Lead Engineer

Xero4 days ago

Location

AU: Melbourne: (260 Burwood Rd)

Type

Full Time

Salary

AUD 180,000 – 250,000

Level

Lead

Role

Lead Engineer

Posted

May 21, 2026

Full TimeLead

The role

Summary

A strategic Lead Engineer role at Xero focusing on developing high-performance cloud-native systems, leading complex integration projects, and driving technical excellence across the Practice Engineering team. The role requires exceptional technical leadership in scaling distributed architectures, designing robust .NET and React-based solutions, and collaborating across cross-functional teams.

What you'll do

Technical Leadership: Drive technical strategy and architectural decisions for Xero Practice Engineering team

System Scaling: Scale asynchronous systems from 4 million to 20 million daily events with high performance

Integration Architecture: Develop robust second-party integration approaches using .NET and React technologies

Cloud Infrastructure: Design and optimize Kubernetes-based cloud-native infrastructure with advanced deployment pipelines

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Product, Design, and external partners to align on complex architectural choices

What we look for

Technical

.NET ExpertiseAdvanced proficiency in .NET technology stack and cloud-native architectures

Performance EngineeringExperience designing high-throughput, performant asynchronous systems

Kubernetes SkillsProven experience with Kubernetes environments and cloud infrastructure

Education

Computer ScienceBachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related technical field

Advanced CertificationsCloud architecture or advanced software engineering certifications preferred

Experience

Lead EngineeringMinimum 5-7 years of progressive software engineering experience with 2-3 years in technical leadership roles

System DesignDemonstrated track record of simplifying complex system designs into scalable components

Skills

Required skills

.NET FrameworkDeep technical expertise in .NET technology stack for building enterprise-grade software solutions

Cloud-Native ArchitectureProven experience in designing and implementing scalable cloud-native infrastructure

KubernetesAdvanced knowledge of Kubernetes systems and containerization technologies

Asynchronous SystemsExpertise in designing high-performance, high-throughput asynchronous system architectures

Nice to have

ReactFront-end development experience with React for building interactive user interfaces

System DesignAbility to simplify complex system designs into modular, resilient components

Technical MentorshipStrong coaching and mentoring skills for guiding senior engineering talent

Compensation & benefits

Salary

AUD 180,000 – 250,000 (annual)

Stock options

Available

Benefits

Flexible Work

Hybrid and remote-friendly working environment with modern office spaces

Professional Development

Opportunities for mentorship, technical growth, and cross-functional collaboration

Global Technology Platform

Work on cutting-edge cloud-based accounting software with global impact

Interview process

1
Initial Screening — Phone or video call with recruitment team to assess basic qualifications
2
Technical Interview — In-depth technical discussion covering system design, architecture, and problem-solving skills
3
Leadership Assessment — Evaluation of technical leadership, mentorship capabilities, and cross-functional collaboration skills
4
Final Panel Interview — Meeting with senior engineering leadership to discuss vision, approach, and cultural fit