Principal Software Engineer – Backend

About the role

Circles is seeking a Principal Software Engineer (Backend) to lead a high‑performing engineering team in Sri Lanka. The role combines hands‑on technical leadership with people‑management responsibilities, delivering enterprise‑grade Java Spring and React applications for global telco clients.

Key responsibilities

• Mentor, coach and manage a team of developers, overseeing performance, career growth and hiring.
• Define the technical roadmap, align execution with business goals and ensure timely delivery of high‑quality software.
• Design, build and maintain complex enterprise applications using Java Spring and React, including RESTful APIs.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional and client teams to gather requirements, provide technical guidance and drive project success.
• Conduct code reviews, troubleshoot performance issues and enforce best‑practice standards.
• Allocate resources, manage capacity and prioritize work to meet business objectives.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years of software development experience with at least 5 years leading an engineering team of 10 + members.
• Proven ability to work in client‑facing environments and deliver solutions for large enterprises.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and communication skills.

Required skills

• Java and extensive experience with the Spring Framework.
• React for front‑end development.
• Design and implementation of RESTful APIs.
• SQL and NoSQL database technologies.
• Cloud platforms such as AWS or Azure.
• Agile/Scrum development methodologies.

What we offer

• Highly competitive compensation package.
• Opportunity to lead high‑impact projects for a diverse client portfolio.
• Comprehensive professional development and training programs.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Comprehensive health insurance benefits.