Principal Software Engineer, Developer Tools (US West Coast)

## About the Role The Principal Software Engineer position at Docker is a unique opportunity to define the technical vision and architecture for the company's internal Developer Tools team. This role entails leading the technical strategy across multiple interconnected pillars, including Platform Engineering & Self-Service, CI/CD & Build Systems, with a focus on modernizing the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) through the integration of AI. The successful candidate will be responsible for establishing the long-term technical vision and architecture for Docker's developer tooling platform, spanning platform engineering, CI/CD, and AI-powered tools.

As a technical leader, the Principal Software Engineer will partner with engineering leadership across Docker, principal engineers, Security, Infrastructure, and service teams to author the SDLC tenets and build the mechanisms those tenets run through. This involves designing and building the internal developer platform that empowers teams across Docker to rapidly scaffold, prototype, deploy, and operate their own services and tools. The role also includes defining Docker's technical approach to continuous integration, delivery, and build infrastructure, establishing architectural standards for pipeline tooling, GitOps deployment patterns, build substrate, and release engineering.

Reporting to the Sr Manager of Developer Tools, the Principal Software Engineer will collaborate closely with engineering leadership, product engineering teams, platform teams, and ultimately customers as internal tools evolve into product offerings. This position requires a deep understanding of the nuances of internal platforms, including designing for adoption, integrating into existing workflows, and earning trust through data.

## What You Will Do - Define the long-term technical vision and architecture for Docker's developer tooling platform - Lead the authoring of SDLC tenets in partnership with other principal engineers, Security, and Infrastructure - Establish architectural patterns, technical standards, and best practices across the developer tooling stack - Design highly available, scalable, and secure systems - Collaborate with engineering leadership to build the mechanisms that underpin the SDLC tenets - Develop and maintain a deep understanding of the current technology landscape and trends in developer tooling - Influence the technical direction of the engineering teams through mentorship and leadership - Participate in design and code reviews, ensuring high-quality implementation - Work closely with the product engineering teams to ensure alignment between internal tools and product offerings - Develop strategies for measuring the success and adoption of internal tools and platforms

## What We Are Looking For - Technical leader with experience in developer tooling, platform engineering, and systems design - Strong opinions on what makes developer tools great, with a focus on invisible by default, indispensable once adopted, and measurable in existing workflows - Deep experience across the breadth of the developer tooling stack, including CI/CD, build systems, observability infrastructure, and developer platforms - Working knowledge of LLM integration and AI agent development - Understanding of the nuances of internal platforms, including designing for adoption and integrating into existing workflows - Exceptional judgment on when to build custom solutions versus integrate existing tools - Comfort navigating a rapidly evolving landscape across AI and developer infrastructure - Ability to balance technical excellence with pragmatism, shipping iteratively while maintaining high quality bars - Experience leading through influence and mentorship, elevating the technical capabilities of the engineering organization

## Nice to Have - Experience with Docker products and technologies - Knowledge of cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) - Familiarity with agile development methodologies and version control systems (Git) - Experience with security and compliance in software development - Certification in software engineering or a related field

## Benefits and Perks - Competitive salary and equity package - Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance - Generous PTO policy and flexible work arrangements - Professional development opportunities, including training and conference sponsorships - Access to the latest technologies and tools - Remote work stipend and home office setup support - Collaborative and dynamic work environment - Opportunities for career growth and advancement - Recognition and rewards for outstanding performance

- Tip: Highlight your experience with platform engineering, CI/CD, and AI integration to stand out in your application.

• Ensure your portfolio includes examples of designing and building internal developer platforms and CI/CD systems.
• Be prepared to discuss your approach to balancing technical excellence with pragmatism and your experience with iterative shipping.
• Research Docker's products and technologies to demonstrate your knowledge and interest in the company's mission.
• Practice discussing your technical vision and architecture for developer tooling platforms, and be ready to provide specific examples from your experience.
• Consider reaching out to current or former Docker employees for insights into the company culture and the role.
• Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's approach to AI integration, platform engineering, and the future of developer tooling.