Raymond James Financial, Inc

Principal Engineer, Data Engineering

Raymond James Financial, Inc$130K — $160K *
Enterprise Technology
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's in Computer Science or equivalent field required; Master's preferred
  • Over 15 years of general experience in engineering and data architecture
  • Expert-level skills in Python and Oracle database development
  • Deep knowledge of CI/CD practices, especially with Jenkins
  • Familiarity with Kubernetes and containerized applications
  • Experience with cloud environments like AWS, Azure, or GCP
  • Proven track record of engineering leadership and cross-functional collaboration

Responsibilities

  • Define and drive architecture for enterprise data platforms
  • Establish engineering standards and best practices across teams
  • Lead complex system designs for high-impact initiatives
  • Provide technical guidance and strategy to leadership
  • Oversee design and implementation of data pipelines and APIs
  • Ensure solutions are reliable, available, and observant
  • Mentor senior engineers and foster engineering excellence

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life and critical illness insurance
  • Disability benefits
  • Retirement savings plan
  • Paid time off including vacation and holidays
  • Parental leave
  • Hybrid work model with in-office expectations
Full Job Description
Job Description Summary
We are seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Engineer to provide technical leadership and drive architectural excellence across our enterprise data platforms. This role requires deep expertise in Python, Oracle database development, CI/CD, Kubernetes, and large-scale data systems, along with the ability to influence cross-functional teams and shape long-term engineering strategy.
As a Principal Engineer, you will act as a technical authority and thought leader, responsible for defining architecture standards, driving innovation, ensuring scalability and performance, and mentoring engineering teams. You will partner closely with leadership, product, and operations teams to deliver strategic solutions aligned with enterprise goals.

Job Description

This position follows a hybrid work model, with an expectation to be in the office 3 days per week at the St. Petersburg, FL Corporate Office location.

Please note: This role is not eligible for Work Visa sponsorship, either currently or in the future.

Responsibilities

Technical Strategy & Architecture
  • Define and drive enterprise-level architecture for data platforms, ensuring scalability, reliability, and performance.
  • Establish engineering standards, design patterns, and best practices across teams.
  • Lead system design for complex, high-impact initiatives across multiple domains.


Engineering Leadership
  • Provide technical leadership across multiple teams, not limited to a single project or squad.
  • Act as a trusted advisor to leadership on technology strategy, trade-offs, and long-term platform evolution.
  • Drive alignment across engineering, data, and platform teams to ensure consistency and reusability.

Solution Design & Development
  • Lead the design and development of enterprise-grade Python applications and distributed systems.
  • Oversee architecture and implementation of data pipelines, APIs, and large-scale data processing frameworks.
  • Ensure solutions are designed with high availability, fault tolerance, and observability.


Data & Database Engineering
  • Define and enforce data architecture standards for Oracle and other data platforms.
  • Lead advanced database optimization strategies, including performance tuning, partitioning, and query optimization.
  • Ensure efficient data modeling, storage, and access patterns across platforms.


CI/CD & Platform Engineering
  • Architect and standardize CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins and modern DevOps practices.
  • Drive adoption of automation-first principles across build, test, and deployment workflows.
  • Promote DevSecOps best practices and governance controls.


Cloud & Containerization
  • Lead adoption and architecture for Kubernetes-based platforms and containerized applications.
  • Influence cloud strategy across AWS/Azure/GCP environments (where applicable).
  • Drive platform modernization and cost optimization initiatives.


Performance, Reliability & Scalability
  • Establish frameworks for performance engineering, monitoring, and SLO/SLI definition.
  • Lead root cause analysis of critical production issues and define systemic improvements.
  • Ensure systems meet enterprise-grade resiliency and recovery requirements.


Mentorship & Talent Development
  • Mentor senior engineers and leads, raising the overall technical bar of the organization.
  • Drive knowledge sharing, standards adoption, and engineering excellence initiatives.
  • Serve as a role model for engineering best practices and problem-solving.


Cross-Functional Influence
  • Collaborate with product, architecture, data governance, and operations teams.
  • Contribute to enterprise-wide initiatives such as data governance, platform modernization, and integration strategies.
  • Influence prioritization and decision-making at the program and portfolio level.


Documentation & Governance
  • Define standards for technical documentation, architecture reviews, and design governance.
  • Ensure compliance with enterprise policies, data governance, and security standards.


