Workflow Specialist (Java)

As a Workflow Specialist, you will be a core execution member of the dedicated migration squad. 

This is the most specialised and highest-leverage role in the migration programme. This role requires a rare combination: deep understanding of rule-based automation systems on the source side (including strong domain knowledge), and the ability to translate those patterns into a modern workflow engine on the target side.  

Tech & Tool Stack

Java

AI

• The highest impact, most technically interesting role in the migration programme.   

• Genuine ownership: you will design, build, and operate a toolkit from scratch, with direct input into architecture decisions. 

• Long-term engagement: as the migrations scale, the Workflow Specialist role grows into a subject matter authority position with influence over tooling strategy and AI acceleration. 

• High visibility within the programme: the toolkit you build is on the critical path, and its outcomes are tracked programme-wide at every phase gate – your contribution is never invisible. 

• 5+ years of experience in workflow automation, business rules engines, or process automation – with a proven track record of analysing and translating complex rule-based logic. 

• Solid Java and JVM language skills (Java 21 ecosystem preferred); ability to read, debug, and extend existing codes (migration modules). 

• Experience designing and/or implementing workflow engines, BPM platforms, or rule engines – including multi-step sequences, conditional branching, event-driven triggers, and external system integration. 

• Ability to read and interpret Smalltalk code or rule definitions at a functional level – you do not need to be a Smalltalk developer, but you must be able to reverse-engineer business logic from unfamiliar syntax. 

• Rapid domain understanding: ability to quickly absorb unfamiliar, regulated business domains.  

• Strong analytical skills: ability to reverse-engineer undocumented business rules, infer intent from runtime behaviour, and identify semantic equivalences across different automation paradigm. 

• Experience working with domain experts and subject matter experts (legal, financial, operations) to validate that technical implementations match business requirements – especially in regulated or legally sensitive contexts. 

• Fluent English (written and spoken); ability to produce clear technical documentation and communicate complex workflow semantics to both engineers and business stakeholders. 

• Active use of AI-assisted tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Claude, GitHub Copilot or similar) as part of daily development and problem-solving workflow – we expect AI tools to be a natural part of how you work. 

• Direct experience with Cincom ObjectStudio or any Smalltalk-based system.  

• Background in debt management, collections, accounts receivable, or financial services – understanding of dunning processes, instalment plans, court filing procedures, and interest calculation rules significantly reduces ramp-up time.  

• Experience building code parsers, AST processors, or rule translators (even in other domains). 

• Familiarity with AI/ML-assisted automation: pattern clustering, rule classification, skeleton generation from labelled examples. 

• Experience in a migration context, particularly translating legacy automation to modern platforms. 

• German language skills (B2+).