Principal Software Engineer

About the position

A Principal Software Engineer will apply advanced technical expertise and leadership skills to design, develop, and maintain complex applications and systems, ensuring optimal performance and high-quality standards. This role involves comprehensive software analysis, project coordination, and system maintenance, contributing significantly to the organization's technical direction and strategic goals.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of new and existing software applications, identifying areas for enhancement and innovation to meet evolving business needs.
• Monitor, identify, and resolve highly complex software issues, ensuring continuous operational excellence.
• Collaborate with Software Architects and executive leadership to establish and uphold coding standards, methodologies, and software development life cycle (SDLC) best practices.
• Oversee the design and implementation of software solutions, including feasibility studies, and guide testing strategies and validation processes.
• Execute complex software testing, analyze results, and ensure applications meet specified performance criteria and user requirements.
• Contribute significantly to the strategic planning of technology solutions, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Provide expert-level troubleshooting, diagnostics, and resolution of technical problems affecting multiple integrated systems.
• Deliver large-scale projects and initiatives within structured program management frameworks.
• Develop and manage project timelines, ensuring effective resource allocation and timely completion of deliverables.
• Create, maintain, and optimize database structures, performing advanced data modeling and performance tuning.
• Develop comprehensive technical documentation and provide training to stakeholders to enhance software utilization and effectiveness.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and industry trends, driving adoption where beneficial to organizational goals.
• Regularly evaluate the financial implications and return on investment (ROI) for major IT initiatives.
• Mentor, coach, and supervise junior developers, facilitating professional growth through training, mentoring, and performance feedback.
• Conduct thorough project retrospectives, implement lessons learned, and continually refine software development processes.
• Provide detailed project updates, reports, and documentation as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 10+ years of progressive software development experience, including experience leading teams and complex projects.
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field (or 7+ years O'Reilly software development experience in lieu of degree).
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate financial impacts and articulate the business value of technical projects.
• Expert-level knowledge of change management and enterprise-level change control processes.
• Mastery of SDLC methodologies and advanced software design principles.
• In-depth understanding of secure and robust coding practices.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills, capable of addressing and resolving complex issues independently and collaboratively.
• Superior communication skills, with proven ability to convey technical concepts clearly to diverse audiences.
• Advanced skills in debugging, testing, and optimizing multi-system technology platforms.
• Ability to perform detailed data and software analysis to inform decision-making.
• Strong project management skills, including task prioritization and time management.
• Proven ability to mentor, lead, and inspire technical teams.
• Flexibility in scheduling, with occasional availability for after-hours support.

Nice-to-haves

• Advanced understanding of financial analysis methods, including ROI evaluations for technology projects.
• Formal training or advanced education in leadership, teambuilding, or related fields.
• Expert-level certifications in Project Management, Business Analysis, or specialized technical domains relevant to role responsibilities.

Benefits

• Competitive Wages & Paid Time Off
• Stock Purchase Plan & 401k with Employer Contributions Starting Day One
• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance with Optional Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Team Member Health/Wellbeing Programs
• Tuition Educational Assistance Programs
• Opportunities for Career Growth