Principal Software Engineer Backend Technologies, Platform (UK Remote)

As a Principal Backend Engineer, you will design and build scalable, distributed backend services using Java and serverless tech, while contributing to frontend needs when required. You’ll lead the shared services that power Turnitin’s educational platform, collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-performance solutions. You will mentor junior engineers, drive architectural standards, and oversee CI/CD practices to ensure reliable delivery. This role offers impact at scale within a globally distributed organization focused on protecting the integrity of global education. You’ll thrive in a remote-first culture that values purpose, accountability, and continuous learning.

• Remote First Culture
• Health Care Coverage
• Education Reimbursement
• Competitive Paid Time Off
• Parental Leave
• Retirement Plan with match

• Lead design, development, and optimization of scalable backend services using Java and serverless technologies (e.g., AWS Lambda)
• Architect and implement RESTful APIs and event-driven systems for high-performance applications
• Provide technical leadership ensuring architectural standards and best practices
• Contribute to frontend components when needed
• Analyze and optimize services for performance, scalability, and cost efficiency
• Collaborate with Architects, Product Managers, and engineering leads to deliver solutions
• Mentor junior developers and promote continuous learning
• Oversee CI/CD pipelines for reliable delivery
• Maintain code quality through peer reviews and testing
• Create documentation for shared components with guidelines and examples

• Over 10 years of backend development with strong Java expertise and hands-on serverless experience (AWS Lambda, Google Cloud Functions)
• Frontend knowledge (React and Web Components) with ability to contribute when needed
• Experience designing and managing distributed, scalable systems and data modeling
• Proven ability to lead across distributed cross-functional teams
• Cloud experience with AWS serverless stack (Lambda, DynamoDB, API Gateway, SNS/SQS, EventBridge)
• Strong understanding of design patterns, TDD/BDD, and clean code
• Experience implementing and managing CI/CD pipelines and IaC
• Proven track record as a Tech Lead with mentoring experience
• Excellent collaboration and communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Strong problem-solving and strategic technical decision-making

• collaboration
• mentoring
• clear communication
• Java
• Serverless architectures (AWS Lambda, Google Cloud Functions)
• React/Web Components frontend familiarity