Internship: Java Performance Optimization in Microservices

Job TitleInternship: Java Performance Optimization in MicroservicesJob DescriptionAssignment type: InternshipStart date: February 2027 Assignment duration: 6 months Location: Veghel Education level: Bachelor / Master Desired study: Computer science, Software engineering or related field Language: Dutch / English Description of assignment Ready to tackle a high-impact software challenge? Our warehouse automation platform relies on dozens of Java and Spring Boot microservices on Kubernetes, where many services consume 600 MB to 900 MB per pod. High memory usage increases infrastructure costs, reduces cluster density, and limits scalability across development, testing, and production. In this project, you will investigate, measure, and optimize memory consumption across Spring Boot, Hibernate, JVM structures, thread pools, and caches without sacrificing performance or reliability. You will explore smart reduction strategies, answer how to minimize the platform's footprint, and deliver proof-of-concept optimizations with proven cost and resource savings Department description This assignment takes place within Warehouse Execution Systems (WES), the software development organization responsible for a key part of the Warehouse Platform. Our multidisciplinary teams develop and maintain different software modules in close collaboration. You will join an experienced and supportive environment where colleagues actively share their knowledge and help junior team members grow. WES offers a dynamic yet structured workplace where teams solve real-world challenges and continuously create and improve solutions. As an intern, you will work closely with a dedicated supervisor while collaborating with experienced software professionals who will support your learning and development throughout the assignment. Tasks/responsibilities Analyze memory consumption of Java microservices running on Kubernetes Profile Spring Boot services to locate high memory usage Explore optimizations like JVM tuning, cache reduction, and GraalVM Build proof-of-concept implementations to test improvements Measure performance and savings before and after optimizations Present results, practical recommendations, and expected cost benefits Your profile Background in Computer Science or Software Engineering Good knowledge of Java and microservice concepts Interest in performance tuning, profiling, and optimization Basic experience with Linux, Spring Boot, or containers An analytical mindset and strong communication skills *Mandatory enrolment to a Dutch Education System & resident of The Netherlands What we offer A monthly internship allowance (based on a 40-hour work week): Bachelor: €500 per month Master: €550 per month Full commuting allowance, including public transport, depending on whether you have access to free public transport or not On-site health center with gym Active employee communities and initiatives Excellent company restaurant and barista coffee bar Contact Do you recognize yourself in this challenging profile? Are you looking for an internship in our organization? Please fill out the application form and upload your resume and cover letter. For more information, contact us by e-mail: internship@vanderlande.com.