Lead Software Engineer

AutoNation; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation and 401k matching

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Discount programs for vehicles and services

Access to deals through YouDecide

Job summary

AutoNation is looking for an experienced Lead Software Engineer in Irvine, California. This role involves driving the design and delivery of mission-critical applications, managing a development team, and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure high-quality software solutions.

The ideal candidate will have significant experience with .NET, SQL Server, and Azure technologies, along with strong leadership qualities. AutoNation offers competitive compensation and a range of benefits, making it a great place to grow your career.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in software development with C# / .NET.
• Experience leading a team of 3 or more software developers.
• Experience producing solution designs for mission-critical systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement high-quality software solutions.
• Lead the development team and adhere to programming standards.
• Collaborate with Product Owners and ensure timely delivery of tasks.

Skills

C# / .NET

SQL Server

Azure

Web Services and APIs

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft SQL Server

Azure Functions

REST APIs

CI/CD

Job description

AutoNation Finance is AutoNation’s in‑house Customer Financial Services provider. Our technology teams are developing new financial capabilities to expand AutoNation Finance and strengthen customer relationships. We seek an experienced Lead Software Engineer to drive the design, development, and delivery of mission‑critical applications that power AutoNation Finance. We are looking for an individual with strong leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills with experience managing a team of developers delivering solutions based on a modern .NET, SQL Server, and Microsoft Azure technology stack, that integrates with off‑the‑shelf automotive finance technology solutions and SaaS services.

At this time, we are not considering applicants who require employment authorization sponsorship (1) as a condition of eligibility for employment with the Company or (2) at any point during the term of their employment. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future visa sponsorship by the Company.

Job Responsibilities

The Lead Software Engineer is responsible for the overall design, implementation, and quality of the code the team produces. They will partner with IT leadership, architecture, and development staff to establish vision, strategy, and roadmaps that align with business strategies and organizational priorities. They must collaborate with peers and leadership to leverage knowledge and solutions across the organization and are expected to be hands‑on with a modern .NET, SQL Server, and Microsoft Azure technology stack, as well as off‑the‑shelf automotive finance technology solutions and SaaS services.

• Analyze, design, and drive development of application solutions and enhancements that meet business and technical requirements on the .NET, SQL Server, and Azure platform. (60%)
• Ensure adherence to programming standards, enterprise architectural standards, security, and compliance requirements for AutoNation Finance. (10%)
• Complete work assignments and perform appropriate follow‑up to ensure that tasks are completed on time, within scope, and with high quality. (10%)
• Collaborate with Product Owners, application users, vendors, and other developers to define requirements, design, and develop applications and integrations across .NET services, Azure Functions, SQL Server data stores, and SaaS / off‑the‑shelf automotive finance platforms. (10%)
• Assist in the rollout of new applications, problem fixes, and enhancements of software, including configuration of off‑the‑shelf automotive finance technology and SaaS services. (10%)
• Mentor junior and mid‑level engineers on .NET, SQL Server, Azure cloud, and modern engineering practices including code reviews, automated testing, and CI/CD.
• Perform other job‑related functions as assigned.
• Demonstrate behaviors consistent with the Company’s Vision, Mission, and Values in all interactions with customers, co‑workers, and suppliers.
• Adhere to all company policies, procedures, and safety standards.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in software development with C# / .NET, demonstrating increasing levels of responsibility.
• Experience leading a team of 3 or more software developers.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or equivalent experience.
• Experience producing solution designs for large‑scale, highly available, mission‑critical systems.
• Proficient in designing, building, and consuming Web Services and APIs (REST, JSON, OAuth) and multi‑tier or microservice applications on the .NET platform.
• Strong hands‑on experience with Microsoft SQL Server, T‑SQL, and data modeling for large‑scale database applications.
• Hands‑on experience with Microsoft Azure, including Azure Functions, App Services, Azure SQL, Service Bus / Event Grid, Key Vault, and related cloud technologies.
• Experience integrating with and configuring off‑the‑shelf automotive finance technology solutions and SaaS services (e.g., loan origination, loan servicing, collections, customer self‑service, payment, and credit decisioning platforms).
• Demonstrated sound architecture skills and broad experience designing applications across cloud, on‑prem, and SaaS components.
• Ability to communicate complex technical design concepts and translate them into non‑technical business solutions.
• Able to communicate well with all levels in the organization and comfortable as a primary contact to internal stakeholders and external vendors.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Experience working in Agile, Waterfall, and other software development methodologies.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to travel approximately <5% between AutoNation work locations as required by work assignments and delivery schedules.
• Work with computers and other common office equipment.
• Work locations are in a corporate office environment with no special physical requirements beyond what is normally expected in a typical modern corporate office.

Exciting Benefits And Perks Await You

• Competitive compensation and 401k matching
• Enjoy a healthy work‑life balance with insurance plans (health, dental, vision) and maternity benefits.
• Associate purchase and discount programs for new and pre‑owned vehicles, services, parts, collision, accessories, and AutoGear.
• Access amazing deals and discounts through YouDecide, a website with offers from top providers and retailers.
• Join our DRVPNK mission to raise and donate millions of dollars to cancer research and treatment, partnering with cancer charities nationwide.

AutoNation is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in our workplace and the services we provide. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds who are passionate about making a positive impact. Even if you do not meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and help us foster a culture of belonging while contributing to our revolutionary work in the automotive industry. We value innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.