Technical Skills
  • Expert-level proficiency in Python, Oracle database development, and distributed systems design
  • Deep expertise in CI/CD (Jenkins), Kubernetes, and containerization
  • Strong experience with data engineering, large-scale data processing, and data pipelines
  • Advanced knowledge of database performance optimization and data modeling
  • Strong understanding of cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP) and modern architecture patterns
  • Experience in enterprise architecture, system integration, and platform engineering


Leadership & Behavioral Competencies
  • Strategic thinker with ability to connect technical decisions to business outcomes
  • Strong influence skills across teams without direct authority
  • Exceptional problem-solving and system-level thinking
  • Excellent communication skills, including ability to engage with senior leadership and stakeholders


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in Agile/Scrum at scale (SAFe or similar frameworks)
  • Background in enterprise data platforms, data governance, or financial systems
  • Relevant certifications in cloud, Kubernetes, database technologies, or DevOps tools


Education
Bachelor's: Business Administration, Bachelor's: Computer and Information Science (Required), Bachelor's: Computer Engineering

Work Experience
General Experience - More than 15 years

Certifications

Travel
Less than 25%

Workstyle
Hybrid

The total compensation for this position includes base salary or wages, and may include components such as additional compensation (cash or equity), discretionary bonuses, or commissions. This position is eligible for a benefits package that may include medical, dental, and vision; life insurance; critical illness insurance and accident insurance; disability benefits; retirement savings; paid time off (including vacation, holidays, and sick leave); and parental leave. Eligibility for benefits and specific offerings may vary based on position and employment status. To view more details of the benefits offered, visit Myrjbenefits.com.

About Raymond James Financial, Inc

The Raymond James Technology and Communications Investment Banking Group is a committed and thoughtful partner that provides a full range of investment banking services and best practices. The group is comprised of experienced professionals that have extensive investment banking expertise. They leverage the industry expertise of Raymond James' award-winning research department. The group focuses on key sectors within technology and communications including: communications software, communication towers, defense electronics, enterprise software, internet infrastructure services, homeland security, IT services, mobile technology, semiconductors, software-as-a-service, telecommunications equipment, telecommunications infrastructure and support services, and wireless & wireline telecommunications services. They take pride in a client-centric approach to M&A, with focus on delivering independent solutions that creates value for the long term. The outcome of this unique approach may be seen in the successful transactions of their clients, including over 80 public offerings totaling $17 billion and over 85 strategic advisory transactions totaling over $5 billion in value since 1998.

Raymond James Financial, Inc Careers

Join the vibrant team at Raymond James Financial, Inc, a leading financial services company where innovation, leadership, and professional growth are at the forefront of our operations. As a hub of diversity and expertise, Raymond James offers unparalleled job opportunities that propel your career to new heights. Work You’ll Do At Raymond James Financial, Inc, you’ll collaborate with some of the most talented professionals in the financial industry. Our team is dedicated to providing strategic financial solutions and advice to our clients, helping them achieve their financial goals while fostering economic growth. With a culture rooted in leadership and diversity training, Raymond James is the perfect place to enhance your skills and thrive professionally. Join our market-leading team to assist a diverse range of clients, from individuals to large corporations, in navigating their financial planning with precision and innovative strategies. Lead in a role where your expertise directly influences the success and stability of our clients' financial futures. Work with a dynamic team of advisors and experts who are committed to pushing the boundaries of the financial sector through continuous innovation and exceptional client service. Raymond James Financial, Inc Job Opportunities Introducing the Raymond James Career Development Program We are committed to nurturing talent through our comprehensive career development program designed to provide every employee—from interns to senior leaders—with the tools and training necessary for success. Whether you’re just starting out with an internship or you’re a seasoned professional, Raymond James offers career paths that align with your ambitions and skills. Do Innovative Work Join a company where innovation is part of the daily routine. At Raymond James Financial, Inc, you’ll engage with cutting-edge financial tools and resources that keep you ahead in the industry. Our commitment to technology and innovation ensures that we stay at the forefront of financial services. Be Part of a Great Team Experience a collaborative environment where teamwork and networking are encouraged. Our inclusive culture supports diversity and offers benefits that ensure the well-being of all team members. At Raymond James, you’re not just an employee; you’re part of a family that values your unique contributions and supports your professional journey. Future-Proof Your Career Advance your career with Raymond James, where opportunities for growth are abundant. Benefit from our industry-leading training programs and gain certifications that will elevate your professional standing. With a focus on career longevity and satisfaction, Raymond James ensures that your professional journey is as rewarding as it is successful. Explore Discover the various positions available at Raymond James Financial, Inc that match your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring across multiple disciplines, eager to welcome passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions at Raymond James Financial, Inc and find the perfect match for your career aspirations. Explore a range of opportunities from financial advising to corporate roles that align with your professional skills and goals. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights—all from the professionals who thrive at Raymond James. Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities waiting for you at Raymond James Financial, Inc. Join Raymond James Financial, Inc today and be part of a company that values innovation, leadership, and professional growth. Your future in the financial industry starts here.
Learn more about Raymond James Financial, Inc
Size
15,000 employees
Market Cap
$22.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$862 million
5 Year Trend
+11.6%
Revenue
$8.3 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Raymond James Financial, Inc

More Enterprise Technology Jobs

Find similar Principal Engineer, Data Engineering jobs: