Senior Java API Engineer (contract)

Mindgrub Technologies is an award-winning agency whose mission is to drive efficiency, growth, and ROI through AI and digital innovation. We leverage a deep understanding of technology and growth strategy to deliver multi-channel solutions for enterprise clients, with a focus on the energy and utilities sectors. Position Overview We are seeking a Senior Java API Engineer (contractor) to support and enhance a REST-based API platform that powers native iOS and Android mobile applications. This role focuses on maintaining and improving backend services built using Java and the Micronaut framework within an Azure-hosted environment while collaborating closely with cross-functional engineering teams. Successful candidates will demonstrate solid backend engineering skills, sound technical judgment, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced consulting environment. This position plays a critical role in ensuring the reliability, scalability, and continued evolution of client-facing mobile application services.

Responsibilities

Maintain and enhance Java-based REST APIs that support native mobile applications across iOS and Android platforms Develop new backend features and integrations while ensuring system reliability, scalability, and performance Troubleshoot and resolve production issues across application, API, and infrastructure layers Collaborate with mobile developers, QA engineers, project managers, and client stakeholders to deliver technical solutions aligned with business requirements Participate in architecture and technical design discussions related to backend services and API development Monitor application health, identify performance bottlenecks, and implement improvements to optimize system stability Develop new backend features and integrations using Java and the Micronaut framework while ensuring system reliability, scalability, and performance Collaborate with client engineering teams to support integrations involving Micronaut-based backend services and enterprise middleware platforms Contribute to CI/CD processes, deployment activities, and operational best practices within an Azure-hosted environment Participate in on-call support rotations and assist with incident response and root cause analysis as needed Write clean, maintainable, and well-documented code following established engineering standards and best practices Conduct code reviews and provide technical mentorship to other developers on the team Collaborate with client engineering teams to support integrations involving custom middleware platforms and backend services Stay informed on emerging backend engineering trends, security practices, and API development standards

Requirements

Must be a U.S. citizen and currently based in the United States, and authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship Ideal working hours are 11am - 8pm EDT (includes a one-hour lunch break), however starting between 9am - 12pm EDT will also be considered Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering, or a related technical field, or equivalent professional experience 5+ years of professional software engineering experience with a focus on Java backend development Experience developing and maintaining RESTful APIs in enterprise or production environments Experience working with cloud-hosted applications, preferably within Microsoft Azure environments Sound understanding of backend application architecture, API security, authentication, and integration patterns Experience troubleshooting and supporting distributed applications in production environments Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, source control systems, and modern software delivery practices Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams in Agile or iterative development environments Experience working with the Micronaut framework or similar modern Java frameworks such as Spring Boot Must be comfortable working in environments where the use of AI-assisted coding tools may be restricted due to client security or compliance requirements Ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities in a consulting or client-services environment Experience supporting mobile application backend services is strongly preferred Experience mentoring developers and participating in technical design discussions is preferred Compensation $80.00 - $90.00 USD per hour Base compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors including skills, education, certifications, geographic location, and overall experience for the role Inclusivity without exception | At Mindgrub we value and encourage mutual respect and acceptance. We know we all have something to contribute. We work every day to ensure all are welcome, and that we treat all people with fairness and dignity. No phone calls or recruiters, please. #LI-Remote