Lead Engineer

Xero1 weeks ago

Location

CAN: British Columbia Remote

Type

Full Time

Salary

CAD 186,000 – 236,000

Level

Lead

Role

Lead Engineer

Posted

Mar 7, 2026

Full TimeLead

The role

Summary

Xero is seeking an experienced Lead Engineer to drive architectural improvements and scale distributed systems for their global accounting platform. The role focuses on modernizing technical infrastructure, mentoring engineering talent, and contributing to high-performance engineering standards in a collaborative, growth-oriented environment.

What you'll do

System Architecture Modernization: Refactor monolithic components into distributed, scalable architectures to improve system performance and reliability

Developer Experience Enhancement: Mature CI/CD concepts, tooling, and Test-Driven Development (TDD) practices to optimize engineering workflows

Technical Leadership: Make critical code design decisions and contribute to global engineering standards and technical solution designs

Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: Coach and support other engineers, helping them grow their technical skills and overcome complex challenges

Platform Scalability: Ensure the software platform remains robust and reliable for millions of global users through strategic technical improvements

What we look for

Technical

Distributed SystemsProven experience delivering and operating complex, large-scale systems in distributed and high-availability environments

Programming LanguagesStrong background in designing and building high-quality software across multiple languages and tools

Modern Engineering PracticesExpertise in automated testing, refactoring, and agile delivery methodologies

Education

Computer ScienceBachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent professional experience

Experience

Senior Engineering LeadershipDemonstrated ability to lead major code design decisions and contribute to broader technical solutions

Large-Scale System DesignMinimum 5-7 years of experience in designing and maintaining complex software architectures

Skills

Required skills

System ArchitectureAdvanced knowledge of distributed system design and scalable infrastructure

Technical MentorshipStrong skills in coaching and developing engineering talent

Agile MethodologiesProficiency in agile software development practices

Nice to have

Cloud TechnologiesExperience with AWS, Kubernetes, and cloud-native architectures

Full-Stack DevelopmentFamiliarity with C#, .NET, React, and cross-functional technology stacks

Compensation & benefits

Salary

CAD 186,000 – 236,000 (annual)

Stock options

Available

Benefits

Variable Pay

Performance-based commissions or equity compensation

Comprehensive Health Benefits

World-class health, wellness, and retirement programs

Professional Development

Opportunities for continuous learning and skill enhancement

Hybrid Work Model

Flexible working arrangements with options for remote and in-office collaboration

Interview process

1
Initial Screening — Resume and background review by Xero's recruiting team
2
Technical Assessment — Comprehensive evaluation of technical skills and system design capabilities
3
Leadership Interview — Discussion of technical leadership experience and engineering philosophy
4
Team Fit Interview — Meeting with potential team members to assess cultural and collaborative alignment
5
Final Decision — Holistic review of candidate's skills, potential, and alignment with Xero's engineering standards