Lead Software Engineer - Java, AWS, React.js, Kafka

Location: Chicago, IL, United States

Job Family: Software Engineering

About the Role

At JP Morgan Chase, we are at the forefront of financial services innovation, powering global markets with cutting-edge technology. As a Lead Software Engineer specializing in Java, AWS, React.js, and Kafka, you will play a pivotal role in our Chicago-based team, developing robust solutions that drive efficiency in capital markets and trading operations. This position involves leading the creation of scalable, secure applications that handle real-time financial data, ensuring seamless integration across our vast ecosystem of banking services. You will work within an agile environment, collaborating with product managers, data scientists, and fellow engineers to deliver impactful tech solutions that support our clients' needs in a highly regulated industry. Your responsibilities will span the full software development lifecycle, from architecting cloud-native applications on AWS to implementing responsive front-ends with React.js and orchestrating data streams via Kafka. You will mentor team members, conduct code reviews, and champion best practices to maintain the high standards expected at JP Morgan Chase. In the financial services sector, where precision and reliability are paramount, you will focus on building systems that comply with stringent regulations like SOX and GDPR, while optimizing for performance to handle millions of transactions daily. This role offers the opportunity to innovate in areas such as algorithmic trading and risk management, contributing directly to the firm's leadership in global finance. Joining JP Morgan Chase means becoming part of a world-class organization committed to your growth and well-being. We value diverse perspectives and foster an inclusive culture where your expertise can thrive. With access to top-tier resources, ongoing training, and a collaborative atmosphere in our state-of-the-art Chicago offices, you will advance your career while helping shape the future of banking technology. If you are passionate about leveraging Java, AWS, React.js, and Kafka to solve complex challenges in fintech, this is your chance to lead transformative projects at one of the world's most influential financial institutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy critical software solutions using Java, AWS, React.js, and Kafka to support financial trading platforms
• Collaborate with cross-functional agile teams to deliver high-quality tech solutions across multiple technical domains
• Lead code reviews, mentor junior engineers, and ensure adherence to best practices in secure, scalable software development
• Integrate real-time data pipelines using Kafka to handle high-volume financial transactions and market data
• Build responsive user interfaces with React.js to enhance client-facing applications in the financial services sector
• Optimize AWS cloud infrastructure for cost-efficiency and performance in a regulated banking environment
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues in production systems, minimizing downtime for global financial operations
• Contribute to innovation in fintech by exploring emerging technologies aligned with JP Morgan Chase's strategic goals
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and internal security protocols in all development activities
• Participate in sprint planning, retrospectives, and continuous improvement initiatives within the agile framework

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
• 7+ years of professional software engineering experience with Java
• Strong experience with AWS cloud services and infrastructure
• Proficiency in React.js for building scalable front-end applications
• Hands-on experience with Apache Kafka for real-time data streaming
• Proven track record in agile methodologies and team collaboration
• Experience in financial services or high-stakes regulatory environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Computer Science or related field
• Experience with microservices architecture and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes)
• Knowledge of financial regulations such as GDPR, SOX, or PCI-DSS
• Previous work in capital markets or trading systems at a major bank
• Certifications in AWS (e.g., AWS Certified Developer) or Java (e.g., Oracle Certified Professional)

Required Skills

• Java programming (core and advanced features)
• AWS services (EC2, S3, Lambda, RDS)
• React.js and modern JavaScript frameworks
• Apache Kafka for event-driven architectures
• Microservices design and RESTful APIs
• Agile/Scrum methodologies
• SQL and NoSQL databases (e.g., PostgreSQL, MongoDB)
• Containerization with Docker and orchestration with Kubernetes
• Version control with Git and CI/CD pipelines
• Problem-solving and debugging in high-pressure environments
• Communication and collaboration in team settings
• Knowledge of financial data protocols and security
• Performance optimization and scalability techniques
• Unit testing frameworks (JUnit, Jest)
• Adaptability to fast-paced fintech innovations

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and performance-based annual bonuses
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with generous company matching
• Paid time off including vacation, sick days, and parental leave
• Professional development programs and tuition reimbursement
• Employee stock purchase plan and financial wellness resources
• On-site fitness centers and wellness programs at Chicago offices
• Flexible hybrid work arrangements with remote options

JP Morgan Chase is an equal opportunity employer.