Java Technical Lead Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of technology, the role of Java Technical Leads has become increasingly prominent.
As technology continues to evolve, the demand for skilled leaders who can create, enhance, and protect our Java-based digital infrastructure grows stronger.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Java Technical Lead?
Whether you are:
- A professional seeking to understand the crux of this role,
- A recruiter trying to outline the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the complexities of Java development,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a versatile Java Technical Lead job description template, created for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Java Technical Lead Duties and Responsibilities
Java Technical Leads are primarily responsible for overseeing the development of software applications using the Java programming language.
They must be experts in Java but also have a strong understanding of the principles of software engineering and the lifecycle of software development.
Their duties and responsibilities often include:
- Leading a team of Java developers and guiding them in developing, testing, and debugging Java applications
- Conducting software analysis, programming, testing, and debugging to ensure applications meet client or business requirements
- Designing, implementing, and maintaining Java application phases
- Identifying and analyzing user requirements to define project objectives
- Developing technical designs for application development
- Ensuring designs are in compliance with specifications
- Interacting with stakeholders to understand their problems and needs
- Collaborating with other teams to integrate new features and improvements
- Performing code reviews to ensure code quality and performance
- Maintaining and updating project documentation
- Developing software solutions by studying information needs, systems flow, data usage, and work processes while adhering to the software development lifecycle
- Continually updating technical knowledge and skills by attending workshops, reviewing professional publications, maintaining personal networks, and participating in professional societies
Java Technical Lead Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking an experienced Java Technical Lead to manage and guide our development team.
Your responsibilities will include overseeing the development process, executing the full software development life cycle, coding in Java, and troubleshooting any technical issues.
The ideal candidate should be familiar with software development methodologies and possess excellent Java coding skills.
The goal will be to ensure the development of high-quality, innovative, and fully performing software in compliance with coding standards and technical design.
Responsibilities
- Execute full software development life cycle (SDLC)
- Lead and manage the development team, including assigning tasks and monitoring progress
- Code complex parts of the software, ensuring it’s robust and scalable
- Produce specifications and determine operational feasibility
- Integrate software components into a fully functional software system
- Develop software verification plans and quality assurance procedures
- Document and maintain software functionality
- Troubleshoot, debug and upgrade existing systems
- Comply with project plans and industry standards
- Ensure software is updated with latest features
- Interface with clients on technical matters and software requirements
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as a Java Technical Lead or similar role
- Strong experience with Java and Java frameworks
- Excellent knowledge of relational databases, SQL and ORM technologies (JPA2, Hibernate)
- Experience developing web applications using popular web frameworks (JSF, Wicket, GWT, Spring MVC)
- Experience with test-driven development
- Proficiency in software engineering tools
- Ability to document requirements and specifications
- BSc degree in Computer Science, Engineering or a relevant field; MSc degree will be a plus
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Java Technical Lead
- Work Environment: This is an office-based role with remote work options. Some travel may be required for team meetings or client consultations.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Software Development Manager or Director of Engineering.
- Salary: Compensation is commensurate with experience, qualifications, and market trends.
- Pay Range: Depending on experience and skills
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Java Technical Lead Do?
Java Technical Leads typically work for software companies or as part of the IT department in various industries.
They can also work as independent consultants or contractors.
Their primary responsibility is to guide the development team in designing, coding, and testing software applications built using Java.
They are experts in Java programming and use their skills to develop high-quality, efficient, and maintainable code.
Java Technical Leads work closely with Project Managers and Business Analysts to understand the client’s requirements and translate them into technical specifications.
They are responsible for choosing the appropriate Java frameworks and technologies to use in the project, ensuring they meet the client’s needs and project deadlines.
They play a key role in code reviews, providing constructive feedback to other developers to maintain code quality.
Java Technical Leads also mentor junior developers, helping them improve their Java programming skills.
Java Technical Leads often troubleshoot and debug complex issues in the software, ensuring it performs optimally.
They may also be responsible for refining past designs to address new requirements or fix defects.
In addition to their technical duties, they often coordinate with other teams, such as Quality Assurance and Support, to ensure smooth deployment and maintenance of the software.
They often act as a bridge between the technical team and non-technical stakeholders, explaining technical concepts in an understandable way.
Java Technical Lead Qualifications and Skills
A Java Technical Lead should possess a mix of technical knowledge, leadership skills, and industry experience.
The skills and qualifications for this role include:
- Deep understanding and proficiency in Java and its associated technologies, like J2EE, JDBC, Servlets, JSP, Spring, Hibernate, etc.
- Experience in designing, developing, and deploying software solutions using Java technologies.
- Strong problem-solving skills to effectively troubleshoot and resolve complex software issues.
- Leadership skills to guide and mentor a team of software developers, ensuring efficient project execution.
- Excellent communication skills for coordinating with team members, stakeholders, and clients to ensure that project requirements are clearly understood and met.
- Experience in agile methodologies like Scrum or Kanban to deliver high-quality software in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
- Expertise in application servers like Tomcat, JBoss, or WebSphere and databases like MySQL, Oracle, or PostgreSQL.
