Staff Software Engineer

Job Title: Staff Software Engineer / Architect - Java Modernization (AWS / Kubernetes)

Location: St. Louis, MO
Duration:6 Months
Experience:10-15 Years

Description:

JD


We are looking for a staff-level software engineer / architect to lead the modernization of a largescale, mission-critical Java platform. This role is hands-on and focused on rewriting and re-architecting existing systems using modern Java, Spring Boot, and cloud-native patterns on AWS.

What You'll Do


Modernize a legacy Java platform to Java 21 and Spring Boot
Re-architect monolithic components into well-structured, cloud-native services
Design and build services for AWS EKS and/or OpenShift
Define execution models, service boundaries, and deployment patterns
Drive architectural decisions around performance, scalability, and reliability
Work closely with platform, DevOps, and cloud infrastructure teams
Mentor senior engineers and set engineering standards
Own solutions end-to-end - from design through production

What We're Looking For


Staff-level experience building and modernizing large Java systems
Strong hands-on experience with Java (17+ preferred, 21 ideal) and Spring Boot
Deep understanding of distributed systems and system design
Practical experience deploying applications on AWS, preferably EKS
Solid Kubernetes knowledge (EKS and/or OpenShift)
Experience containerizing applications and running them on a scale
Strong grasp of performance tuning, JVM behavior, and low-latency systems
Ability to operate as both architect and hands-on engineer

Nice to Have


Experience migrating from monoliths to cloud-native architectures
Exposure to eventing, messaging, or streaming systems (Kafka, MQ, etc.)
Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines and infrastructure-as-code
Background in financial services, payments, or high-throughput systems