The Walt Disney Company

Sr Software Engineer

The Walt Disney Company$148K — $199K *
Information Technology
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years in software development focused on enterprise systems and backend services.
  • Proven experience in leading technical efforts through the complete development lifecycle.
  • Expertise in Java and Spring Boot for backend service development.
  • Proficient in SQL with experience in relational databases.
  • Familiar with source control tools such as Git in collaborative settings.
  • Background in Agile methodologies and ceremonies.
  • Skillful in utilizing AI-assisted tools to enhance productivity.

Responsibilities

  • Design and maintain backend services using Java and Spring Boot for real-time data applications.
  • Build event-driven services with Kafka for data ingestion and processing.
  • Optimize data infrastructure using SQL Server and MongoDB.
  • Troubleshoot technical issues across APIs, databases, and services effectively.
  • Support production systems by addressing data and performance issues.
  • Participate in live event support and system rehearsals as needed.
  • Drive modernization of legacy systems towards a service-oriented architecture.

Benefits

  • Collaborative team environment focused on innovation and problem-solving.
  • Opportunity to work on high-visibility live events.
  • Professional development through mentoring and technical guidance opportunities.
  • Flexible participation in a support rotation during critical event preparations.
Full Job Description
Job Posting Title:
Sr Software Engineer

Req ID:


Job Description:

Job Summary:

The Software Engineer plays a key role in the development and support of real-time data systems, APIs, and web applications used across ABC News and Disney platforms. This role involves designing, building, and maintaining modern services, APIs, and applications using technologies such as Spring Boot, Kafka, SQL Server, and MongoDB, with some frontend development in React where needed, as well as contributing to event-driven services that ingest, process, and distribute data from external providers in real time.

As a senior member of the engineering team, you will work across the stack with a primary focus on designing and developing backend APIs and data processing services, while contributing to frontend applications where needed. This role includes responsibility for system performance, reliability, and data accuracy, as well as supporting production systems and troubleshooting complex issues.

In addition to new development, this role will contribute to the ongoing modernization of legacy systems into a modern service-oriented architecture. You will collaborate closely with other developers, product owners, QA, and operations teams in an Agile environment to deliver reliable and maintainable solutions that perform well under real-world production demands.

This team supports systems used during live broadcasts and major news events throughout the year. You will also participate in event preparation and support during these times including scheduled off-hour coverage as part of a team support rotation. This includes participation in a collaborative critical event support environment where engineers, operations, and production teams work together in real time to support high-visibility broadcasts and ensure accurate, reliable data delivery. Engineers are expected to take ownership of the systems they build and support.

This role is well suited for an engineer who enjoys working with data, APIs, and distributed systems and likes solving real-world problems in production environments. The team supports ongoing development and live production operations, so engineers in this role should be comfortable troubleshooting issues, working collaboratively, and supporting systems during important live events.

Responsibilities and Duties of the Role:
  • Design, develop, and maintain backend services and APIs using Java/Spring Boot and related technologies to power data-driven applications that support real-time systems used across ABC News and Disney platforms.
  • Design and build event-driven services and data pipelines that ingest, process, and distribute data from external providers using technologies such as Kafka and related messaging systems.
  • Develop and optimize data tiers and processing logic using SQL Server and NoSQL data stores such as MongoDB.
  • Lead troubleshooting and resolution of technical issues across multiple systems, including data ingest services, APIs, databases, and user interfaces.
  • Own and support production systems by investigating bugs, data issues, and performance bottlenecks, and implementing reliable fixes and improvements.
  • Lead or participate in live event preparation and support, including system testing, simulations, and rehearsals for high-profile events.
  • Help drive the modernization of legacy systems by migrating functionality to modern service-based architecture.
  • Collaborate with product owners, QA, operations, and other engineering teams in an Agile development environment.
  • Lead and participate in code reviews and contribute to development standards, best practices, and technical documentation.
  • Identify and drive improvements in system performance, monitoring, logging, and reliability through continuous improvement and automation.
  • Leverage AI-assisted development tools and AI agent technologies to improve overall SDLC efficiency.
  • Support CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, and deployment processes in coordination with DevOps and QA teams.
  • Work with internal teams and external data providers to support data integration, validation, and issue resolution.


