Principal Software Engineer

This is a remote role that may be hired in several markets across the United States.

We are seeking a seasoned Principal Software Engineer - Enterprise Integrations with deep expertise in API design/development, Kafka-based event-driven integrations, and microservices architecture. This technical leadership role will focus on designing and implementing scalable enterprise integration solutions aligned with enterprise architecture standards and business objectives.

• Software Development Support - Facilitates software development through the creation of software utilities or other means to support effective software development activities/solutions. Evaluates software specifications to determine feasibility of use in particular infrastructures. Analyzes, presents, and implements necessary development and/or infrastructure changes.
• Technical Expert - Maintains a strong knowledge of technology trends and impact on the Bank's infrastructure in order to provide relevant consultative guidance. Trains and mentors others on new technologies.
• Consultation - Provides technical advice and direction to associates, management, and developmental project teams. Utilizes expertise to consult and develop software to solve complex technical problems.
• Business Strategy - Advises on strategies that align developmental projects with long-term business needs and technological direction. Assists management in implementing initiatives or strategies across the division.

Bachelor's Degree and 10 years of experience in Software application development and maintenance

OR

High School Diploma or GED and 14 years of experience in Software application development and maintenance

Preferred qualifications:

• Lead the technical design and implementation of scalable enterprise integrations - APIs, event-driven microservices messaging and real-time data pipelines.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define integration strategies/patterns, technical roadmaps, and delivery plans.
• Establish and enforce best practices for API lifecycle management, Kafka topic design, schema evolution, and DevOps automation.
• Expertise in Kafka Connect, Kafka Streams, and Schema Registry.
• Familiarity with API security protocols (OAuth2, JWT, SAML).
• Experience integrating with legacy systems and modernizing monolithic applications.
• Hands-on experience with cloud native architecture.
• Partner with enterprise architects, product owners, and business stakeholders to ensure alignment with strategic goals.
• Manage technical risks, dependencies, and escalations, ensuring proactive communication and resolution.
• Experience with DevOps tools, CI/CD pipelines, and container orchestration (Docker, Kubernetes, Openshift).

This job posting is expected to remain active for 45 days from the initial posting date listed above. If it is necessary to extend this deadline, the posting will remain active as appropriate. Job postings may come down early due to business need or a high volume of applicants.

If hired in North Carolina, the base pay for this position is generally between $154,140 and $200,000. Actual starting base pay will be determined based on skills, experience, location, and other non-discriminatory factors permitted by law. For some roles, total compensation may also include variable incentives, bonuses, benefits, and/or other awards as outlined in the offer of employment.

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Benefits are an integral part of total rewards and First Citizens Bank is committed to providing a competitive, thoughtfully designed and quality benefits program to meet the needs of our associates. More information can be found at https://jobs.firstcitizens.com/benefits.