Senior Software Engineer (Java / React)

Come shape the future of education with us.

Timetabling is difficult. Balancing selections, resources and allocations can feel like you’re spinning plates. At Griddle, we build software that does the heavy lifting so schools can focus on what really matters.

Griddle is part of the Compass Group, working to transform the school day for everyone - from staff and students to families and administrators. Together, we build smart, seamless technology that supports thousands of schools globally.

We're excited to welcome a Senior Software Engineer to join our team and be part of our journey.

About the Role & Team

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, you’ll take ownership of designing and building robust backend-driven applications while contributing to frontend experiences where needed. This is a hands-on role with real impact, combining technical depth, product thinking and engineering leadership.

You’ll work closely with Product, Design and other engineers to solve meaningful problems, improve system reliability and help shape how we build high-quality software at scale.

At Compass, you will:

• Design, build and maintain secure, scalable software used by thousands of school communities
• Champion clean code, software craftsmanship and engineering best practices
• Solve complex technical problems and identify the right solutions based on impact and trade-offs
• Contribute to architecture and technical direction across the team
• Collaborate with Product and Design to build solutions that meet real customer needs
• Mentor and support other engineers, contributing to team capability and growth
• Participate in code reviews, technical discussions and continuous improvement of standards
• Take ownership of your work and contribute to a culture of quality, accountability and learning

About You

You’re someone who takes ownership, thinks critically and enjoys working on meaningful technical challenges.

You will bring:

• 5+ years’ professional experience in software engineering, ideally in SaaS or product-led environments
• Strong backend experience with Java and/or Kotlin, with solid knowledge of Spring Boot
• Experience working across the stack, with exposure to React (TypeScript preferred)
• Strong understanding of relational databases (PostgreSQL) and system design
• Experience working in cloud environments (GCP or AWS)
• Familiarity with messaging systems such as RabbitMQ or similar
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to navigate complex systems
• A passion for building high-quality software and continuously improving how things are done

Why Join Compass

You’ll join a purpose-driven company at a genuinely exciting stage of growth, with the opportunity to make a real impact on education at scale.

What we offer:

• A hybrid working environment, with teams working a hybrid structure in our office hubs.
• Learning and development opportunities, including a dedicated PD budget.
• 24/7 access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), including face-to-face, phone and live chat support.
• A parental leave program for both primary and secondary carers.
• Regular team events, social budgets and in-office perks help you stay connected, from team lunches to end-of-week socials.
• Employee Referral Program
• A supportive, inclusive culture where your voice is valued and heard.

Compass is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We embrace and celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Prior to commencing employment, you’ll need:

• A valid Employee Working With Children Check
• A satisfactory National Police Check
• Verification of unrestricted work rights in Australia (e.g. citizenship, passport or birth certificate)

Ready to Apply?

If you’re excited by the opportunity to build scalable systems, solve complex problems and contribute to technology that supports schools every day, we’d love to hear from you.

Find out more about Compass on our website - www.compass.education.