Amtrak

Principal Software Engineer (Java) - Washington DC, Philly, Wilmington, Chicago

Amtrak • $124K — $161K *
Information Technology
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 7+ years of software engineering experience focusing on Java-based applications.
  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent education/experience.
  • Expertise in Java, Spring Boot, REST APIs, and microservices.
  • Hands-on experience with AWS services like Lambda, Kinesis, and S3.
  • Strong knowledge of J2EE technologies including Hibernate and JMS.
  • Experience with modern CI/CD tools and automated testing frameworks.
  • Proficient in front-end frameworks like React or Angular.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and support enterprise applications and APIs using Java and AWS.
  • Lead technical design and architecture discussions for modernization.
  • Build and support cloud-native microservices and backend services.
  • Collaborate with Agile teams to deliver software using CI/CD and DevOps practices.
  • Provide production support and drive root cause analysis for complex issues.
  • Maintain architecture documentation and ensure adherence to development standards.
  • Evaluate operational feasibility and lead technical direction for solutions.

Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401K with employer match.
  • Generous paid time off and wellness programs.
  • Paid family leave and caregiving days.
  • Tuition and education reimbursement options.
  • Commuter and flexible spending accounts.
  • Access to financial advisor sessions and employee assistance programs.
Full Job Description
Job Summary

Digital analyzes, designs, develops, and delivers complex digital software solutions that support critical business capabilities. This role serves as a senior technical escalation point for operational support, ensuring timely resolution of complex issues and long-term system stability. The position provides continuous technical oversight across the project lifecycle and collaborates closely with project managers, business system analysts, IT service owners, architects, and engineering leads to drive the analysis, design, and delivery of high-quality technical solutions aligned with business and technology strategies.

Essential Functions

  • Design, develop, and support enterprise applications and APIs using Java, Spring Boot, and AWS cloud services.
  • Lead technical design, code reviews, architecture discussions, and modernization initiatives.
  • Develop and maintain cloud-native, microservices-based, and event-driven solutions.
  • Build and support REST/SOAP integrations and mission-critical backend services.
  • Collaborate with Agile teams to deliver high-quality software using CI/CD, test automation, and DevOps practices.
  • Provide production support, troubleshoot complex issues, and drive root cause analysis and remediation.
  • Leverage GitHub Copilot and AI-assisted development tools to improve engineering productivity and code quality.
  • Lead software development, ensuring clear requirements, documented methodology, and unit testing to deliver code as designed; design sustainable architecture.
  • Evaluate operational feasibility through analysis, problem definition, requirements, and solution development; lead technical direction and decisions.
  • Collaborate with enterprise architects and infrastructure teams to integrate applications and hardware, ensuring designs and implementations meet security and QA standards.
  • Maintain updated documentation for architectures, designs, and system descriptions; ensure development teams adhere to standards for methodologies, integration, tools, and testing.
  • Prepare and install solutions by designing system specifications and standards, follow Information Security standards, and provide technical guidance, reports, and presentations for senior management.


Minimum Qualifications

  • 7+ years of software engineering experience with a strong focus on Java-based enterprise applications.
  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of education, training and/or relevant experience.
  • Expertise in Java, Spring Boot, REST APIs, microservices, and object-oriented design.
  • Hands-on experience with AWS services such as Lambda, Kinesis, DynamoDB, Aurora, Redshift, S3, IAM, SNS/SQS, and CloudWatch.
  • Strong experience with J2EE technologies including Hibernate, JMS, JDBC, Servlets, and web services.
  • Proficiency with Oracle/SQL, messaging technologies (MQ/Kafka), JSON/XML, and enterprise integration patterns.
  • Experience with GitHub and/or GitLab, SonarQube, JUnit, CI/CD pipelines, and automated testing frameworks.
  • Experience with modern JavaScript frameworks (React, Angular, or similar) and full-stack application development.
  • Strong knowledge of security principles, authentication/authorization frameworks, encryption, and secure coding practices.
  • Experience working in Agile/SAFe environments with strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of education, training and/or relevant experience.
  • Plus 9 years of relevant work experience.
  • Experience in the payments, financial services, travel, or e-commerce industries.
  • Knowledge of payment gateway integrations such as Cybersource, ACI, Stripe, Adyen, PayPal, or similar platforms.
  • Understanding of payment processing, authorization, settlement, tokenization, fraud prevention, and reconciliation.
  • Familiarity with PCI-DSS compliance and secure payment application development.
  • Experience supporting high-volume, customer-facing transaction systems requiring high availability and resiliency.


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Deep expertise in web, cloud, and mobility with strong knowledge of core internet technologies
  • Excellent documentation and communication skills, including articulating complex architectures effectively
  • Highly proficient in algorithms, data structures, design patterns, and programming languages
  • Expertise in frontend, backend, mobile app development, or cloud platform services
  • Extensive experience with Agile methodologies, ability to work under deadlines, and understanding of business operations and systems requirements processes


Environmental Conditions/Physical Demands

The salary/hourly range is $124,600.00 - $161,352.00. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, etc. Depending on an employee's assigned worksite or location, Amtrak may consider a geo-pay differential to be applied to the employee's base salary. Amtrak may offer additional incentive and pay programs to recognize and reward our employees, including a short-term incentive bonus based upon factors such as individual and company performance that is commensurate with the level of the position.
Health and WellbeingFinancial and RetirementWork and Family Life SupportHealth, Dental, and Vision Insurance401K with Employer MatchGenerous Paid Time Off Wellness ProgramsRailroad Retirement BenefitsPaid Caregiving Days and Backup CareHealth Savings AccountPublic Service Student Loan ForgivenessFertility and Family Building BenefitsNo-cost Personal Health AdvocateStudent Loan AssistanceAdoption and Surrogacy AssistanceMedical Plan Opt-out CreditTuition and Education ReimbursementPaid Family Leave Life InsuranceRail Pass Privileges Short- and Long-term Disability InsuranceEmployee Assistance Program No-cost Financial Advisor SessionsCommuter and Flexible Spending Accounts
Learn more about our benefits offerings here.

