Backend Engineer (Java)

About The Company

IPPEN.MEDIA is a pioneering media organization dedicated to fostering independent, pluralistic, and future-proof local journalism in Germany. As part of its innovative approach, IPPEN.MEDIA integrates cutting-edge technology to enhance the quality and efficiency of journalistic workflows. The company operates within a highly interconnected media ecosystem, emphasizing digital transformation and technological advancement. Its core mission is to ensure that quality journalism not only survives amidst the dominance of global algorithms but also remains technologically superior. IPPEN.MEDIA is committed to creating a dynamic environment that combines startup agility with a strong passion for digital journalism, located in the heart of Munich. The organization values innovation, collaboration, and continuous growth, offering employees the opportunity to shape the future of media in Germany.

About The Role

We are seeking a skilled Java Backend Engineer (m/w/d) to join our innovative development team at IPPEN.MEDIA. In this role, you will be instrumental in advancing our new product, USER.ID, which forms a central part of our publishing platform. Your responsibilities will include designing, developing, and optimizing microservices within a cloud-based Kubernetes environment on AWS. You will work within an agile, cross-functional team, contributing your technical expertise to build scalable, secure, and efficient backend solutions. The role also involves technical coordination within your team and across departments, ensuring seamless integration and deployment of new features. As a key member of our engineering team, you will share your knowledge with colleagues, mentor junior developers, and participate in the ongoing evolution of our platform. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the digital press landscape in Germany and be part of a forward-thinking company dedicated to technological excellence and journalistic integrity.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess a relevant university degree in computer science or a comparable qualification, with at least five years of professional experience in Java and Java EE development. Deep understanding of OAuth2, OIDC, and secure handling of JWT tokens is essential. Practical experience with identity providers such as Keycloak, along with a solid grasp of microservice architecture and best practices in software design, is required. Candidates should be proficient in working with relational databases, REST APIs (OpenAPI), Kubernetes, Kibana, and Grafana. Familiarity with unit and integration testing frameworks like JUnit 5, Mockito, and Spring Tests is also necessary. Fluency in German and good command of English are required for effective communication and team integration. A proactive attitude, problem-solving skills, and a passion for continuous learning are highly valued.

Responsibilities

• Develop and enhance USER.ID, our new product integral to our publishing platform, ensuring it meets high standards of quality and performance.
• Design, implement, and optimize microservice architecture within an AWS-based Kubernetes environment, ensuring scalability and security.
• Collaborate actively within an agile, cross-functional team, contributing technical expertise and innovative solutions.
• Take on technical coordination tasks within your team and across departments to facilitate smooth development and deployment processes.
• Participate in the reconstruction and ongoing development of significant parts of our publishing platform, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• Share knowledge and best practices with colleagues, mentoring junior developers to foster a collaborative learning environment.
  
  

Benefits

• Participation in regular company events and a flat hierarchy fostering transparency and open communication.
• Supportive benefits including a cafeteria subsidy, company pension scheme, and bike leasing options.
• Access to corporate benefits such as employee discounts and flexible working arrangements, including the possibility to work abroad temporarily.
• Generous holiday allowance of 30 days, along with flexible working hours and opportunities for sabbaticals.
• Structured onboarding, ongoing coaching, and access to the IPPEN.MEDIA Academy for continuous professional development.
• A respectful and collaborative work environment with motivated colleagues committed to innovation and excellence.
• A modern office located in the heart of Munich, supporting a hybrid work model that balances in-office and remote work.
• The chance to contribute actively to the future of independent journalism in Germany, making a meaningful impact through your work.
  
  

Equal Opportunity

IPPEN.MEDIA is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe that diverse teams foster innovation and creativity, and we are dedicated to providing equal opportunities for all applicants and employees.