Software Engineer Lead - Java/Spring Boot/Kafka

Position OverviewAt PNC, our people are our greatest differentiator and competitive advantage in the markets we serve. We are all united in delivering the best experience for our customers. We work together each day to foster an inclusive workplace culture where all of our employees feel respected, valued and have an opportunity to contribute to the company’s success. As Software Engineer Lead within PNC's Technology organization, you will be based in Pittsburgh PA.PNC is an in-office company that fosters a supportive culture where employees can thrive and achieve balance. We encourage candidates to connect with their recruiter and hiring manager to understand workplace expectations and ensure the role aligns with their goals. PNC will not provide sponsorship for employment visas or participate in STEM OPT for this position.Job DescriptionDeep expertise in Java, Spring Boot, microservices architecture, and event-driven systems using Kafka, with the ability to influence technical direction and mentor junior engineers.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign, develop, and maintain enterprise-grade Java applications, primarily focused on backend servicesBuild and support microservices-based architectures using Spring BootDevelop event-driven solutions leveraging Kafka for high-throughput, low-latency messagingCollaborate with product managers, architects, and other engineers to translate business requirements into technical solutionsContribute to system design, code reviews, and technical decision-making to ensure quality, scalability, and performanceWrite clean, well-tested, and maintainable code following PNC engineering standards and best practicesTroubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues in development and production environmentsMentor and provide technical guidance to less experienced engineersParticipate in Agile ceremonies and contribute to continuous improvement effortsPreferred SkillsStrong Java full-stack experience with a primary focus on backend developmentExtensive experience with Spring Boot and RESTful API developmentHands-on experience designing and implementing microservices architecturesExperience with Apache Kafka or similar event-streaming platformsSolid understanding of object-oriented design, data structures, and software design patternsExperience working in Agile development environmentsStrong problem-solving skills and attention to detailNice to Have Skills:Experience working with MongoDB or other NoSQL databasesBasic to moderate experience with HTML and CSS for front-end developmentExposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or similar)Experience in regulated or large-scale enterprise environments (financial services a plus)PNC Employees take pride in our reputation and to continue building upon that we expect our employees to be:Customer Focused - Knowledgeable of the values and practices that align customer needs and satisfaction as primary considerations in all business decisions and able to leverage that information in creating customized customer solutions.Managing Risk - Assessing and effectively managing all of the risks associated with their business objectives and activities to ensure they adhere to and support PNC's Enterprise Risk Management Framework.QualificationsSuccessful candidates must demonstrate appropriate knowledge, skills, and abilities for a role. Listed below are skills, competencies, work experience, education, and required certifications/licensures needed to be successful in this position.Preferred SkillsApache Kafka, Application Development, Business Management, Customer Solutions, Design, Group Problem Solving, Java (Programming Language), Process Improvements, Release Management, Software Solutions, Spring Boot, Team Lead Experience, User Experience (UX) DesignCompetenciesApplication Delivery Process, Application Design, Architecture, Application Development Tools, Application Testing, Packaged Application Integration, System Development Life Cycle, Technical TroubleshootingWork ExperienceRoles at this level typically require a university / college degree, with 3+ years of relevant / direct industry experience. Certifications are often desired. In lieu of a degree, a comparable combination of education, job specific certification(s), and experience (including military service) may be considered.EducationBachelorsCertificationsNo Required Certification(s)LicensesNo Required License(s)BenefitsPNC offers a comprehensive range of benefits to help meet your needs now and in the future. Depending on your eligibility, options for full-time employees include: medical/prescription drug coverage (with a Health Savings Account feature), dental and vision options; employee and spouse/child life insurance; short and long-term disability protection; 401(k) with PNC match, pension and stock purchase plans; dependent care reimbursement account; back-up child/elder care; adoption, surrogacy, and doula reimbursement; educational assistance, including select programs fully paid; a robust wellness program with financial incentives.In addition, PNC generally provides the following paid time off, depending on your eligibility: maternity and/or parental leave; up to 11 paid holidays each year; 9 occasional absence days each year, unless otherwise required by law; between 15 to 25 vacation days each year, depending on career level; and years of service.To learn more about these and other programs, including benefits for full time and part-time employees, visit pncthrive.com.Disability Accommodations StatementIf an accommodation is required to participate in the application process, please contact us via email at AccommodationRequest@pnc.com. Please include “accommodation request” in the subject line title and be sure to include your name, the job ID, and your preferred method of contact in the body of the email. Emails not related to accommodation requests will not receive responses.  Applicants may also call 877-968-7762 and say "Workday" for accommodation assistance.