UI Designer & Developer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UI Designer & Developer Company: Expleo Location: Bucharest, Romania Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Software Development / Engineering Operations Date Posted: August 12, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years inferred) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the design and development of enterprise-grade web applications and content management solutions, acting as a bridge between user interface design and robust backend development.
• It requires a blend of front-end expertise in React.js and back-end proficiency in Java (Spring Boot), with a specific emphasis on Sitecore CMS customization and integration.
• The position involves hands-on coding, participation in code reviews, unit testing, and performance tuning to ensure scalable, secure, and maintainable applications.
• Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including UX/UI designers, QA engineers, and product managers, is fundamental to delivering high-quality digital experiences and driving operational excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "UI Designer & Developer," the responsibilities and qualifications heavily lean towards a Senior Developer with strong front-end and Sitecore CMS capabilities. The "UI Designer" aspect seems to be more about implementing designs rather than creating them from scratch, as collaboration with UX/UI designers is explicitly mentioned. The role appears to be within a broader Engineering Operations context, focused on building and maintaining the digital platforms that support business operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and develop scalable backend services utilizing Java, specifically within the Spring Boot framework, ensuring efficient data handling and API integration.
• Build responsive, dynamic, and user-friendly front-end interfaces using React.js, adhering to modern JavaScript (ES6+) best practices and responsive design principles.
• Develop and customize Sitecore CMS components, templates, and layouts, ensuring seamless content management and delivery capabilities.
• Integrate front-end and back-end components effectively to create cohesive and functional user experiences across the application stack.
• Actively participate in code reviews, providing constructive feedback to peers and ensuring code quality, maintainability, and adherence to standards.
• Conduct unit testing and performance tuning on developed features to guarantee application stability, scalability, and optimal user experience.
• Collaborate closely with UX/UI designers to translate wireframes and mockups into functional and aesthetically pleasing user interfaces.
• Partner with QA engineers to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve technical issues, ensuring the delivery of bug-free software.
• Work with product managers to understand project requirements and deliver digital solutions that meet business objectives and enhance operational efficiency.
• Ensure the security, scalability, and maintainability of applications throughout their lifecycle, adhering to best practices and industry standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues across the entire technology stack, from the database to the user interface.
• Mentor junior developers, sharing expertise and contributing to the team's collective knowledge and skill development in areas like Java, React, and Sitecore.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a full-stack development capability with a specialization in Sitecore. The emphasis on collaboration, code reviews, testing, and mentoring suggests a senior-level role within a development team that values quality and knowledge sharing, typical in mature engineering operations environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a closely related technical field. A strong academic foundation in software development principles is expected.

Experience:

• 5-10 years of professional experience in software development, with a significant portion focused on web application development.
• Proven experience in designing, developing, and deploying enterprise-grade applications.
• Demonstrated ability to optimize application performance and ensure scalability through effective coding practices and architectural decisions.

Required Skills:

• Java Development: Expertise in Java SE and EE, including proficiency with frameworks like Spring (Spring Boot, Spring MVC) and Hibernate. Experience with building and consuming RESTful APIs is essential.
• React.js: Strong proficiency in React.js and modern JavaScript (ES6+), including state management (e.g., Redux, Context API) and component-based architecture.
• Sitecore CMS: Hands-on experience with Sitecore CMS (preferably version 10+), including component development, template creation, and customization.
• Front-end Technologies: Deep understanding of HTML5, CSS3, preprocessors like SASS/LESS, and responsive design techniques to ensure cross-browser and cross-device compatibility.
• Version Control & Methodologies: Proficiency with Git for version control and extensive experience working within Agile development methodologies (Scrum, Kanban).
• CI/CD: Familiarity with Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines and tools for automated build, test, and deployment processes.
• Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical challenges efficiently.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, enabling effective collaboration with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Preferred Skills:

• Sitecore Certifications: Holding a Sitecore Developer Certification (e.g., Sitecore XP Certified Developer) would be highly advantageous.
• Sitecore Headless: Experience with Sitecore Headless technologies such as JavaScript Services (JSS) or Sitecore Experience Accelerator (SXA) for modern decoupled implementations.
• API Technologies: Knowledge of GraphQL or other modern API technologies beyond REST for enhanced data fetching and integration.
• Cloud Platforms: Familiarity with cloud environments like Azure or AWS, including services relevant to hosting and deploying web applications.
• Containerization: Exposure to Docker and containerized deployment strategies for application packaging and management.
• DevOps Practices: Understanding and exposure to broader DevOps practices and tools that enhance development and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a senior developer profile with a strong specialization in the Java/React/Sitecore stack. The "UI Designer" aspect of the title is likely a misnomer, and candidates should focus on their development and Sitecore expertise. The preferred skills indicate a forward-looking approach to web development, including headless architecture and cloud adoption.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Code Samples: Provide links to public repositories (e.g., GitHub) showcasing your development work, particularly projects involving Java (Spring Boot), React.js, and Sitecore. Focus on clean, well-documented, and efficient code.
• Sitecore Implementations: Detailed case studies or descriptions of Sitecore projects you've worked on, highlighting your role in component development, template customization, and integration efforts. Emphasize challenges overcome and solutions implemented.
• Process Improvement Examples: Showcase instances where you've contributed to optimizing development workflows, improving application performance, or enhancing user experience through technical solutions. Quantify improvements where possible (e.g., reduced load times, increased conversion rates).
• System Integration Experience: Examples of integrating different systems or APIs, demonstrating your ability to connect various technological components seamlessly.
• Portfolio Demonstration: Be prepared to walk through specific examples from your portfolio during the interview, explaining your design choices, technical implementations, and the impact of your work on project goals.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Evidence of your ability to design and document efficient development workflows, including considerations for CI/CD, testing strategies, and deployment processes.
• Implementation & Automation: Examples of how you've implemented new features or automated repetitive tasks within the development lifecycle to improve team efficiency and reduce manual effort.
• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate how you track and analyze the performance of applications you've developed, including metrics related to user engagement, load times, and system stability. Be ready to discuss how you use this data to drive further optimizations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role involving Sitecore and enterprise applications, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of skills, particularly in Sitecore customization and full-stack development, is crucial. Candidates should be ready to articulate not just what they built, but how they built it, the processes they followed, and the measurable outcomes achieved.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Developers with 5-10 years of experience in Bucharest, Romania, specializing in Java, React, and Sitecore, the estimated salary range is between €30,000 - €50,000 gross annually. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, skill set, and performance during the interview process.

Benefits:

• Meal Vouchers: Financial assistance for daily meals.
• Holiday Voucher: Additional benefit for personal use during holidays.
• Private Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage for employees and potentially their families.
• Performance Bonus: Potential for additional compensation based on individual and company performance.
• Easter and Christmas Bonus: Seasonal financial bonuses.
• Employee Referral Bonus: Incentive for referring successful candidates.
• Bookster Subscription: Access to a digital library for continuous learning and personal development.
• Work From Home Options: Flexibility to work remotely, depending on project requirements and team needs, offering a hybrid work model.
• Various Discounts: Access to employee discount programs with partner companies (e.g., Lensa, World Class) for personal benefit.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, aligning with standard full-time employment. Flexibility may be available depending on project deadlines and team coordination, supporting a hybrid work arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for experienced software developers in the Romanian market, considering the specific technology stack and seniority. The provided benefits package is comprehensive, offering a mix of financial, health, and lifestyle perks common in the tech industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Expleo operates in the IT services and consulting sector, with a strong focus on engineering, technology, and digital transformation. They serve a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, defense, banking, and telecommunications, implying a dynamic and diverse project environment. Company Size: Expleo is a large global organization with 19,000 employees worldwide and a significant presence in Romania (1700 colleagues). This scale suggests a structured environment with established processes, but also opportunities for diverse project involvement and career growth within a large entity. Founded: Expleo has over 50 years of experience, indicating a mature company with deep industry knowledge and a proven track record in guiding clients through complex business and technological transformations.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: The role likely sits within a dedicated software development or engineering team responsible for client projects or internal digital platforms.
• Reporting Structure: The Senior Developer will likely report to a Development Lead, Team Lead, or Engineering Manager, with potential interaction with Project Managers and Solution Architects.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Expect close collaboration with UX/UI designers, QA engineers, business analysts, and potentially client-side stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery and adoption of digital solutions.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Development: Expleo's focus on guiding clients through transformation suggests an emphasis on data analysis to understand client needs and measure the impact of solutions.
• Workflow Planning & Optimization: As a consulting firm, optimizing client processes and development workflows is core to their offering. This role will likely engage in continuous improvement of development practices.
• Automation & Efficiency: Leveraging technology to improve efficiency is a key aspect of their mission, suggesting a drive towards automation in development and deployment processes.

Company Website: https://www.expleo.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Expleo's global reach and long history suggest a professional, process-driven environment. The focus on engineering and technology consulting implies a culture that values technical expertise, innovation, and client success. The Romanian branch's size indicates a substantial local operation with opportunities for specialization and leadership.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is positioned as a Senior Developer, typically requiring 5-10 years of experience. It involves not just coding but also mentorship and contributing to best practices, indicating a move towards technical leadership and advanced problem-solving within the software development lifecycle. Reporting Structure: The Senior Developer will likely report to a Team Lead or Engineering Manager, collaborating closely with peers, junior developers, and cross-functional teams. This structure allows for technical guidance from management and provides opportunities to influence team practices. Operations Impact: The role directly impacts operational efficiency by building and maintaining robust web applications and content management systems. High-quality digital experiences, optimized performance, and seamless integrations contribute to client satisfaction and Expleo's reputation for delivering excellence.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in Sitecore, Java/Spring Boot, React, or explore emerging technologies like Sitecore Headless, cloud-native development (Azure/AWS), or advanced API architectures.
• Leadership Development: Progress into roles such as Tech Lead, Team Lead, or Architecture roles, where you would guide development teams, define technical strategies, and mentor junior engineers.
• Project Management: Transition into project management or delivery management roles, leveraging your technical understanding to oversee project execution and client relationships.
• Cross-functional Roles: Opportunities to move into specialized areas like DevOps, Cloud Engineering, or Solution Architecture, contributing to broader technology strategy and implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a senior role in a large consulting firm, career progression is likely well-defined. Growth opportunities extend beyond pure technical mastery to include leadership, strategic planning, and specialized engineering domains, aligning with Expleo's mission to guide clients through complex transformations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Expleo offers a hybrid work model, allowing for a blend of on-site collaboration and remote flexibility. This suggests a modern office setup designed to facilitate team interaction, brainstorming, and focused individual work. Office Location(s): The primary location is Bucharest, Romania. Specific details about office amenities or accessibility would need to be confirmed directly, but a major city location typically ensures good transport links.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model and emphasis on cross-functional teams foster a collaborative atmosphere, encouraging knowledge sharing and joint problem-solving.
• Technology & Tools: Access to standard development tools, high-speed internet, and potentially specialized software for Sitecore development and project management will be provided.
• Operations Team Interaction: Regular interaction with fellow developers, project managers, and other technical professionals will be part of the daily routine, facilitating learning and efficient task completion.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (e.g., 40 hours/week) are expected, with the flexibility offered by the hybrid model potentially allowing for some adjustment in daily start/end times, provided project needs and team coordination are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement is a key feature, offering a balance between in-office collaboration and personal flexibility. This model is common in the tech industry and supports efficient operations by catering to diverse work preferences.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, experience match, and cultural fit.
• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions covering Java, React, Sitecore, and general software engineering principles. This may include coding challenges, system design questions, and scenario-based problem-solving.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you present your work, discuss your technical contributions, and explain the impact of your projects. Prepare to articulate your process, challenges, and solutions.
• Team/Manager Interview: Meeting with the potential manager or team members to evaluate team dynamics, communication style, and alignment with team goals.
• Final Interview (Optional): May involve senior leadership or a final confirmation of suitability.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your skills in Java, React, and Sitecore, highlighting complexity and impact.
• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, explain the business problem, your specific role and contributions, the technical challenges, your solution (including code examples if possible), and the measurable outcomes or lessons learned.
• Highlight Sitecore Expertise: Clearly articulate your experience with Sitecore components, templates, customization, and any specific versions or features you've worked with.
• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics whenever possible (e.g., "improved page load time by 20%," "reduced development time for feature X by 15%").
• Prepare for Technical Deep Dives: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your code, architectural decisions, and troubleshooting approaches.

Challenge Preparation:

• Coding Exercises: Practice common coding problems related to data structures, algorithms, and specific technologies (Java, JavaScript).
• Sitecore Scenarios: Be prepared for questions about Sitecore architecture, common development tasks, and troubleshooting issues within the CMS.
• System Design: Practice designing scalable and maintainable web applications, considering factors like performance, security, and maintainability.
• Behavioral Questions: Prepare to answer questions about teamwork, problem-solving, handling conflict, and managing projects using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely rigorous, focusing on both technical depth and the ability to articulate technical contributions effectively through a portfolio. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate practical application of their skills and their understanding of the Sitecore ecosystem.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Java: JDK, Maven/Gradle, Spring Framework (Spring Boot, Spring MVC), Hibernate.
• React.js: React library, Node.js, npm/yarn, Webpack, Babel, state management libraries (e.g., Redux, Context API).
• Sitecore CMS: Sitecore Experience Platform (XP), Sitecore Experience Accelerator (SXA), Sitecore Headless (JSS), Sitecore Content Hub (potentially).
• Databases: SQL Server (common with Sitecore), potentially NoSQL databases.
• Version Control: Git (GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sitecore Analytics: Understanding of Sitecore's built-in analytics capabilities for content performance.
• General Analytics Tools: Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics or similar platforms for website performance tracking.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Integration: Experience integrating web applications with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, Dynamics 365) might be relevant for broader business operations.
• Automation Tools: Familiarity with CI/CD tools (e.g., Jenkins, Azure DevOps, GitLab CI) for build and deployment automation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with the specified technology stack, particularly Java, React, and Sitecore, is paramount. Experience with associated tools for development, version control, and deployment automation (CI/CD) is also critical for success in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, robust, and scalable software solutions that meet client needs and exceed expectations.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team environment where knowledge is shared freely, and individuals work together effectively to achieve common goals.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to drive efficiency and better outcomes.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing client success by understanding their business challenges and delivering solutions that provide tangible value and operational improvements.
• Continuous Improvement: A dedication to refining processes, enhancing skills, and learning from experiences to ensure ongoing professional and organizational growth.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect a team-oriented approach where developers work closely with designers, QA, and project managers, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages open discussion and feedback on development processes, code quality, and project methodologies to drive continuous improvement.
• Knowledge Sharing: Active participation in team meetings, code reviews, and potentially internal knowledge-sharing sessions to disseminate expertise and best practices across the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expleo's consulting background suggests a culture that values professionalism, client-centricity, and technical expertise. The emphasis on collaboration and continuous improvement is vital for success in a dynamic project environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Sitecore Complexity: Mastering the nuances of Sitecore CMS, including its architecture, customization options, and integration capabilities, can present a learning curve.
• Balancing Client Needs & Technical Standards: Effectively translating diverse client requirements into robust, scalable, and maintainable technical solutions while adhering to best practices.
• Keeping Pace with Technology: The rapid evolution of front-end frameworks (React) and CMS technologies requires continuous learning and adaptation.
• Cross-functional Coordination: Ensuring seamless communication and collaboration between development, design, QA, and project management teams to maintain project momentum and quality.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Sitecore Certifications: Pursuing official Sitecore certifications to validate expertise and enhance career prospects within the Sitecore ecosystem.
• Advanced Development Skills: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in areas like Sitecore Headless, performance optimization, cloud deployment (Azure/AWS), and modern JavaScript frameworks.
• Mentorship Programs: Access to senior developers and architects for guidance, skill development, and career advice.
• Industry Conferences & Training: Potential for attending relevant tech conferences and specialized training sessions to stay current with industry trends and advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior development roles in complex technology stacks. Expleo's emphasis on consulting and technology suggests a supportive environment for professional development, allowing individuals to grow their skills and advance their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "How would you approach designing a new feature for a Sitecore-powered website to ensure it is scalable, performant, and easily manageable by content editors?" Prepare to discuss your thought process, architectural considerations, and Sitecore-specific best practices.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "Describe a time you disagreed with a designer or product manager on a feature implementation. How did you resolve it, and what was the outcome?" Focus on communication, compromise, and achieving a mutually beneficial solution that aligns with project goals.
• Problem-Solving: "You've identified a performance bottleneck in a Java backend service. What steps would you take to diagnose and resolve it?" Be ready to detail your debugging methodology, use of profiling tools, and potential solutions.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations: "What do you know about Expleo's work in [specific industry, e.g., automotive, finance]? How do you see your role contributing to our mission of guiding clients through digital transformation?" Research Expleo's services and tailor your answer to show alignment.
• Team Dynamics: "How do you prefer to collaborate with your team members? What role do you typically take in a team setting?" Discuss your strengths in teamwork, mentorship, and contributing to a positive team environment.
• Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of the applications you build? Can you provide an example of how your work directly impacted a project's success or a business metric?" Prepare a case study that quantifies your contributions.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with Context: Clearly state the project's objective, the client's needs, and the business problem you were solving.
• Detail Your Role: Specify your exact contributions, especially in Sitecore development, Java backend, and React frontend.
• Showcase Code & Design: Use screenshots, code snippets, or live demos (if feasible) to illustrate your technical implementation. Explain your design choices and why they were made.
• Highlight Process & Challenges: Discuss the development methodology used, any technical hurdles encountered, and how you overcame them.
• Quantify Impact: Conclude with the results achieved – improvements in performance, user engagement, operational efficiency, or business outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills, particularly in articulating the value and impact of your work through your portfolio. Understanding Expleo's consulting role will also be beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Expleo job portal.
• Operations Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature projects demonstrating your expertise in Java, React, and Sitecore. Select case studies that highlight process optimization, efficient development workflows, and measurable business impact.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description, such as "Java," "Spring Boot," "React.js," "Sitecore CMS," "REST APIs," "Agile," and "CI/CD." Quantify your achievements using metrics where possible to showcase your operational contribution.
• Operations Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience with Sitecore component development, Java backend services, and React frontend implementations. Prepare to discuss your process for code reviews, testing, and troubleshooting. Rehearse presenting your portfolio with a focus on technical details and business outcomes.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Expleo's services, client industries, and company culture. Understand their mission in engineering and technology consulting to better align your answers with their values and operational focus.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.