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.
R&D Computer Science - Software Test Automation Engineer - Special Programs, Onsite
$121K - $237K *
Transform quality assurance by developing automated test scripts for web applications. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance testing processes and ensure reliability, contributing to nati...
Today
Lead Software Development Engineer
$152K - $190K *
Lead the charge in developing scalable, secure platforms that enhance financial planning solutions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation while ment...
Yesterday
Software Engineer - Test and Automation Engineer
$90K - $162K *
Unlock potential by driving software quality through testing, automation, and collaboration. Engage in a dynamic Agile environment, contributing to enterprise-level applications while enhancing your s...
Today
Sr. Software Development Engineer, AWSBA Service Care Center (SCC)
$150K - $251K *
Elevate the software development experience for thousands of AWS engineers. Collaborate to design and build innovative tools that simplify deployment and maintenance, driving transformation and effici...
1 week ago
Software Dev Engineer III, AWS Billing
$168K - $227K *
Shape the future of cloud billing by developing innovative software solutions that enhance AWS's capabilities in metering usage, generating accurate charges, and managing customer accounts at scale...
2 weeks ago
$82K - $147K *
Engage in user-focused design and development as you advocate for positive experiences across UI, CLI, and API. Collaborate with teams to enhance performance, resolve issues, and contribute to a cultu...
2 weeks ago
Software Engineer, Tooling and Development Infrastructure
$115K - $158K *
Play a key role in enhancing developer productivity through effective automation tools and testing strategies. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust solutions ensuring software qua...
Reposted 1 month ago
Software Development Engineer - Tools
$110K - $130K *
Innovate in health software by developing and automating tests for Apple’s Health ecosystem. Collaborate with engineers and experts to enhance user experiences while ensuring quality and reliability i...
Yesterday
Senior Technical Program Manager, QA & Developer Experience
$115K - $188K *
Elevate your career by leading programs that enhance QA processes and developer workflows, driving exceptional quality and efficiency in AI-powered experiences across a dynamic team. Your influence wi...
Reposted 6 days ago
Software Engineer 2 (FST - 135)
$110K - $130K *
Unlock backend development potential by creating scalable solutions utilizing Java frameworks like Spring. Collaborate in Agile teams to drive project success with strong debugging, coding standards...
Reposted 6 days ago
System Dev Engineer, CIA Deployment Engine Team
$129K - $174K *
Join a dynamic team to design and implement AI-driven tools for automating network management across Amazon's global fulfillment centers, enhancing operational efficiency and scalability...
1 week ago
$120K - $145K *
Champion innovative software solutions by developing, testing, and deploying applications across diverse environments. Collaborate with a skilled team to enhance database engines and optimize secure...
Today
$82K - $173K *
Architect innovative RF testing solutions to enhance national security. Collaborate with a leading R&D team to develop and validate critical systems, ensuring safety and compliance while executing com...
3 days ago
$120K - $140K *
Join a team that's shaping the future of energy efficiency through innovative software solutions. Lead a talented engineering group in delivering high-quality products while ensuring operational excel...
1 week ago
$120K - $140K *
Lead a dynamic software engineering team, ensuring quality delivery and operational excellence while fostering collaboration across business units and driving innovation in energy efficiency solutions...
1 week ago
Software Engineer, DevEx & Tools
$130K - $280K *
Empower engineering teams by enhancing developer tools and workflows, ensuring reliable CI/CD processes and automated environments that streamline code development, testing, and deployment for optimal...
3 days ago
Software Engineer - Test Automation & HIL Integration
$110K - $130K *
Join a team that's developing cutting-edge interface software and automation frameworks. Collaborate on real-time systems, enhance CI pipelines, and support integration efforts to drive innovation in...
2 weeks ago
$145K - $180K *
Lead and grow a dynamic software development team, driving innovation in B2B print and packaging solutions. Collaborate across departments to enhance systems, prioritize projects, and ensure operation...
1 week ago
Staff Software Development Engineer - Wallet - Authentication
$194K - $253K *
Transform authentication experiences for millions by leading backend services and APIs. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance security, usability, and trust while driving innovative solut...
Today
Software Development Engineer - Gen AI, Amazon Connect
$110K - $160K *
Design innovative software solutions that enhance customer experiences while navigating a fast-paced environment. Collaborate with diverse teams to create impactful features and services that drive su...
3 days ago
$96K - $145K *
Accelerate progress at a dynamic tech firm by leading automation efforts, enhancing software quality, and mentoring teams. Leverage your expertise in test frameworks and CI/CD integration to drive inn...
1 week ago
Senior Software Engineer, Manufacturing Test
$191K - $253K *
Accelerate progress at the forefront of software engineering by enhancing automation in manufacturing tests. Tackle complex, multiplatform challenges and drive innovative solutions through robust anal...
Reposted 2 weeks ago
Senior Test Automation Engineer
$125K - $150K *
Transform quality assurance processes by developing test plans and automation strategies. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance and deliver high-quality applications for critica...
2 days ago
Senior Test Automation Engineer
$125K - $150K *
Join a team that's dedicated to enhancing quality assurance for critical projects. As a Senior Test Automation Engineer, you'll develop test plans, automate testing processes, and ensure compliance wi...
2 days ago
Principal Software Development Engineer
$188K - $296K *
Advance the development of innovative software solutions, integrating scalable and secure applications while mentoring teams. Drive technical leadership and ensure quality assurance throughout the sof...
Reposted 3 weeks 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.