Capco
Principal Backend Developer (Java)

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Principal Backend Developer (Java)
Principal Backend Engineer – Java Location: Edinburgh (Hybrid) | Practice Area: Technology & Engineering | Type: Permanent
Architect the next generation of financial platforms. Lead with Java expertise. Deliver impact at scale.
The Role We’re looking for a Principal Backend Engineer (Java) to join our Technology & Engineering team. This leadership-level role calls for deep technical acumen, a security-first mindset, and strong coaching capabilities. You’ll architect cloud-native backend systems, shape our engineering standards, and mentor teams to deliver high-performance platforms for global financial clients.
This role will sit in our Scotland office, with a need to potentially work in either Glasgow or Edinburgh depending on client expectations.
What You’ll Do
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Lead the design and development of secure, scalable backend systems using Java 11+ and Spring Boot
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Architect distributed microservices and event-driven systems deployed to public cloud (preferably AWS)
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Guide technical decision-making across teams and align solutions to enterprise strategies
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Champion engineering excellence, continuous improvement, and a test-first culture
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Coach developers, shape delivery processes, and influence broader engineering practices across Capco
What We’re Looking For
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Expertise in Java 11/17+, Spring Boot, and AWS-based enterprise cloud solutions
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Proven track record architecting secure, scalable services using microservices and CQRS patterns
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
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Strong experience in CI/CD pipelines, SQL/NoSQL, Kafka, CloudFormation, and streaming frameworks
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Advanced understanding of system security protocols (e.g., OAuth, IAM, TLS, encryption)
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Leadership capability to manage and mentor teams while driving technology strategy
Bonus Points For
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Contributions to thought leadership, mentoring, or RFPs within consultancy or tech environments
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Hands-on experience with GitLab CI/CD, Cucumber, and Behaviour Driven Design
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AWS Certified Solutions Architect (Associate or Professional)
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History of delivering large-scale customer-facing applications
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Passion for experimenting with new tools and approaches within backend engineering
Why Join Capco
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Deliver high-impact technology solutions for Tier 1 financial institutions
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Work in a collaborative, flat, and entrepreneurial consulting culture
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Access continuous learning, training, and industry certifications
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Be part of a team shaping the future of digital financial services
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Help shape the future of digital transformation across FS & Energy.
Benefits
We offer a competitive, people-first benefits package designed to support every aspect of your life:
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Core Benefits: Discretionary bonus, competitive pension, health insurance, life insurance and critical illness cover.
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Mental Health: Easy access to CareFirst, Unmind, Aviva consultations, and in-house first aiders.


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
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Family-Friendly: Maternity, adoption, shared parental leave, plus paid leave for sickness, pregnancy loss, fertility treatment, menopause, and bereavement.
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Family Care: 8 complimentary backup care sessions for emergency childcare or elder care.
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Holiday Flexibility: 5 weeks of annual leave with the option to buy or sell holiday days based on your needs.
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Continuous Learning: Your growth, your way - minimum 40 hours of training annually. Take your pick; workshops, certifications, e-learning. Also, Business Coach assigned from Day One: Get one-on-one guidance to fast-track your goals and accelerate your development.
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Healthcare Access: Convenient online GP services.
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Extra Perks: Gympass(Wellhub), travel insurance, Tastecard, season ticket loans, Cycle to Work, and dental insurance.
Inclusion at Capco We’re committed to making our recruitment process accessible and straightforward for everyone. If you need any adjustments at any stage, just let us know – we’ll be happy to help. We value each person’s unique perspective and contribution. At Capco, we believe that being yourself is your greatest strength. Our #BeYourselfAtWork culture encourages individuality and collaboration – a mindset that shapes how we work with clients and each other every day.
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