Software Developer (Java/C++)
About this role
Software Developer (Java/C++)
Salary: Up to £78,000 P/A (Dependent on experience)
Location: Cheltenham, UK
Status: Full-Time
Experience: Mid-Level
Posted: August 10, 2026
Role Overview
Bridge Staffing Agency is partnering with an innovative specialist in cyber test ranges to recruit an experienced Software Developer. In this role, you will design, develop, and maintain high-performance backend software solutions using Java and C++ within Linux environments. You will collaborate closely with customers and internal teams to translate complex requirements into robust, scalable architectures. Acting as a technical leader within the team, you will mentor junior developers, drive architectural decisions, and champion code quality, automation, and best practices.
Note: Due to the secure nature of this work, candidates must hold a valid SC (Security Clearance) at the time of application.
Key Responsibilities
Design, develop, and maintain high-performance backend software using Java and C++ in Linux environments.
Lead technical design and implementation for software components, services, and APIs.
Write robust, maintainable, and well-tested code with an emphasis on performance, scalability, and security.
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior and mid-level software engineers.
Contribute to architectural decision-making, technical strategy, and product roadmaps.
Conduct rigorous code reviews to ensure adherence to engineering standards and best practices.
Troubleshoot and resolve complex software defects, third-party dependencies, and customer libraries.
Build and maintain RESTful APIs, microservices, and distributed applications.
Utilize static analysis, profiling, debugging tools, and Docker containerization to ensure high quality and smooth deployment.
Contribute to CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps workflows using Git, Bitbucket, or GitLab.
Required Skills & Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent commercial experience (5+ years developing in Java and/or C++).
Strong background in Linux environments with a solid grasp of software architecture, design patterns, and object-oriented programming.
Proven experience building enterprise-scale backend applications, APIs, and distributed systems.
Strong understanding of multithreaded, concurrent application development and performance optimization.
Familiarity with relational/NoSQL databases, containerization (Docker), and CI/CD tools (Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD, Azure DevOps).
Solid version control experience using Git.
Experience working in Agile software development environments.
Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
General Requirements
Occasional UK travel for team or customer meetings, events, and training activities.
Commitment to continuous professional development and completion of mandatory training.
Undertake supplementary duties commensurate with the role to support smooth business operations.
Full compliance with organizational standards concerning security, privacy, and ethics.
Salary & Benefits
Base Salary: Up to £78,000 per annum, dependent on experience.
Time to Recharge: 25 days of annual leave plus all bank holidays.
Health First: AXA Healthcare coverage* and a Cycle to Work scheme.
Green Travel: Company EV Car Scheme*.
Future Planning: Secure company pension contributions.
Continuous Growth: Dedicated training package and budget, alongside structured career advancement.