Principal Software Engineer

Principal Software Engineer

Company: Upwork

Location: United States (Remote)

Employment Type: Full-time

Salary Range: $195K - $345K per year

About the Role:

Lead the design and development of AI-native product experiences across Upwork’s web and mobile platforms. Drive end-to-end delivery of intelligent, assistive, and adaptive features that enhance the world’s leading work marketplace. Collaborate closely with Product, Design, and AI/ML teams to translate models into user experiences while focusing on architecture, iteration speed, and customer impact.

Responsibilities:

• Build AI-native features using React, React Native, and Node.js.
• Define scalable and safe architectural patterns for AI integration.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to prototype and launch AI tools like agents, copilots, and recommendation systems.
• Deliver trustworthy, performant, and maintainable AI features with customer value and explainability.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship across multiple teams.
• Lead complex cross-functional initiatives from start to finish, resolving ambiguity and aligning stakeholders.
• Shape strategic product direction integrating technical insights and innovation.

Requirements:

• 10+ years of full-stack software engineering experience (React, React Native, Node.js).
• Proven success in leading AI or automation product experiences (LLMs, embeddings, agents, personalization).
• Strong architectural instincts and systems thinking.
• Product-first mindset focused on user value and rapid, high-quality delivery.
• Experience mentoring engineers and driving technical alignment.
• Familiarity with prompt engineering, large-scale experimentation, and AI-integrated UX design.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical coverage
• Unlimited PTO
• 401(k) plan with matching
• 12 weeks paid parental leave
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan