About the role

Principal Engineer leading architectural evolution of Xero's global platform and influencing global engineering standards. Collaborating with executive stakeholders and driving innovation in fintech.

Responsibilities

As a Principal Engineer, you will be a visionary technical leader, driving the long-term architectural evolution of Xero’s global platform.
You will act as a bridge between high-level business strategy and technical execution, identifying and mitigating systemic risks before they manifest.
Your influence will be felt through the creation of global engineering standards and the cultivation of a world-class technical culture.
You will be part of a senior leadership collective, collaborating with executive stakeholders, product directors, and other principal engineers to define the future of our technology stack.
Initially, you will focus on architecting and overseeing the transition of critical global infrastructure to next-generation distributed patterns.
Leading the technical response to large-scale, ambiguous challenges that span multiple domains and regions.
Establishing and championing the global "golden path" for developer experience, security, and operational excellence.
Driving the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and methodologies that keep Xero at the forefront of the fintech industry.

Proven experience delivering and operating complex, large-scale systems (distributed/high-availability environments), with strong fundamentals and the ability to ramp quickly across adjacent technologies (we’re tech-stack agnostic).
You bring extensive experience in leading the architectural direction for massive, complex cloud-based distributed systems.
A proven ability to navigate high levels of ambiguity and deliver strategic technical solutions that align with long-term business goals is essential.
You possess a high degree of emotional intelligence, allowing you to influence technical and non-technical stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.
Your leadership style is defined by a commitment to technical excellence and a passion for mentoring the next generation of technical leaders.
You have a deep understanding of the entire software delivery lifecycle and how to optimise it for thousands of engineers.
Excellent communication skills are a must, with the ability to tell a compelling story about technical strategy and its impact on our customers.

Variable Pay: Eligibility commissions or equity based on role and performance.
Comprehensive Benefits: World-class health, wellness, and retirement programs.
Xero Perks: __Inside Xero__ Explore our full suite of benefits, from wellbeing initiatives to professional development.