Required Education, Experience/Skills/Training:

Basic Qualifications
  • 5+ years of professional software development experience, including designing and supporting production systems and backend services in an enterprise environment.
  • Experience leading technical efforts or owning features/systems through the full development lifecycle.
  • Experience designing and implementing backend services or APIs using Java and Spring Boot or similar enterprise backend frameworks.
  • Experience working with relational databases and writing SQL queries.
  • Experience working with source control systems such as Git in a collaborative development environment.
  • Experience working in Agile development environments and participating in standard Agile ceremonies.
  • Experience leveraging AI-assisted development tools or AI agent technologies (such as GitHub Copilot, Claude Code, or similar) to improve development productivity and software quality across the software development lifecycle.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with technical and non-technical teams.
  • Ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues across multiple interconnected systems.
  • Experience mentoring or providing technical guidance to other engineers.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working with event-driven or messaging systems such as Kafka or similar technologies.
  • Experience working with NoSQL databases such as MongoDB.
  • Experience building or supporting real-time or data-driven systems.
  • Experience supporting production systems in a live or time-sensitive environment.
  • Experience using AI-assisted development tools, such as GitHub Copilot, to improve productivity, code quality, testing, and documentation.
  • Experience working with external data providers or integrating third-party data services.
  • Experience developing internal web applications using React or similar modern JavaScript frameworks.
  • Experience modernizing or migrating legacy applications to modern architectures.
  • Experience with cloud platforms and containerized deployments (AWS, Docker, Kubernetes).
  • Experience working on systems where data accuracy, reliability, and timeliness are critical.

Required Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience)


The hiring range for this position in NYC is $148,700 - $199,400 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Job Posting Segment:
Content Platforms & Operations

Job Posting Primary Business:
CPO - Content Platforms

Primary Job Posting Category:
Software Engineer

Employment Type:
Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:
New York, NY, USA

Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Date Posted:
2026-05-06

About The Walt Disney Company

The Walt Disney Company started as a cartoon studio and evolves into sports coverage and television shows. Using the company's portfolio of brands to differentiate our content, services, and consumer products, Walt Disney seeks to develop creative, innovative, and profitable entertainment experiences and related products.

The Walt Disney Company Careers

Join the magical world of The Walt Disney Company, a place where dreams come true and imagination meets innovation. As a global leader in entertainment and media, we offer unparalleled job opportunities that invite you to be part of a beloved brand known for its influential culture, diversity, and dynamic growth. Work You’ll Do Embark on a career journey with The Walt Disney Company and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of media and entertainment. Engage in work that matters, contributes to storytelling excellence, and brings joy to millions around the globe. Transform your professional life by joining a team that values creativity, leadership, and visionary thinking. The Walt Disney Company stands at the forefront of industry innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in entertainment and beyond. Lead with us from a unique position in the marketplace, where your skills in technology, creativity, and management converge to create extraordinary experiences. Collaborate with a diverse group of talented professionals, united in their passion for delivering magical experiences. Our team at The Walt Disney Company is composed of over 200,000 dedicated individuals who thrive in an environment that fosters growth, mentorship, and innovation. Introducing The Walt Disney Company Leadership and Professional Growth Programs We are committed to developing leaders who can navigate the challenges of the digital era and drive success across our various business segments. Our leadership programs are designed to hone your skills and prepare you for executive roles within the company. Do Innovative Work Join our team and contribute to projects that redefine the entertainment landscape. From groundbreaking films and television series to pioneering technological advancements, your work at The Walt Disney Company will set new standards in the creative and business worlds. Be Part of a Great Team Experience a culture that is inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking. Work alongside the best in the business and see how diversity and inclusion fuel our creativity and success. The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to a diverse workforce is evident in our hiring practices, training programs, and our everyday operations. Future-Proof Your Career With a wide array of benefits, continuous learning opportunities, and a network of supportive colleagues, your career at The Walt Disney Company is equipped for longevity and success. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health care, employee discounts, and access to exclusive company events and previews. Explore Job Opportunities and Internships Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for your next challenge or a student seeking a transformative internship, The Walt Disney Company offers positions across a spectrum of fields and disciplines. Explore our career portal to find job opportunities that match your skills and passions. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions, apply through our streamlined application process, and take the first step towards a magical career. We look for individuals who are passionate, curious, and eager to contribute to our legacy of storytelling and innovation. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest company news, career tips, and insider perspectives—all from the people who make The Walt Disney Company a place of inspiration and excitement. Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts and updates that align with your career interests. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at The Walt Disney Company. Join us, and be part of the magic that only happens here at The Walt Disney Company!
Learn more about The Walt Disney Company
Size
190,000 employees
Market Cap
$155.1 billion
Industry
Net Income
-$4.9 billion
Founded
1923
5 Year Trend
+3.9%
Revenue
$60.7 billion
NASDAQ

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