Contract Java Developer Banking Jobs in San Diego, CA

The Senior Lead Software Developer is responsible for the design, development, modification, and maintenance of complex applications using a variety of programming languages, with an emphasis on Java, JavaScript, C#, and SQL. Works with a high degree of autonomy to deliver scalable, secure, and efficient solutions aligned with business objectives.

This position provides technical leadership, mentorship, and direct supervision to software development staff. This role plays a critical part in setting development standards, guiding architectural decisions, and ensuring the successful execution of projects.

Participates in all aspects of the software development lifecycle, including system analysis, design, development, testing, deployment, and ongoing support. Ensures adherence to project timelines, coding standards, and quality expectations while supporting innovation and continuous improvement.

About Frontwave Credit Union:

Frontwave Credit Union is a member-owned not-for-profit financial institution serving San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino and Imperial counties. Founded in 1952, we have grown to 18 branches with 125,000 members and manage over 1.8 billion in assets. At Frontwave Credit Union, we are focused on creating consumer solutions to provide our members and the communities we serve with products and services that enhance the quality of life for our members through exceptional service and the progressive application of technology.

What’s In It For You:
Competitive pay, 401k matching, mortgage and auto discounts.
9-27 days of PTO per year (based on tenure), VTO and 11 paid holidays.
Affordable medical, dental, vision health plans, and Flexible Spending Account.
Employee Assistance Program with a variety of services.
Career development, training, and coaching, mentoring; tuition reimbursement up to $4,000/year.
Culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
We strive to be the best place you’ve ever worked!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Includes the following non-inclusive list. Other duties may be assigned. All duties are to be performed in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and Credit Union policies and procedures.

LEADERSHIP AND SUPERVISION

• Provide direct supervision, guidance, and performance feedback to software development staff
• Mentor and develop team members, including code reviews, technical coaching, and career development support
• Assist in workload prioritization, resource planning, and project assignments
• Promote adherence to development standards, best practices, and organizational policies
• Foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment

SYSTEM ANALYSIS

• Lead the analysis, design, and implementation of complex technical solutions
• Translate business requirements into scalable, secure software designs
• Collaorate with business units, stakeholders, and leadership to define technical strategies
• Establish and monitor project milestones, timelines, and deliverables
• Evaluate and recommend improvements to internal processes and applications
• Ensure solutions align with enterprise architecture and long-term strategic goals
• Create and maintain advanced technical documentation

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE

• Design, develop, test, deploy, and support high-quality custom software across:
• Core banking systems
• Web applications and APIs
• Middleware and integrations
• Lead design and architecture decisions, ensuring scalability, security, and maintainability
• Develop and optimize databases, queries, and data structures with awareness of production impact
• Implement and oversee secure coding practices and data protection standards
• Oversee and contribute to debugging, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis
• Leverage modern development tools, frameworks, and methodologies to improve delivery

AI-ENABLED DEVELOPMENT

• Utilize AI-assisted coding tools (e.g., Claude Code, Cursor, GitHub Copilot, or similar) to enhance developer productivity and code quality while also adhering to the organization’s AI policies and governance
• Evaluate and implement emerging AI technologies to improve development workflows and efficiency
• Establish best practices for responsible and secure use of AI tools in software development
• Mentor team members in effective use of AI-assisted development techniques

At least 6 years of professional software development experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering or related discipline, or equivalent experience

Demonstrated experience developing integration solutions with Microsoft Azure Integration Services, including Logic Apps, Azure Functions, Data Factory and API Management
Strong experience designing and implementing scalable software solutions
Experience in web development (JavaScript, HTML5, modern frameworks)
Experience supervising or mentoring software developers strongly preferred
Experience within financial services or core banking platforms (e.g., Corelation KeyStone) is a plus
Previous experience with Corelation KeyStone is a plus.

Additional Skills, Knowledge and Experience:                                                           
KNOWLEDGE:

• Advanced proficiency in one or more programming languages such as Java, C#, C++, or similar
• Proficiency in translating complex business requirements into technical solutions with minimal guidance
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Azure Integration Services
• Familiarity with Event-Driven Architectures (EDA) and Enterprise Integration Patterns.
• Strong knowledge of relational databases and SQL
• Proficiency with version control systems (e.g., GitHub)
• Working knowledge of system architecture, application security, and data privacy
• Familiarity with modern development practices, including CI/CD and automated testing (preferred)

SKILLS:

• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities
• Highly detail-oriented with a focus on quality and precision
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Excellent communication skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Ability to drive projects to completion with ownership and accountability
• Demonstrated ability to influence technical direction and team outcomes

Salary Range: $44.57 - $66.85