Requisition ID:167116
Work Arrangement:06-Onsite 4/5 Days Click here for more information about work arrangements at Amtrak.
Relocation Offered:No
Travel Requirements:Up to 25%

About Amtrak

Discover the wealth of opportunities awaiting you with Amtrak, the nation's premier passenger rail service. Learn about the high-paying positions and the benefits of joining a mission-driven organization committed to connecting communities.

Amtrak's Legacy and Mission

Since its inception in 1971, Amtrak has been at the forefront of connecting cities and communities across North America with its extensive network of passenger rail services. Born from the need to revitalize the nation's train transportation system, Amtrak has grown into a symbol of national pride and technological advancement in public transport. With a steadfast commitment to safety, efficiency, and reliability, Amtrak's mission transcends mere transportation; it aims to create a more connected society. Through continuous investment in the modernization of its fleet and infrastructure, Amtrak demonstrates an unwavering dedication to enhancing the passenger experience and setting the standard for rail travel in North America.

Why Choose Amtrak?

Choosing a career with Amtrak means more than joining a leading transportation company; it represents a commitment to fostering safety, driving innovation, and serving the community. Amtrak stands out as an employer for its holistic approach to employee development, offering a supportive environment where safety is paramount—not just for passengers but for every team member. Innovation is at the core of Amtrak's operations, where cutting-edge technology and creative solutions are embraced to improve service and efficiency. Moreover, a career at Amtrak is an opportunity to contribute to a service that plays a crucial role in the lives of millions, enhancing connectivity and accessibility while upholding values of environmental stewardship and community service. Whether you're passionate about engineering, customer service, or logistics, Amtrak offers a dynamic and rewarding work setting where you can make a tangible impact.

Amtrak's Hiring Process

Visit Amtrak’s official website to gain insights into the steps to join Amtrak, from application to acceptance.

Application Submission

Submitting a standout application that captures your qualifications and enthusiasm for rail service. You can find tips on how to write a resume that makes employers want to interview you here.

The Interview Process

Amtrak uses a unique interview process to screen candidates. For more details on the exact stages, visit their official website and contact their human resources department. For more general tips about how to prepare for a successful interview, go here.

Background Checks and Final Steps

Amtrak prioritizes the safety of its passengers and employees. That means certain candidates may be required to complete a background check before they begin working. Visit Amtrak’s official website for more information about which specific roles may require a background check.

Employee Benefits and Perks

Amtrak careers are not just rewarding in terms of salary but in overall well-being. Discover the comprehensive benefits package that makes Amtrak such an excellent employer.

Health and Wellness

Contact Amtrak’s human resources department for details on Amtrak's health, dental, and vision plans, emphasizing the commitment to employee health.

Retirement and Financial Planning

Full-time employees at Amtrak often take advantage of the retirement planning options available to them. Explore the 401(k) plans, pension options, and financial planning services available to employees by contacting Amtrak’s HR department.

Work-Life Balance

Amtrak currently has initiatives in place to support a healthy work-life balance, including flexible scheduling and paid time off. Visit their website for more details.

Training and Development Programs

Unveil the pathways for professional growth through Amtrak's dedicated training and development offerings.

Onboarding for Success

Amtrak ensures new hires are welcomed, oriented, and prepared for their roles.

Continuous Learning Opportunities

Ongoing education and training programs designed to advance your skills and career are available for ambitious employees. Consult with Amtrak’s HR department for more specific details.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Amtrak is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that values and respects diversity.

Building a Diverse Workforce

Amtrak's strategies and programs are aimed at fostering diversity within its team.

Inclusion in the Workplace

Initiatives to ensure all employees feel valued, included, and empowered to contribute fully.

Career Growth Opportunities at Amtrak

Amtrak offers upward mobility and career advancement paths to ambitious and talented professionals.

From Entry-Level to Leadership

Amtrak thrives because of ambitious employees who take advantage of the potential for growth within the company. The right person can start at an entry-level and advance to leadership positions at Amtrak.

Specialized Career Tracks

Some specialized roles within Amtrak offer unique challenges and rewards, including technical and leadership positions.

Embark on a Rewarding Journey with Amtrak Careers

Choosing Amtrak as the next step in your career path offers more than just a job—it opens the door to a world of opportunities where your growth, well-being, and success are at the forefront. Amtrak careers are synonymous with a commitment to excellence, not only in transportation but in fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. At Amtrak, employees are valued as the most crucial asset, a belief that is reflected in the comprehensive benefits, continuous learning opportunities, and career advancement programs designed to elevate your professional journey.
Learn more about Amtrak
Size
20,000 employees
Industry
Founded
1971

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