Java Developer - Core Java / Desktop Software
Build real-world Java desktop software in a small, supportive engineering team where your ideas, problem-solving ability and practical coding skills will genuinely matter.
We are looking for someone with strong Core Java ability who can learn quickly, contribute early and grow with the team as we move into important upcoming projects.
This is a full-time, office-based role in Stafford. We are not recruiting for a remote position.
About Us
Semantics 21 is a multi-award-winning UK software company developing specialist software used internationally within public safety and investigative environments.
Our technology helps organisations process and review digital evidence more effectively, supporting work with genuine real-world impact in areas including child protection and public safety.
The software we build can make a real difference. This role is suited to someone who wants their work to matter and wants to help create applications that support important public safety outcomes.
Despite the sensitive environments our software supports, development staff are never exposed to illegal or disturbing material as part of their role.
The Role
This is a hands-on Java development role focused on desktop software rather than web development or AI model development.
Strong practical Core Java ability is essential. Previous desktop application, Java 25, Java Swing or JavaFX experience would be highly beneficial, but we are also open to strong Java developers who can demonstrate the ability to learn quickly and adapt to desktop software development.
This role is ideal for someone with strong Java skills, good problem-solving ability, reliability, and the motivation to develop quickly within a long-term product environment.
We do use AI-assisted development tools where appropriate, and there may be opportunities to work on AI-related product features in the future. However, the immediate focus of this role is Core Java, Java Swing, desktop applications, usability, performance, reliability and maintainability.
You Will Be Involved In
Why Join Us
This role suits developers who enjoy building real desktop software products rather than short-lived web, marketing or internal dashboard projects.
What We’re Looking For
We are looking for someone with:
Background
A degree in Computer Science or equivalent practical experience would be beneficial, though we are open to candidates from different backgrounds who can demonstrate strong technical ability.
We are open to strong early-career applicants, but this is not a graduate-only training role. Candidates should be able to demonstrate practical Java ability and the confidence to contribute to real commercial software reasonably quickly.
Strong personal projects, GitHub work, portfolio examples or demonstrable practical coding ability are valued more highly than formal qualifications alone.
Please include links to previous work, GitHub, portfolio projects, screenshots or other examples in your CV or application where available.
Working Environment
Most roles are based around a 7.5-hour working day, Monday-Friday, during normal office hours. Typical patterns may include 08:00-16:00, 09:00-17:00 or 10:00-18:00.
What We Offer
Important Note
This role is specifically focused on Core Java and desktop software development.
Applicants from Java web or backend backgrounds may be considered where they can demonstrate strong practical Core Java ability and a genuine willingness to work on desktop software.
Applicants focused primarily on web development frameworks, frontend JavaScript frameworks, AI-only work, or remote-only roles are unlikely to be suitable for this position.
Reliability and the ability to attend the Stafford office consistently are important for this role.
How to Apply
Please include an up-to-date CV.
A formal cover letter is not required, but a short note explaining your relevant Java experience, desktop software experience, project examples, GitHub links or portfolio work is welcome.
To help us assess applications fairly, please answer the application questions and include relevant links or examples where available. Applications with incomplete information may be harder for us to assess and may not be progressed.
We review applications as they arrive and aim to contact suitable candidates promptly rather than waiting until the closing date. The role may close once we find the right candidate, so early applications are encouraged.
Direct applicants only - no recruitment agencies.
You can learn more about our products, videos and webinars at:
https://www.semantics21.com
Job reference: S21-JAVA-IN3-J2026
Pay: £30,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Ability to commute/relocate:
Application question(s):
Work authorisation:
Work Location: In person
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