Senior Forward Deployed Software Engineer (FDE)

About the role

Spearheads complex deployments of software, architects customized enterprise-grade cloud and android solutions, and works directly with key enterprise customers to resolve high-stakes technical challenges, deployments and drive product success. In this customer-facing role, leverages deep frontline experience to heavily influence internal engineering teams, driving the architectural vision and development of core solutions that proactively address complex customer pain points.

Responsibilities

• Establishes requirements for moderately complex software design projects
• Prioritizes features to ensure the most impactful are implemented first
• Leads and participates in code reviews, proactively identifying and addressing issues early in the development process
• Completes all phases of moderately complex software design and development projects, including in process and final inspections to meet quality standards
• Develops and tests comprehensive documentation to support software projects, including design specifications, code comments, and user manuals
• Explores and applies the latest technologies and innovative approaches to enhance software designs and implementations
• Determines and develops innovative approaches to solve complex problems, leveraging technical expertise and industry best practices
• Forward Deployment Responsibilities
• Enterprise Pilot Strategy & Deployment: Lead the hands-on deployment, technical development and validation of Zebra's Android and cloud-based solutions during high-stakes customer pilots. Conduct technical workshops, customize and guide the seamless roll-out of devices and software into live, mission-critical operations.
• Customer Workflow Optimization & Architecture Review: Act as a key technical consultant by reviewing real-world customer workflows, system use cases, and deployment environments. Analyze the customer's end-to-end software architecture to identify integration bottlenecks and ensure Zebra solutions fit seamlessly within their ecosystem.
• Hands-on Design, Code, & Troubleshooting: Develop, diagnose, debug, and troubleshoot complex software and device-level issues directly in the field. Actively review, design, and write high-quality code (spanning local Android to backend cloud integrations) to rapidly deploy stable, scalable solutions.
• Android & Cloud Solution Integration: Bridge the requirements gap in device-side Android applications and cloud solutions. Ensure secure connectivity, robust API integrations, and smooth data exchange between Zebra mobile devices, cloud backends, and existing third-party enterprise databases.
• AI-Assisted Efficiency: Incorporate modern, Zebra-approved AI coding tools (such as Claude Code) to accelerate troubleshooting, write efficient code, and optimize application performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required
• Minimum 5+ years of relevant software engineering experience OR 3+ years of experience with an Advanced Degree
• Professional software engineering experience specializing in full-stack cloud solutions required
• A demonstrated ability to proactively take initiative in diagnosing bugs and writing real-time code to resolve complex challenges required

Skills and Competencies

• Proficient in multiple programming languages and software development frameworks
• Strong understanding of software architecture, design patterns, system-level programming, and adopting GenAI in Software Development Lifecycle
• Experience with software testing strategies, debugging tools, and performance optimization techniques
• Ability to evaluate and integrate new technologies into existing software solutions
• Strong problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges
• Proficiency with version control systems (e.g., Git, GitHub) and familiarity with CI/CD pipelines
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to mentor and influence junior team members
• Experience working with cross-functional teams and engaging with external customers or stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while effectively managing multiple priorities

Key Skills and Competencies

• Backend: Java, Spring Boot, Hibernate, Node.js
• Frontend: JavaScript, TypeScript, ReactJS
• Cloud & Tools: Google Cloud (GCP), Docker, Kubernetes, CI/CD, Microservices
• Databases: Relational (MySQL/PostgreSQL), NoSQL (MongoDB), Data Warehousing (BigQuery)
• AI Assisted Development: GitHub Copilot, Cursor, Claude Code, or equivalent AI coding assistants
• Advanced Android Development (Android SDK, Kotlin/Java)

Travel Requirements

Up to 25%

Benefits

We understand the importance of work-life balance and wellbeing, which is why we offer flexibility for our teams including: hybrid work, adaptable hours, Summer Flex Fridays, Focus Fridays, and an annual companywide well-being day to promote revitalization and success.

Pay Range

$96,800.00 - $145,200.00 Annual Incentive Compensation

In addition to base pay, Zebra offers this role the opportunity to earn a performance-based annual cash incentive, at a target equal to 10% of base pay, in accordance with the terms of the applicable incentive plan.

AI Technology Statement

Zebra Technologies leverages AI technology to evaluate job applications using objective, job-relevant criteria. This approach enhances efficiency and promotes fairness in the hiring process. However, every decision regarding interviews and hiring is made by our dedicated team, because we believe people make the best decisions about people.