Principal Software Engineer (Java)

TL;DR

Principal Software Engineer (Java): Designing, building, and running high-quality backend software solutions for retail, logistics, and financial services domains with an accent on scalable software architecture and engineering standards. Focus on leading the full software development lifecycle, optimizing CI/CD pipelines, and mentoring engineers to drive technical excellence.

Location: Hybrid working model based in Liverpool, United Kingdom

Company

hirify.global is the team behind the digital retailer Very, focused on helping families get more out of life through a high-performing digital shopping experience.

What you will do

• Lead the full software development lifecycle, managing coding practices, frameworks, and technical debt.
• Collaborate with Engineers, Product Owners, and Architects to design and deliver industry-leading systems.
• Influence and implement engineering standards and tools, driving adoption across squads and tribes.
• Design software that balances commercial requirements with the future technical roadmap.
• Take ownership of code quality, security, scalability, and high availability.
• Mentor and coach other engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in building and managing complex software architectures, ideally across multi-cloud environments.
• Strong hands-on experience with Java, AWS components, and CI/CD tools such as GitLab CI.
• Proven ability to mentor and guide less experienced engineers.
• Passion for code quality, testing, and engineering best practices.
• Degree in Computer Science or equivalent professional experience.
• Must be able to work in a hybrid model in Liverpool, UK.

Culture & Benefits

• Flexible, hybrid working model and inclusive environment.
• £1,000 flexible benefits allowance.
• 30 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Udemy learning access and up to 25% discount on Very.co.uk.
• Matched pension up to 6%.

Hiring process

• Initial call with the Talent Acquisition team.
• Take-home technical interview.
• Behavioural and technical interview (60 minutes onsite).