Guardian Life Insurance

Lead Software Engineer

Guardian Life Insurance$118K — $195K *
Information Technology
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field
  • 15+ years of experience as a Java / J2EE software engineer
  • Expertise in Java Spring Boot, GraphQL, and Python
  • Strong understanding of Agile and SAFe methodologies
  • Experience designing intuitive and developer-friendly APIs using OpenAPI / Swagger specifications
  • Deep experience with RESTful API design, microservices architecture, and enterprise integration patterns

Responsibilities

  • Lead an agile delivery team within an Agile Release Train (ART)
  • Design and build scalable and production-ready integration solutions
  • Develop and enable APIs and messaging-based integrations
  • Build and support robust MCP servers for Agentic AI solutions
  • Collaborate with Business Partners and Solution Architects on product roadmaps
  • Mentor and coach engineers, conduct code reviews, and ensure engineering excellence
  • Triage and resolve end-to-end system and integration issues

Benefits

  • Opportunities for professional development and mentoring
  • Access to cutting-edge technologies and modern integration patterns
  • Collaborative work environment across various teams
  • Involvement in high-impact projects within the insurance domain
  • Support for Agile and continuous improvement initiatives
Full Job Description
Lead Software Engineer

About the Team

The Group Benefits API Team is responsible for building and operating APIs and integrations that support Guardian's Group Business. We enable core business capabilities such as Quote, Policy, Customer, Eligibility, and Claims through scalable, secure, and production-ready APIs.

Our APIs power end-to-end Group Business intake channels, including customer-facing portal applications, call center platforms, IVR systems, and conversational interfaces such as chatbots-delivering a unified and seamless customer experience.

Our team is growing, and we are seeking a Lead Software Engineer who is passionate about building robust platforms, enabling Agentic AI solutions, and creating meaningful impact through high-quality software.

You Are
  • An experienced backend Lead Java Engineer with a proven track record of leading high-performing teams and delivering high-quality software at speed
  • A hands-on technologist with a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals and software development lifecycle (SDLC) best practices
  • A collaborative leader who can work effectively across the enterprise with Architecture, Product, Platform, Security, and Production Support teams to deliver customer-centric solutions


You Will
  • Lead an agile delivery team as part of an Agile Release Train (ART)
  • Design and build well-engineered, scalable, and production-ready integration solutions
  • Develop and enable APIs, events, and messaging-based integrations using modern integration patterns
  • Build and support robust MCP (Model Context Protocol) servers and API platforms that enable Agentic AI solutions within the insurance domain
  • Collaborate closely with Business Partners and Solution Architects to align delivery with product roadmaps and architectural blueprints
  • Mentor and coach engineers and analysts, assign work, conduct code reviews, and uphold engineering excellence
  • Triage and resolve end-to-end system and integration issues across applications, middleware, and infrastructure


You Have
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field
  • 15+ years of experience as a Java / J2EE software engineer
  • Strong understanding of Agile and SAFe methodologies
  • Expertise in Java Spring Boot, GraphQL, and Python
  • Hands-on experience delivering Agentic AI applications, including building scalable and resilient MCP servers
  • Deep experience with RESTful API design, data-driven design, microservices architecture, event-driven architecture, and enterprise integration patterns
  • Experience designing intuitive and developer-friendly APIs using OpenAPI / Swagger specifications
  • Experience integrating with messaging platforms such as ActiveMQ and IBM MQ
  • Experience with Docker and AWS Cloud services, including S3, Lambda, SQS/SNS, and Redis
  • Experience working with both SQL and NoSQL databases
  • Hands-on experience with Apache Camel, TIBCO BusinessWorks, MuleSoft, or similar EAI frameworks
  • Experience with rules engines such as OpenL, Drools, or Blaze
  • Strong experience with version control and CI/CD automation tools, including Git, Bitbucket, Jenkins, and Maven
  • Experience implementing API security and access control using OAuth 2.0, JWT, and token-based authentication
  • Experience with monitoring and observability tools such as AppDynamics and Zenoss


Salary Range:

$118,980.00 - $195,465.00

The salary range reflected above is a good faith estimate of base pay for the primary location of the position. The salary for this position ultimately will be determined based on the education, experience, knowledge, and abilities of the successful candidate. In addition to salary, this role may also be eligible for annual, sales, or other incentive compensation.

About Guardian Life Insurance

Guardian Life Insurance Careers

Join the Guardian Life Insurance team today and be part of a company that values growth, leadership, and innovation. As a leading provider in the insurance industry, Guardian Life Insurance offers a wealth of job opportunities that empower you to shape your future and strengthen your professional skills. Work You’ll Do At Guardian Life Insurance, you’ll collaborate with a diverse team of experts dedicated to providing exceptional service and innovative solutions to our clients. Our culture thrives on inclusivity and the shared ambition of our team members to drive positive change in the insurance sector. Explore a variety of career paths in areas ranging from customer service to financial advisement, each offering the potential to engage with transformative projects that impact lives. Our commitment to professional growth is evident in our robust training programs, including leadership development and diversity training, designed to enhance your skills and advance your career. Innovative Work Guardian Life Insurance is at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technology and personalized service. Join us and contribute to initiatives that redefine industry standards and lead to more predictive and personalized customer experiences. Be Part of a Great Team Our team at Guardian Life Insurance is our strongest asset. We foster an environment where creativity and effectiveness are encouraged, making it a perfect place for those who seek to innovate and excel in their careers. With a focus on nurturing talent, we offer comprehensive benefits, competitive salaries, and a supportive atmosphere that advocates work-life balance. Future-Proof Your Career With Guardian Life Insurance, your career is future-proof. Dive into a range of employment opportunities that not only align with your current skills but also challenge you to grow and expand your capabilities. Whether you’re looking for a full-time position, an internship, or even leadership roles, Guardian Life Insurance is committed to helping you find the right path. Stay Connected Join Our Team Discover the job opportunities waiting for you at Guardian Life Insurance. We are continuously hiring and looking for individuals who are passionate, driven, and ready to contribute to our mission. Search open positions that match your skills and interests, and take the first step towards a rewarding career with us. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest career tips, industry insights, and company news—all from the professionals who make Guardian Life Insurance a leader in the insurance industry. Our careers blog provides valuable information to help you prepare for your next interview, polish your resume, and enhance your networking abilities. Job Alert Emails Customize your experience by subscribing to job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Guardian Life Insurance, and see how you can contribute to our legacy of excellence and innovation. Join Guardian Life Insurance today and be part of a company that’s dedicated to your career growth and professional development.
Learn more about Guardian Life Insurance
Size
9,000 employees
Industry
Founded
1860

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