Principal Software Engineer- Java

Gen is a global company powering Digital Freedom through consumer brands including Norton, Avast, LifeLock, Avira, AVG, ReputationDefender, and CCleaner. Our combined heritage is rooted in providing safety for the first digital generations. We bring leading technology solutions in cybersecurity, privacy and identity protection to more than 500 million users in 150 countries so they can live their digital lives safely, privately, and confidently today and for generations to come. We're always looking for smart, fearless, and dedicated people. Together, we have collective passion and a big vision to power Digital Freedom by protecting consumers and giving them control of their digital lives.

When you’re a part of Gen, you are provided access to a range of resources and support to ensure you can do your best work and live your best life. This includes flexible working options with generous time off and competitive benefits & compensation packages.

Diversity is foundational to how we do business because we know the greatest ideas and results come from our unique perspectives and differences. We strive to create a safe, inclusive environment where you can bring your whole self to work. Team members are valued, respected, and celebrated for who they are in a meaningful and exciting atmosphere.

Gen is an equal employment opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, experience, and business needs.

If this sounds like you—Gen has a dynamic, supportive culture with core values that celebrate diversity, promote teamwork, and encourage every team member to contribute and grow—join us!

About the Role

We are seeking a highly experienced and influential Principal Software Engineer to lead our backend development team. You will be a technical leader responsible for architecting, designing, developing, and maintaining our mission-critical event-driven microservices architecture using Java, Spring framework, Apache Kafka, AWS cloud technologies, NoSQL databases, CI/CD pipelines, and Agile methodologies (Scrum).

What You Will Do in This Role

• Lead the design and implementation of scalable, secure, and high-performing backend microservices using Java and Spring framework.

• Champion event-driven architecture principles and guide the team in effectively utilizing Apache Kafka for asynchronous communication between microservices.

• Architect and implement robust, distributed microservices infrastructure leveraging AWS cloud services (EC2/ECS, S3, MSK, DynamoDB, DocDB, Lambda, etc.) with a focus on security and scalability.

• Provide technical expertise and guidance on selecting and using NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Cassandra) to optimize data storage and retrieval for microservices.

• Oversee the implementation of CI/CD pipelines using tools like Teamcity or Jenkins or GitLab CI/CD to automate the build, test, and deployment process for microservices.

• Foster collaboration across cross-functional teams (product, front-end, QA) to ensure seamless integration and delivery of microservices.

• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning within the team.

• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in Java, Spring, Kafka, AWS cloud technologies, NoSQL databases, CI/CD tools, and Agile methodologies.

• Identify and evaluate new technologies that could improve the microservices architecture.

• Participate in defining the technical roadmap for the backend development team.

• Advocate for best practices in microservices development, code quality, and maintainability.

What You’ll Need to be Successful in this Role

• Master's degree in Computer Science or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• 10+ years of experience as a software engineer with a proven track record of success in architecting and leading backend development efforts.

• In-depth expertise in Java and object-oriented programming principles.

• Extensive experience with Spring framework (Spring Boot preferred).

• Mastery of event-driven architecture principles and hands-on experience implementing them using Apache Kafka.

• Proven experience working with AWS cloud services (EC2/ECS, S3, MSK, DynamoDB, Lambda preferred) to build and deploy scalable microservices infrastructure.

• Strong understanding of NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Cassandra) and their use cases within microservices architectures.

• Experience in implementing CI/CD pipelines using tools like Teamcity or Jenkins or GitLab CI/CD.

• Deep understanding of Agile methodologies (Scrum) and a passion for continuous improvement.

• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.

• Strong leadership qualities, the ability to mentor and inspire others, and a collaborative work style.

• A passion for learning and staying current with new technologies.