Principal/Senior Software Engineer

Summary

Join Turnitin as a Principal Fullstack/Backend Engineer and contribute to the development and enhancement of foundational systems for our award-winning educational platform. This hands-on role requires expertise in Java, serverless architectures, and distributed systems. You will lead backend development, architect RESTful APIs, and mentor junior developers. The position demands strong collaboration skills and experience with cloud technologies (AWS). Turnitin offers a remote-centric culture and a comprehensive benefits package prioritizing employee well-being. We encourage applications even if you don't meet all criteria, focusing on your willingness to learn and grow.

Requirements

• Over 10 years of experience in backend development with deep proficiency in Java and extensive hands-on experience with serverless frameworks (e.g., AWS Lambda, Google Cloud Functions)
• Solid understanding of frontend technologies, including React and Web Components, with the ability to contribute when needed
• Expertise in designing and managing distributed systems, ensuring scalability, and advanced data modeling techniques
• Demonstrated ability to lead and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders across multiple locations, including distributed teams in Europe and the USA, to deliver impactful, high-quality solutions
• Practical expertise in cloud technologies, specifically developing serverless applications on AWS using services such as Lambda, DynamoDB, API Gateway, SNS/SQS, and EventBridge
• Deep understanding of software development best practices, including design patterns, test-driven development (TDD), and clean code principles
• Experience implementing and managing CI/CD pipelines for automated build, deployment, and testing
• Familiarity with modern DevOps practices and infrastructure-as-code (IaC)
• Proven ability to conduct comprehensive system design reviews, ensuring architectural alignment, scalability, performance, and adherence to best practices
• Proven experience as a Tech Lead, with a strong track record of mentoring and coaching junior engineers, promoting skill development, and driving adherence to best practices to ensure team growth and technical excellence
• Exceptional collaboration skills, working effectively across cross-functional teams, including Product Managers, Architects, and other engineering leads
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Strong problem-solving skills, with a track record of troubleshooting and optimizing existing systems for performance, scalability, and cost efficiency
• Ability to make strategic technical decisions while balancing project deadlines and business goals

Responsibilities

• Lead and design, development, and optimization of scalable backend services using Java and serverless technologies (e.g., AWS Lambda)
• Architect and implement RESTful APIs and event-driven systems to support high-performance, distributed applications
• Provide technical leadership to the team, ensuring alignment with architectural standards and best practices
• Contribute to the development and integration of user-facing frontend components when needed
• Analyze and optimize existing services to enhance performance, scalability, and cost-efficiency
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Architects, Product Managers, and engineering leads, to deliver innovative and impactful solutions
• Mentor and guide junior developers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of CI/CD pipelines to ensure efficient and reliable software delivery
• Maintain high standards of code quality through rigorous peer reviews, comprehensive testing, and adherence to industry best practices
• Create comprehensive documentation for the developed shared components, including usage guidelines and examples

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with frontend technologies such as React, Angular, or Web Components is a plus
• Familiarity with monitoring and observability tools (e.g., CloudWatch, New Relic, Datadog)
• Knowledge of data modeling and working with both NoSQL databases
• Understanding of agile methodologies, including Scrum and Kanban
• Understanding or experience with AI/ML

Benefits

• Remote First Culture
• Health Care Coverage*
• Education Reimbursement*
• Competitive Paid Time Off
• 4 Self-Care Days per year
• National Holidays*
• 2 Founder Days + Juneteenth Observed
• Paid Volunteer Time*
• Charitable contribution match*
• Monthly Wellness or Home Office Reimbursement/*
• Access to Modern Health (mental health platform)
• Parental Leave*
• Retirement Plan with match/contribution*