Frontline AI- Principal Software Engineer

Overview: At Zebra, we are a community of innovators who come together to create new ways of working. United by curiosity and a culture of caring, we develop smart solutions that anticipate our customer’s and partner’s needs and solve their challenges. Being part of Zebra Nation means you are seen, heard, valued, and respected. Drawing from our unique perspectives, we collaborate to deliver on our purpose. Here you are part of a team pushing boundaries today to redefine the work of tomorrow for organizations, their employees, and those they serve. You’ll have opportunities to learn and lead in a forward-thinking environment, defining your path to a fulfilling career while channeling your skills toward causes you care about—locally and globally. Come make an impact every day at Zebra. What We're Looking For: As a Frontline AI Principal Software Engineer, you will be responsible for leading the architecture, design, and development of software solutions for the organization’s most complex and high impact projects. Drives long-term technical strategies, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and competitive industry trends. Operates under consultative direction, setting and pursuing courses of action essential to achieve long-range business goals. Serves as a technical expert and mentor, influencing the organization’s technical direction and fostering innovation. Location- ***Role is required to be onsite in Holtsville, NY OR Lincolnshire, IL office (Hybrid- Minimum of 3 days in the office per week). Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Architects, designs, and oversees the development of software solutions for highly complex technical projects, specifically targeting customer-facing multi-platform applications (React Native, web), deep Android capabilities (background services, camera integrations), and robust backend data integrations. • Engineers intelligent application and Android framework architectures that leverage the latest developments from Google. Continuously monitors and experiments with the newest AI edge developments and modern OS concepts (such as App Functions) to keep our solutions at the industry's cutting edge. • Creates detailed software specifications and leads the technology roadmap process, recommending project approaches and long-term goals for data capture, mobile architecture, and edge AI processing. • Champions innovation and cultivates creativity among team members, fostering an environment that attracts and retains top talent. • Leads and advises on all aspects of the software development lifecycle, prioritizing modular, maintainable architectures, quality, and continuous improvement. • Monitors competitor products and development strategies, ensuring the organization’s mobile and vision designs exceed industry standards. • Develops next-generation technologies and solutions (e.g., integrating GenAI SDKs, advanced OCR, and on-device ML workflows) in collaboration with other engineering disciplines, anticipating and addressing client needs before the competition. • Protects intellectual property by analyzing competitor patents and contributing to related organizational initiatives. • Serves as a strategic thought leader for both the organization and our customers, representing Zebra as a spokesperson on specialized projects, developer blueprints, and next-generation enterprise architectures. • Serves as a thought leader, representing the organization as a spokesperson on specialized projects, developer blueprints, and reference applications. • Establishes formal networks and coordinates efforts across teams and organizational units to achieve shared objectives. • Acts as a prime consultant and advisor for projects impacting the organization’s long-term technical and business goals. • Provides strategic mentorship to senior engineers and management, fostering knowledge sharing and technical excellence in modern development tools. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a related technical field 10+ years of professional experience OR 7+ years of experience with a master's degree Experience in software architecture, system design, and scalable software solutions bridging enterprise-level backend systems with modern client applications. In-depth knowledge of core native mobile development (Android Kotlin/Java, deep background services, OS internals, Camera/Media APIs) and multi-platform/web frameworks (React Native). Strong foundational knowledge of applied computer vision, edge AI, and ML integration (image preprocessing, OCR, barcode decoding, TensorFlow Lite). Proficiency in advanced software development methodologies and pragmatic experience adopting GenAI/AI-assisted tools within the Software Development Lifecycle. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree preferred. • Proven ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams and drive complex, high-impact projects from prototype to production. Strong strategic thinking skills, with a focus on long-term technical architecture and business goals. Exceptional innovation and creativity in solving complex challenges (e.g., barcode-vs-OCR trade-offs, real-time memory/latency constraints) and developing novel enterprise solutions. Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop technical talent, fostering a culture of learning and growth Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with experience engaging with senior leadership and external enterprise customers. Familiarity with intellectual property protection, competitor analysis, and industry trends. Cross-Functional Collaboration experience Strategic Mindset: A keen awareness of the competitive landscape in mobile AI and the ability to translate that knowledge into a forward-looking technical strategy. Location- ***Role is required to be onsite in Holtsville, NY OR Lincolnshire, IL office (Hybrid- Minimum of 3 days in the office per week). Come join our team! Position Specific Information: • Travel Requirements: Up to 15% • Able to Telework?: Hybrid Equal Opportunity Employer: Zebra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability and protected veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law. If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance in applying for a position, please contact us at workplace.accommodations@zebra.com. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf Conozca sus Derechos: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRightsSp_10_20.pdf We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation at workplace.accommodations@zebra.com . Pay Range: $138,800.00 - $208,200.00 Annual Incentive Compensation: In addition to base pay, Zebra offers this role the opportunity to earn a performance-based annual cash incentive, at a target equal to 15% of base pay, in accordance with the terms of the applicable incentive plan. Zebra Total Rewards: Zebra Total Rewards includes more than just pay and is structured to meet the needs of our changing global business and evolving talent. We are committed to providing our employees with a benefits program that is comprehensive and competitive – including healthcare, wellness, inclusion networks, and continued learning and development offerings. We offer community service days, in addition to the traditional insurances, compensation, parental leave, employee assistance program and paid time off offerings depending on the country where you work. Salary offered will vary depending on your l