eBay

Principal Software Engineer

eBay$240K — $321K *
Information Technology
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 15+ years of experience in software engineering, focusing on large-scale backend systems.
  • Proven experience designing and building complex systems at massive scale, preferably in e-commerce.
  • Expertise in distributed systems, microservices, and event-driven architectures.
  • In-depth knowledge of high-performance databases (SQL, NoSQL) and data replication techniques.
  • Hands-on experience with building scalable systems and performance tuning for high-traffic applications.
  • Proficient in Java and Kotlin, with a strong grasp of system-level design principles.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead multi-functional projects and mentor engineers at various levels.

Responsibilities

  • Lead architectural vision for software systems with a focus on scalability and reliability.
  • Define and implement the technical strategy for the backend infrastructure.
  • Mentor senior engineers and ensure alignment with architectural standards.
  • Produce high-quality code that sets a standard for others.
  • Translate business requirements into a long-term technical roadmap.
  • Collaborate to solve challenges around performance and high availability.
  • Drive the adoption of best practices in backend engineering.

Benefits

  • Full range of medical, financial, and other benefits.
  • 401(k) eligibility with potential employer match.
  • Paid time off, including PTO and parental leave options.
  • Possibility of target bonuses and stock options.
Full Job Description
Role Summary

The Principal Engineer in the Identity Domain provides senior technical leadership for identity services across the platform. This role defines and evolves enterprise-wide identity and access management (IAM) capabilities, influencing architecture, engineering standards, and execution across multiple teams.

The Principal Engineer sets technical direction for authentication, authorization, and identity federation, drives adoption of modern identity standards, and ensures identity is implemented as a consistent, secure platform capability.

Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership
  • Act as the senior technical authority for identity services across platforms and teams
  • Define and evolve enterprise-wide IAM architecture and engineering standards
  • Design and maintain reference implementations for core identity capabilities
  • Review and influence system designs and code to ensure security, scalability, and correctness


Authentication, Authorization & Access Management
  • Architect and implement OAuth 2.0, OpenID Connect (OIDC), and SAML 2.0 for SSO and federation across hybrid, multi-cloud, and SaaS environments
  • Drive adoption of phishing-resistant, passwordless authentication, including FIDO2, WebAuthn, and Passkeys
  • Define API authorization patterns using JWT and mTLS for service-to-service communication
  • Lead the transition to adaptive, context-aware authorization models (RBAC/ABAC) aligned with Zero Trust principles


Identity Lifecycle & Federation
  • Define and implement automated identity lifecycle management using SCIM
  • Guide teams on unified and federated identity constructs and cross-domain trust models
  • Incorporate global trends in identity and identity verification into platform design and standards


Influence & Mentorship
  • Mentor engineers across teams, raising the bar for identity and security engineering
  • Provide technical guidance to product and platform partners on identity-related decisions
  • Influence roadmaps and priorities through technical leadership and domain expertise


Required Qualifications
  • Extensive experience designing and building identity and access management systems
  • Strong knowledge of identity protocols and standards (OAuth 2.0, OIDC, SAML, SCIM)
  • Experience with federated and unified identity architectures in distributed environments
  • Proven ability to influence technical direction across multiple teams and platforms


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with identity verification, risk-based authentication, or trust signals
  • Familiarity with Zero Trust architectures and adaptive access control models
  • Experience operating identity platforms at scale in regulated or security-sensitive environments


Impact & Scope (Principal Level Alignment)
  • Technical decisions have broad impact across the Identity Domain and adjacent platforms
  • Establishes standards and patterns adopted by multiple teams
  • Recognized as a principal-level domain expert for identity, authentication, and authorization


Additional Details

The base pay range for this position is expected in the range below:
$240,800 - $321,500

Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including location, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a target bonus and restricted stock units (as applicable) in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as PTO and parental leave). Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

About eBay

As a leader in automotive ecommerce, eBay Motors brings you millions of potential customers. Our new simplified listing plans give you unmatched levels of customization and control. So whether you're listing twenty cars a month or an entire lot, you know you're getting the value that you deserve.

eBay Careers

Joining eBay’s dynamic team offers more than just job opportunities; it’s a chance to be part of a global marketplace that values innovation, leadership, and diversity. As a leader in online retail, eBay provides a platform where ambitions flourish and career growth is fostered through comprehensive diversity training and professional development. Work You’ll Do At eBay, we empower you to drive your career path forward with a range of employment options, from internships to full-time positions. Our culture thrives on innovation and the pursuit of excellence in the digital commerce landscape. By joining our team, you’ll collaborate with skilled professionals who are adept at blending technology and creativity to achieve high-impact results. Explore eBay’s Diverse Opportunities Whether you’re starting out with an internship or seeking a leadership role, eBay’s global presence offers vast opportunities for professional growth and networking. Our commitment to diversity and inclusive culture allows every team member to feel valued and motivated. Innovate and Lead At eBay, every position contributes to our mission of creating a more connected and seamless e-commerce experience. We encourage our team to lead projects that challenge the status quo and promote innovation. With eBay, you’re not just filling a role; you’re part of a pioneering company that’s continually reshaping the world of online retail. Benefits and Growth eBay is dedicated to the well-being and development of our employees. We offer competitive benefits, leadership training, and opportunities for career advancement. Investing in our team’s growth is paramount, as they are the driving force behind our success. Join Our Team Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore the job opportunities at eBay where your skills and creativity can shine. We are hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and eager to drive change in the e-commerce industry. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest career tips, company news, and industry insights available through our eBay Careers Blog. Personalize your experience by subscribing to job alert emails that match your career interests and skills. Apply Now Start your journey with eBay today. Search open positions that align with your professional aspirations and submit your resume. Our interview process is designed to understand your capabilities and potential to grow with us. Join eBay and be part of a team that’s committed to creating impactful change in the marketplace. Discover the opportunities waiting for you at eBay – a place where your career can thrive in an environment of innovation and leadership.
Learn more about eBay
Size
10,800 employees
Market Cap
$21.7 billion
Industry
Net Income
$5.6 billion
Founded
1995
5 Year Trend
+2.3%
Revenue
$10.7 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at eBay

More Information Technology Jobs

Find similar Principal Software Engineer jobs: