Principal Engineer - Backend (Elasticsearch)
Our client is a leading UK consumer platform used by millions every day. They foster a collaborative and innovative culture focused on delivering impactful solutions that make moving easier for their users. This role involves shaping the future of search and discovery systems within a high-traffic, consumer-facing environment, providing an opportunity to influence architecture, guide engineering practices, and deliver scalable, high-performing systems.
Role Overview:
The Principal Engineer will lead architectural design and development initiatives across the consumer domain, with a specific focus on search and discovery capabilities using Elasticsearch. You will work closely with product teams and engineering managers to develop scalable systems, uphold engineering standards, and mentor senior engineers. Your expertise will directly impact systems used by millions, ensuring performance, resilience, and long-term sustainability.
Key Skills & Experience:
• Strong backend development experience using Java and Spring Boot
• Deep experience with Elasticsearch
• Proven track record designing scalable, distributed systems
• Experience operating across multiple teams or domains
• Strong stakeholder management and leadership skills
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead the design of scalable, resilient systems, particularly search and discovery functionalities
• Shape the architectural direction of the consumer platform in line with strategic goals
• Drive engineering quality, performance, and scalability best practices
• Collaborate with engineering managers and product teams to deliver high-value initiatives
• Mentor senior engineers and influence technical direction across teams
• Unblock teams by improving processes, simplifying complexity, and fostering best practices
Requirements:
• Right to work in the UK
• Hybrid work environment with 2 days in the London office per week
• On-site working environment required for operational activities
• Experience working across multiple teams or domains in large-scale environments
• Strong experience in Java development
Candidates with a strategic mindset, strong communication skills, and a passion for building impactful systems are encouraged to apply. If you are interested in shaping innovative search solutions for a widely-used platform, we want to hear from you.