- Strong analytical skills for understanding business requirements and translating them into technical specifications.
- Experience with software versioning and revision control systems like Git or SVN.
- Knowledge of software testing principles and experience in writing unit tests using frameworks like JUnit.
Java Technical Lead Experience Requirements
Java Technical Lead candidates should ideally have a minimum of 5-7 years of professional experience in software development, with a significant portion of this time spent working with Java-based technologies.
This role often requires at least 3-4 years of experience in a senior developer or team lead role, demonstrating the ability to guide and mentor a team of junior developers.
Candidates should have experience in planning, coordinating, and supervising all activities related to the design, development, and implementation of Java applications and services.
Candidates should also have experience in various Java frameworks such as Spring, Hibernate, or Struts, and should be familiar with various programming paradigms, such as object-oriented programming and functional programming.
Experience with different development methodologies like Agile or Scrum, alongside proficiency with DevOps tools like Jenkins, Docker, or Kubernetes, is highly desirable.
Additionally, those with experience in cloud platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure, and database technologies like SQL or NoSQL databases, are often preferred.
Java Technical Leads should also have a proven track record of managing the complete software development lifecycle, from understanding the project requirements, through the design and development stages, to testing and deployment.
Finally, they should have excellent communication skills and experience collaborating with various stakeholders, such as project managers, product owners, and other technical teams.
Java Technical Lead Education and Training Requirements
Java Technical Leads typically hold a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering or a related field.
Advanced knowledge of Java and its related technologies is a key requirement for this role.
Therefore, a specialization or certification in Java can be extremely beneficial.
In addition to Java, they need proficiency in related tools and technologies such as J2EE, Hibernate, Spring, SQL, and others.
Work experience in software development and team leadership is also crucial, with some employers requiring a minimum of five to seven years in the field.
Some positions, especially those in complex or specialized industries, may require a master’s degree in a specific IT discipline or a MBA with a focus on technology management.
Completing advanced courses or certifications in project management, Agile methodologies, and other leadership or technical skills can boost a candidate’s prospects and demonstrate their commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
Furthermore, a Java Technical Lead should have strong communication and problem-solving skills, and the ability to guide and mentor a team of software developers.
Java Technical Lead Salary Expectations
The average salary for a Java Technical Lead is $117,722 (USD) per year.
The actual income can vary based on factors such as experience, specific technical skills, the company, and geographic location.
Java Technical Lead Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Java Technical Lead need?
A Java Technical Lead needs advanced knowledge and experience in Java and its associated frameworks.
They should have strong leadership skills to manage and guide a team of developers.
They also need excellent problem-solving skills to troubleshoot complex software issues, and analytical skills to understand project requirements and ensure they are met.
Good communication and interpersonal skills are also important as they will need to collaborate with other teams, stakeholders, and clients.
Do Java Technical Leads need a degree?
Most Java Technical Leads hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field.
Some employers may require a master’s degree or a certain number of years of experience in lieu of a degree.
They also require proficiency in Java, so relevant certifications can be a plus.
What should you look for in a Java Technical Lead’s resume?
Check for a solid background in Java and related technologies, with demonstrated experience in leading and managing software development projects.
Look for knowledge and experience in various frameworks and tools commonly used in Java development.
Certifications in Java can also be a plus.
Additionally, look for soft skills like problem-solving, analytical thinking, leadership, and communication.
What qualities make a good Java Technical Lead?
A good Java Technical Lead has a deep understanding of Java and its associated technologies.
They are natural leaders who can guide and inspire their team.
They are analytical thinkers who can solve complex problems and make sound decisions under pressure.
They also have excellent communication skills, allowing them to effectively coordinate with their team, stakeholders, and clients.
Is it difficult to hire a Java Technical Lead?
Hiring a Java Technical Lead can be challenging due to the specific combination of technical expertise and leadership skills required for the role.
Employers may have to offer competitive salaries, opportunities for career growth, and a positive work environment to attract top talent.
Additionally, the selection process can be lengthy as it involves evaluating the technical competence as well as the leadership ability of candidates.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of what being a Java Technical Lead truly entails.
Surprise, surprise!
It’s not just about coding in Java.
It’s about leading and shaping the path towards digital innovation, one Java code at a time.
Armed with our definitive Java Technical Lead job description template and practical examples, you’re ready for your next career leap.
But why limit yourself?
Go beyond with our job description generator. This is your stepping stone to creating meticulously tailored job listings or honing your resume to absolute precision.
Remember:
Every Java code written is a step towards a more advanced future.
Let’s architect that future. Together.
Reasons to Become a Java Technical Lead (Spearhead Tech Projects)
How to Become a Java Technical Lead (Complete Guide)
Disadvantages of Being a Java Technical Lead (Team-Taming Trials)
Adventurous Occupations: Unusual Jobs That Are Far From Mundane
Job Juggernauts: The Careers That Are Dominating Discussions
Work Doesn’t Have to Be a Drag: Enjoyable Jobs That Pay Well
The Brutal Truth Behind the Most Stressful Careers in the World!