Java \& Microservices Expert (Freelance/Contract)
This is a long-term opportunity for a Java \& Microservices Specialist who thrives in technically demanding environments and enjoys working across complex enterprise platforms. You'll play a key role in shaping software architecture, driving innovation, and ensuring technical excellence within a fast-paced Agile setup.
Start Date: ASAP
End Date: 31 December 2030
Experience Level: 10+ years (Expert)
Location: Brussels - 1 week onsite per month
Rate: Market rates
Overview
We're looking for an experienced Java Expert with strong knowledge of microservices architecture to join an established Agile team working on technically challenging and high-impact projects. The role involves designing, building, and maintaining scalable microservice-based applications while adhering to high standards of quality, performance, and cybersecurity.
This position suits a proactive, autonomous engineer who enjoys solving complex problems and working closely with business stakeholders to deliver user-centred solutions. The ideal person is rigorous, detail-oriented, and values thorough documentation to ensure compliance with key industry standards such as ISO 9001 (quality), ISO 27001 (security), and other relevant frameworks.
Key Responsibilities
Design, develop, and maintain Java-based applications within a microservices architecture.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary Agile/Scrum teams (Java, Angular, DevOps) to deliver scalable solutions.
Ensure all development aligns with cybersecurity best practices and internal quality standards.
Contribute to architectural discussions and take ownership of core technical decisions.
Produce clear, detailed documentation to support compliance and maintainability.
Work closely with business teams to translate functional requirements into effective technical solutions.
Share knowledge, mentor colleagues, and actively contribute to continuous improvement.
Technical Skills Required
Java (10+ years) - strong background in modern Java (Java 17+ or 21 preferred).
SpringBoot \& SpringData (2+ years) - experience in building RESTful microservices and APIs.
Microservices Architecture (2+ years) - solid understanding of distributed systems and web services (REST, JSON).
Relational Databases (5+ years) - MySQL, MariaDB, or Oracle.
JPA / Hibernate (5+ years) - ORM and persistence layer optimisation.
Unit Testing (10+ years) - JUnit 5, Mockito, PowerMock.
Build \& Version Control Tools - Maven (10+ years), Git, GitLab (2+ years).
DevOps/Containerisation - experience with OpenShift and/or Kubernetes (advantageous).
Database Migration Tools - Liquibase and/or Flyway (2+ years).
Design Patterns - deep understanding of best practices and architectural patterns.
Agile/Scrum (2+ years) - collaborative and iterative development experience.
Language Skills
English: Professional proficiency (C1 level or higher).
French and/or Dutch: Full professional fluency (C2 level or equivalent).
If you're an experienced Java \& Microservices Expert feel free to apply or send your C.V
Java \& Microservices Expert