Principal Software Engineer Backend Technologies, Platform (UK Remote)

As a Principal Backend Engineer at Turnitin, you will lead the design, development, and optimization of scalable backend services in Java and serverless environments, while shaping core platform components. You will mentor junior engineers and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-performance, reliable software for a global education platform. This role combines hands-on coding with technical leadership, guiding architecture and best practices. Your work helps power innovative education tools used by thousands of institutions worldwide. This is a chance to influence system design at scale and contribute to meaningful learning outcomes.

• remote-first culture
• health care coverage
• education reimbursement
• competitive PTO
• self-care days
• parennial leave / holidays observed (vary by country)

• Lead design, development, and optimization of scalable backend services using Java and serverless tech (e.g., AWS Lambda).
• Architect and implement RESTful APIs and event-driven systems for high-performance distributed applications.
• Provide technical leadership ensuring alignment with architectural standards and best practices.
• Contribute to frontend components when needed to support cross-functional delivery.
• Analyze and optimize services for performance, scalability, and cost efficiency.
• Collaborate with Architects, Product Managers, and engineering leads to deliver impactful solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior developers to promote learning and best practices.
• Oversee CI/CD pipelines to ensure efficient and reliable software delivery.

• 10+ years in backend development with strong Java and serverless experience (AWS Lambda, Google Cloud Functions).
• Frontend knowledge with React and Web Components; able to contribute when required.
• Designing and managing distributed, scalable systems with advanced data modeling.
• Proven cross-functional leadership across distributed teams in Europe and the USA.
• Cloud expertise in AWS serverless services: Lambda, DynamoDB, API Gateway, SNS/SQS, EventBridge.
• Strong software craftsmanship: design patterns, TDD/BDD, clean code.
• CI/CD experience and DevOps with IaC.
• Ability to conduct system design reviews for scalability, performance, and best practices.
• TechLead experience with mentoring and driving best practices.

• collaboration
• clear communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders
• mentoring and coaching
• Java
• serverless architectures (AWS Lambda, Google Cloud Functions)
• RESTful APIs