Robson Bale
Senior Java Engineer – Distributed Systems & Real-Time Data

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Senior Java Engineer - Distributed Systems & Real-Time Data
Location: London
Working Pattern: Hybrid - 3 days onsite
Contract: 12 months
Day rate: Competitive
Robson Bale are currently supporting a leading organisation in the search for a Senior Java Engineer with strong experience across distributed systems, real-time data processing and cloud-native technologies.
This is an opportunity to join a technically complex environment where you’ll be working on high-scale, mission-critical platforms using technologies including Java 21, Apache Flink, Kafka, Kubernetes and Azure.
We’re particularly interested in engineers who enjoy solving complex technical challenges around performance, resilience, scalability and real-time data, while also embracing modern approaches to software engineering, including AI-assisted development.
The Opportunity
You’ll play a key role in designing and delivering highly scalable, event-driven platforms, working closely with architects, engineers and senior stakeholders to turn complex requirements into robust technical solutions.
Your Responsibilities
- Designing and developing distributed, event-driven systems for real-time data processing.
- Building solutions using Java 21, Spring Boot and Flowable.
- Developing highly resilient streaming platforms using Apache Flink and Kafka.
- Applying CQRS and Event Sourcing patterns across scalable enterprise platforms.
- Working closely with Solution Architects to deliver secure, resilient and high-performance systems.
- Using AI-assisted development tools such as GitHub Copilot and LLMs to improve development speed and code quality.
- Supporting strong engineering practices across automated testing, CI/CD and SDLC.
- Working with Kubernetes and Terraform across cloud-native environments.
- Translating complex business requirements into scalable technical solutions.
- Optimising applications for high throughput, low latency and mission-critical workloads.
- Implementing robust security, identity and authentication controls, including OAuth and Azure AD.
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.
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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.
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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.
What We're Looking For
The successful candidate will bring a strong background in Java engineering and distributed systems, alongside hands-on experience with modern cloud and data technologies.
Essential Experience
- 15+ years' experience in Java development and distributed systems.
- Strong hands-on experience with Java 21, Spring Boot and Flowable.
- Experience with ORM frameworks including JPA and iBatis.
- Deep knowledge of Apache Flink, Kafka, microservices and real-time data processing.
- Strong understanding of cloud-native architectures, including Kubernetes, Docker, Terraform and Azure.
- Experience working with CosmosDB, PostgreSQL, Redis or similar data technologies.
- Strong knowledge of REST APIs, CI/CD and automated testing.
- Experience with security frameworks such as Azure AD and OAuth.
- Experience using AI-assisted software engineering tools, such as GitHub Copilot or equivalent.
- Strong understanding of Computer Science fundamentals and SDLC best practices.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with technical and business stakeholders.


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Desirable Experience
It would also be beneficial to have experience with:
- Client Lifecycle environments.
- Kotlin or Scala.
- Oracle and Databricks.
- Big data platforms.
- LLMs and AI-enabled development.
- Observability and resilience engineering.
- Working within regulated or highly controlled environments.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
This role offers the chance to work on highly scalable, technically challenging platforms where distributed systems, real-time data and cloud engineering are central to the technology landscape.
If you’re a senior Java engineer who enjoys working at the intersection of distributed systems, streaming data, cloud technology and modern software engineering, this could be an excellent opportunity to take on a technically significant role in London.
Interested?
Apply directly or get in touch with Robson Bale for a confidential conversation about the opportunity and the wider market.
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