *
Lead the charge in ensuring product quality for critical defense programs, overseeing quality management throughout the lifecycle, collaborating with stakeholders, and driving compliance with industry...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of Agile transformation, managing complex projects and providing strategic guidance to enhance program effectiveness and stakeholder engagement across diverse team...
5 days ago
Full-Stack Software Engineer - Mobile & Cloud Focus
$110K - $130K *
Drive innovation by developing high-quality mobile and backend solutions. Contribute expertise across full-stack development, focusing on Flutter and cloud infrastructure while collaborating with dive...
Reposted 1 week ago
Staff Solutions Engineer, MSSP Ecosystem Partner
$224K - $308K *
Unlock potential by leading and scaling our MSSP partner business across North America, combining technical leadership with hands-on architecture engagements to drive strategic growth and adoption of...
2 weeks ago
$81K *
Manage and enhance public health technology platforms, ensuring secure, reliable operations for local, state, and federal agencies. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize system performan...
1 week ago
Engineering Manager, Firewall Defense
$225K - $265K *
Lead the charge in developing a high-performing engineering team focused on firewall validation and security. Drive collaboration across technical and product teams while fostering an inclusive enviro...
Today
$112K - $150K *
Shape the future of communication technology by providing expert technical support and training to diverse clients. Collaborate with sales and engineering teams to deliver innovative solutions while m...
1 week ago
$95K - $115K *
Join a team that's dedicated to crafting exceptional user experiences. As a UI/UX Engineer, you'll design intuitive interfaces and collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance digital products...
1 week ago
Backend Software Engineer - Identity
$196K *
Transform the engineering landscape by driving creative improvements and delivering end-to-end identity services. Mentor peers, enhance documentation, and champion security best practices while mainta...
3 days ago
$180K - $200K *
Join us to investigate and resolve platform issues, ensuring quality across campaigns. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance processes, automate checks, and maintain high standards in a f...
3 weeks ago
Staff Software Engineer, Watch SW Remote Compose
$207K - $300K *
Elevate the technical landscape by defining the roadmap for the RemoteCompose rendering stack, collaborating across teams to enhance Android platform integration and performance while mentoring engine...
2 weeks ago
$110K - $130K *
Champion identity lifecycle management by automating access processes, ensuring compliance, and enhancing security posture. Collaborate with teams to identify anomalies and streamline auditing while m...
Yesterday
$84K - $131K *
Lead the charge in developing innovative Java applications, leveraging Spring Boot and DevSecOps practices. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance web-based solutions while integrating AI...
2 days ago
$122K - $183K *
Transform the aerospace certification landscape by leading process development, ensuring compliance with DO-178C standards, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality softwa...
1 week ago
What does a Lead Java Software Engineer do?
A Lead Java Software Engineer develops Java-based systems and provides technical direction for a team or project. Responsibilities can include system design, coding, code reviews, mentoring, and coordinating delivery with product and engineering partners.
What qualifications are common for Lead Java Software Engineer jobs?
Employers commonly look for extensive Java development experience, knowledge of software architecture and APIs, and familiarity with tools and frameworks such as Spring. Leadership, communication, mentoring, and collaborative problem-solving skills are also important.
How much do Lead Java Software Engineers earn?
Compensation varies by employer, location, industry, and experience. Ladders focuses on vetted professional roles paying $100,000 or more, so candidates can explore opportunities in that salary range.
What career paths can follow a Lead Java Software Engineer role?
Potential next steps include Principal Engineer, Software Architect, Engineering Manager, or other senior technical leadership roles. The best path depends on whether you want to deepen technical expertise or focus more on people and organizational leadership.