Principal Software Engineer

Fivetran is building data pipelines to power the modern data stack. We are looking for a Principal Software Engineer to join our Platform Engineering Group, focused on building and evolving the core systems that power our data movement platform. In this role, you will define and drive the long-term technical vision for critical platform components, operate at the intersection of architecture, execution, and organizational influence, and solve deeply complex distributed systems challenges. This is a full-time position based out of our Oakland office with a hybrid work model (two days in office per week). Technologies include Java, JUnit, Claude Code, Docker, Kubernetes, AWS, GCP, Bazel, BuildKite, and observability tools. Responsibilities include defining technical strategy, leading complex system design, driving cross-team initiatives, raising the engineering bar, mentoring senior and staff engineers, improving platform performance, and championing innovation. Qualifications include 12+ years of software engineering experience, system design mastery, technical leadership, strong programming skills in backend development (Java preferred), performance and reliability optimization, communication and influence, and ownership of ambiguous problems. Bonus skills include experience in data processing (ETL, ELT) and startup environments. Compensation range: $225,813—$282,266 USD. Benefits include 100% employer-paid medical insurance, generous PTO, paid sick time, inclusive parental leave, holidays, RSU stock grants, professional development, monthly cell phone stipend, and mental health support.