Principal Software Engineer - Kubernetes

Software International; Toronto; On-site; CAD 192,000 - 235,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent technology firm in Toronto is seeking a Principal Software Engineer to lead the design of a groundbreaking operating system for data and AI. In this role, you will define architectural best practices, mentor engineers, and drive technical vision in a collaborative environment. The ideal candidate has over 8 years of experience, expertise in Kubernetes, and a strong commitment to code quality. This position offers a competitive salary, stock options, and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

Stock options

3 weeks vacation

Comprehensive benefits

Qualifications

• 8+ years of software engineering experience with a proven track record of technical leadership.
• Deep expertise in distributed systems and large-scale data processing.
• Experience architecting and implementing complex software systems from concept to production.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of the data and AI operating system.
• Define and implement architectural patterns and best practices.
• Drive technical vision and strategy in alignment with business objectives.

Skills

Kubernetes

Distributed Systems

Cloud Architecture

Software Design Patterns

Technical Mentorship

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or Mathematics

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Infrastructure as Code

Containerization

Orchestration Technologies

Job description

Software International (SI) supplies technical talent to a variety of clients ranging from Fortune 100/500/1000 companies to small and mid-sized organizations in Canada/US. We are currently hiring multiple Principal Software Engineers - Kubernetes for our client in the Toronto area, which specializes in OS development for AI and data stacks.

Role

Principal Software Engineer - Kubernetes

Type

Fulltime, Perm

Salary Range

$140,000 - $170,000 as base salary depending on overall experience + stock options + 3 weeks vacation + benefits

Location

Onsite - downtown Toronto, ON, Canada

Job Description

Our client is building the world’s first operating system for data and AI. Like iOS, Windows and Linux, our client’s end-to-end OS offers ever‑evolving, automatically operated, best‑of‑breed open‑source components tailored to each of their clients unique needs.

Our client is looking to add multiple Principal Software Engineers with strong experience in Kubernetes and systems development. In this role, you can expect to play a crucial role in building our platform features, as well as creating production‑level AI applications. The role requires a strong commitment to code quality and cross‑functional collaboration as well as a deep sense of ownership. Our client’s team culture is proactive, supportive and collaborative which leads to the growth and expansion of their platform and helps deliver exceptional results for clients.

What You'll Do

• Lead the design, development, and evolution of the data and AI operating system
• Define and implement architectural patterns and best practices across engineering teams
• Provide technical mentorship to engineers at all levels and help grow their capabilities
• Drive technical vision and strategy in alignment with business objectives
• Solve complex systems‑level problems and make critical technical decisions
• Collaborate with product and business stakeholders to translate requirements into technical solutions
• Champion engineering excellence, code quality, and sustainable development practices
• Influence the technical roadmap and participate in strategic planning

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or Mathematics; advanced degree preferred
• 8+ years of software engineering experience with a proven track record of technical leadership
• Deep expertise in distributed systems, cloud architecture, and large‑scale data processing
• Experience architecting and implementing complex software systems from concept to production
• Strong understanding of software design patterns, algorithms, and data structures
• Expertise with Kubernetes, infrastructure as code, containerization, and orchestration technologies
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non‑technical audiences
• Track record of mentoring and growing engineering talent
• Demonstrated ability to balance technical excellence with business requirements
• Experience working in fast‑growing startups and managing ambiguity

What You'll Learn

• Cutting‑edge AI and ML technologies and applications
• Deep expertise in Kubernetes ecosystem
• Advanced data platform architecture
• Techniques for scaling both systems and engineering organizations