Principal Software Engineer at Stax

Description

We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer with strong expertise in C++ and a proven track record of building and maintaining high-performance systems in Linux-based, cloud-hosted environments. This role involves working across a range of technologies, including Oracle SQL, PL/SQL, Perl, Java, and AWS infrastructure, to deliver reliable, scalable, and well-engineered solutions.

The ideal candidate combines deep technical skills with a proactive, hands-on mindset. They should be comfortable exploring unfamiliar or complex codebases, identifying and resolving issues independently, and contributing to system-wide improvements. Success in this role requires initiative and resourcefulness — the ability to learn independently and navigate challenges without requiring constant direction. Equally important is a consistent and detail-oriented approach to work and a commitment to supporting team excellence and delivery.

As a technical leader, you'll help guide a team of full stack engineers, collaborate closely with cross-functional partners, and take ownership of critical systems that drive the platform forward.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and maintain high performance C++ applications.
• Analyze and improve existing systems, including legacy code, to enhance performance, reliability, and maintainability.
• Take initiative in debugging and resolving complex technical issues, even in unfamiliar or undocumented codebases.
• Provide technical direction and mentorship to a team of full stack engineers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define, design, and ship new features.
• Contribute to code reviews, technical standards, and ongoing improvements to engineering practices.
• Ensure system quality through testing, automation, and performance monitoring.
• Support operational excellence by maintaining up-to-date documentation, ticket management, and team communication.
• Stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies to ensure the team uses best practices.
• Adapt to and thrive in a rapidly changing environment, demonstrating flexibility and resilience.

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in software engineering, with a focus on large-scale platforms.
• Expert in C++ with strong understanding of object-oriented programming.
• Strong understanding of SQL and database management.
• Strong understanding of Oracle and PL/SQL scripts.
• Experience with Cloud Development in AWS.
• Solid knowledge of Perl scripting.
• Extensive experience working in a Linux environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in Java and Angular frameworks.
• Familiarity with container orchestration tools like ECS or Kubernetes.
• Background in Payment Processing, Financial Services, or other high-availability transactional systems.
• Experience modernizing or refactoring legacy systems.

Personal Attributes:

• Proactive and self-directed; able to take ownership of technical challenges with minimal oversight.
• Relentless drive to achieve goals and meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Passion for continuous learning and professional development.
• Consistent and dependable in follow-through, documentation, and team updates.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to delivering high-quality, maintainable solutions.