Staff Engineer (Java)

Staff Engineer (Java)Contract to Hire4 days onsite - Wilmington DE, Urbandale, IA or Manassas, VA The selected Staff Engineer is a senior individual contributor role focused on designing and scaling enterprise engineering solutions. This role is responsible for leading API-first architecture initiatives, defining best practices, and guiding the evolution of software systems across multiple subsidiaries. The position balances hands-on development with strategic architectural leadership, ensuring long-term scalability, maintainability, and integration across a complex application ecosystem. Core ResponsibilitiesDesign and implement scalable API architectures and integration patterns across multiple applications and business units.Lead code reviews ensuring adherence to architectural patterns, best practices, and API governance.Solve complex business and technical challenges leveraging modern and legacy technologies.Contribute to system documentation and define standards for reusable components and services.Partner with stakeholders and subsidiaries to define strategic technology directions and system evolution.Ability to mentor junior team members.Approximate Focus:API architecture & design – 35%Solving complex enterprise challenges – 35%Code review and enforcement of architectural patterns – 25%Mentoring and documentation – 10% Other DutiesPromote innovation and challenge established norms.Identify and reduce technical debt in both code and processes.Ensure product quality through attention to security, performance, and observability.Test, approve, and refine software solutions; provide consultation for solving business problems leveraging current technology.Provide occasional production system support as part of a rotating on-call schedule.Travel required: ~5–10%. Education & Experience RequirementsBachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience.7+ years of experience in Java (preferred) or object-oriented programming.3+ years of API architecture or system integration experience. Rest API.2+ years of experience working in an agile environment, delivering iteratively.Demonstrated ability to design scalable systems and make architectural decisions for complex enterprise ecosystems.Experience mentoring junior developers and influencing technical direction.Strong communication skills to translate complex technical ideas into actionable implementation requirements.Proven track record of solving complex business challenges through technology.Ability to operate independently in a fast-paced environment and thrive under ambiguity. Qualifications / Key AttributesDeep understanding of API-first design principles and scalable enterprise architecture.Proficiency in Java and object-oriented programming with modern development frameworks.Experience with integration across multiple systems and legacy modernization projects.Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, able to evaluate trade-offs and recommend solutions.Hands-on experience with software development lifecycle (SDLC) best practices.Ability to influence technical strategy and enforce architectural standards across teams.