Java Backend DeveloperLocation: Northbrook, IL (Remote) | ContractOverviewOur client is seeking a Java Backend Developer to design, build, and maintain robust backend services that support its enterprise applications. Working with limited supervision, you will own complex modules, take part in design and code reviews, and partner with Product Owners to deliver secure, stable, high-performance software that improves operational efficiency.ResponsibilitiesDevelop clean, maintainable, and secure code for intermediate to complex modules in line with architecture guidelines and documentation standardsDesign, document, and build resilient microservices and high-performance RESTful APIs for seamless cross-service communicationReview and maintain core software components so they scale efficiently with business growthCreate test plans, conditions, and test data; conduct module and integration testing; track and resolve defectsParticipate in design and code reviews, giving constructive feedback to uphold quality and security standardsCreate and maintain clear, up-to-date technical documentationPartner with Product Owners in agile ceremonies on story creation, technical sizing, and backlog groomingSupport change management and production deployments, using observability and monitoring tools to ensure post-rollout stabilityIdentify runtime issues, troubleshoot bottlenecks quickly, and help resolve complex system defectsRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent practical experience5+ years of professional software engineering experience building and running enterprise-scale applicationsStrong backend development skills in Java and Spring BootSolid understanding of microservices architecture and hands-on experience building, securing, and consuming REST APIsExperience implementing modern security practices, specifically OAuth and JWTHands-on experience with relational (SQL) and/or NoSQL databases such as MongoDBProficiency with GitHub (branching and merging strategies) and automated CI/CD pipelinesProficiency with modern IDEs such as IntelliJ IDEA or Visual Studio CodeStrong sense of ownership and the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new tools and technologiesPreferred QualificationsBackend experience with PythonExperience with enterprise observability and monitoring tools such as Datadog (logging, tracing, metrics)Exposure to Large Language Models and agentic AI frameworks (e.g., LangChain, LangGraph, Microsoft Agent Framework, Google ADK)Front-end experience with React and TypeScriptInterest in engineering communities and collaborative knowledge sharingPay rate: $65/hr. This is a 6-month contract position, remote, based in Northbrook, IL. Candidates must be US Citizens, Green Card holders, or H1B, H4 EAD, or L2 EAD holders.