Sr. Software Engineer

About the role

We are looking for a senior-level software engineer to take a lead role in shaping backend systems and guiding technical direction for a high-impact engineering team in Palo Alto, California. This Long-term Contract position combines architecture ownership with active software development, offering the opportunity to influence design standards while contributing directly to production code. The role is well suited for someone who can balance strategic decision-making, engineering mentorship, and deep hands-on execution in an AI-focused development environment.

Responsibilities

• Define and evolve backend architecture to support scalable, reliable, and maintainable software solutions.
• Write and deliver production-quality code while remaining deeply involved in day-to-day engineering work.
• Provide technical leadership across the team by setting direction, resolving complex design questions, and promoting sound development practices.
• Review code thoughtfully and consistently to maintain quality, encourage knowledge sharing, and strengthen overall system design.
• Make informed architectural decisions that align with product goals, long-term platform health, and engineering best practices.
• Build extensions, plugins, and integrations on top of the organization’s AI platform to expand functionality and improve developer workflows.
• Collaborate with engineers and stakeholders to translate technical needs into effective backend solutions within a standardized AI environment.

Requirements

• Proven experience operating at a Staff Engineer or Tech Lead level within software engineering organizations.
• Strong expertise in backend system design, architecture planning, and modern software development practices.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technically while also contributing significant hands-on coding work.
• Background working with AI or machine learning platforms, including experience building integrations or platform-based solutions.
• Familiarity with Amazon SageMaker, XGBoost, and broader data science concepts relevant to applied engineering environments.
• Experience conducting code reviews and guiding engineering teams toward high-quality technical outcomes.
• Prior experience with the organization’s AI platform is preferred, with that background valued more highly than GitHub Copilot exposure.

Benefits

Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.