Lead Backend Engineer (Gaming & Entertainment Projects)

The Role

We’re looking for a Lead Backend Engineer to guide our backend team, evolve our PlayTwo framework, and deliver reliable systems for global-scale interactive projects.

This is a role for someone who wants to stay hands-on with code while also taking responsibility for team leadership, architecture, and technical direction. You’ll:

• Develop and maintain core backend systems in Java/Spring Boot, ensuring they can handle high concurrency and peak traffic loads.
• Lead and mentor a team of six backend engineers, reviewing code, setting best practices, and supporting their growth.
• Evolve PlayTwo, ensuring the framework remains scalable, efficient, and ready for new client use cases.
• Define and implement backend architecture, making choices that balance performance, reliability, and flexibility.
• Support project delivery by scoping work, aligning with project managers, frontend developers, and infrastructure engineers to ensure timely, high-quality delivery.
• Contribute to client conversations, explaining technical solutions and providing input during sales and scoping discussions.
• Explore new technologies relevant to interactive media and gaming, bringing fresh ideas to future projects.

What We’re Looking For

• 6+ years of backend development experience, including time in a lead or senior role.
• Strong background in Java (21+), Spring Boot, MongoDB, and experience with AWS.
• Solid understanding of NoSQL database design and optimization.
• Experience designing and scaling distributed systems and APIs for high-concurrency, real-time use cases.
• Proven ability to lead and mentor engineering teams, balancing leadership with hands-on coding.
• Experience with large-scale platforms and real-time interactive systems is a strong plus.
• Comfortable joining client calls and clearly explaining technical approaches to non-technical stakeholders.
• Curiosity about emerging technologies (AI/LLM, cloud-native systems, real-time frameworks).

Why Join Us

• Work on projects used by millions of people worldwide in gaming, streaming, and entertainment.
• Take ownership of PlayTwo, the core framework behind all our client work.
• Lead a talented backend team while continuing to code and shape architecture yourself.
• Be part of a company where your work is visible on a global stage and reliability really matters.
• Enjoy a hybrid work schedule with a collaborative Amsterdam office culture.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Amsterdam Noord (NDSM): Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work

Experience:

• Java (21+), Spring Boot: 6 years (Preferred)

Language: