We are seeking a Lead Java Software Engineer (GenAI) to spearhead the modernization of a legacy enterprise platform, transitioning it from a frozen on-premises stack into a cloud-native architecture. In this role, you will combine deep technical expertise in IBM legacy systems with modern cloud and AI-assisted engineering practices, leading a team to maximize output from AI tools while migrating frontend logic to React and backend services to Spring Boot.

Kindly note that this role supports remote work, but only from within Ukraine.

Responsibilities

Lead the retirement of legacy lock-in and the migration of the platform into the cloud
Drive the upgrade of Java to version 25 and the decoupling of frontend and backend systems
Migrate frontend logic to React and backend services to Spring Boot
Dive deep into legacy systems, including WebSphere and AIX, to support modernization efforts
Orchestrate AI agents, skills, and human-in-the-loop responsibilities across the team
Set up scalable AI tooling and practices to uplift team-level capability
Mentor the team on how to maximize output from AI tools and teach them "how to fish"
Apply AI across the full SDLC beyond individual productivity gains
Guide the team on "what good looks like" through hands-on development and architecture
Champion a DevSecOps mindset to keep the project self-sufficient using established best practices
Follow Spec-Driven Development throughout the engineering process

Requirements

6+ years of experience in software engineering, with 1+ years in a leading capacity
Strong background in IBM on-premises technologies, such as WebSphere and AIX, or other legacy stacks
Expertise in cloud-native applications, AWS Cloud, and Spring Boot
Proficiency in Java 8 and modern Java versions
Skills in AI-assisted engineering, including orchestrating AI agents, skills, and human-in-the-loop workflows
Hands-on capability as a developer and architect with deep coding and architecture understanding
Experience applying AI across the SDLC, setting up scalable AI tooling, and creating team-level capability uplift
Understanding of DevSecOps practices
Openness to dive deep into legacy systems without hesitation
English level: B2+

Nice to have

Familiarity with Spec-Driven Development
Flexibility to use Claude, GitHub Copilot, and Cursor
Background in GWT and GXT

We offer

With us you can:
- Work on a flexible schedule remotely or from any of our comfortable offices or coworking spaces in Ukraine
- Receive the necessary equipment to perform your work tasks
- Change projects and technology stacks within EPAM
- Gain experience in various business domains (Insurance, E-commerce, Healthcare, Finance, Travelling, Media, Artificial Intelligence, and more)
- Relocation opportunities may be available for eligible candidates, depending on the role and openings at other EPAM locations
- Participate in volunteer, charity programs and communities (both technical and interest-based)
We focus on your professional growth:
- You can plan your individual career path together with your manager
- Receive regular feedback from colleagues
- Improve your English for free with certified teachers (Speaking Clubs, client interview preparation courses, etc.)
- Get the opportunity to undergo free training and certification in AWS, GCP, or Azure Clouds
- Use the internal E-learn training program (18,200+ specialized training and mentoring programs)
- Access corporate accounts on LinkedIn Learning, Get Abstract and other partner resources
- Study at EPAM Solution Architecture School with the instructors who are practicing architects
- Develop as a leader, join Delivery Management, Resource Management, Leadership Essentials school and more
- Participate in internal communities (500+ meetups, technical discussions, brainstorming sessions, online events and conferences annually)
What we offer:
- Vacation and sick leave (including a sick leave without a medical certificate)
- A wide range of Voluntary Medical Insurance programs providing both medical treatment and various preventive options (including sports activities)
- Medical insurance for family members at corporate rates
- Company support during significant life events (childbirth or adoption, marriage, etc.)
- Support for psychological comfort: discounts on services from mental health specialists or coaches, thematic training
- E-kids program - a free programming language training program for EPAMers' children

Kindly be advised that the set of benefits, including learning, certification, and other opportunities, may vary depending on the role you apply for. Our recruiter will be able to share more details about the specific opportunity during your general interview.

EPAM strives to provide its global team of over 62,350 professionals in more than 55 countries with opportunities for professional growth from day one of collaboration. Our colleagues are the source of EPAM's success, so we value cooperation, strive to always understand our clients' business and aim for the highest quality standards. No matter where you are, you will join a dedicated, diverse community that will help you realize your potential to the fullest.