Lead Software Engineer

Location: New York, United States (Hybrid: Three days a week at Guardian locations in New York, NY, Holmdel, NJ, or Bethlehem, PA)

Why Join Guardian Life?

At Guardian Life, we're more than an insurance company—we're a purpose-driven organization committed to inspiring well-being for our customers, colleagues, and communities. As a Lead Software Engineer, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping our most critical customer-facing digital experiences. Join a collaborative team of innovators who are modernizing web applications in a cloud-native environment, delivering scalable solutions that drive real business impact.

Guardian offers unmatched flexibility, professional growth, and a supportive culture. Enjoy skill-building programs, leadership development, and philanthropic opportunities while being surrounded by diverse colleagues with high ethical standards. Explore our comprehensive benefits designed for your well-being.

Role Description

In this leadership position, you'll guide engineering teams to build scalable, performant web applications in modern cloud environments. Collaborate with engineers, product managers, UI/UX designers, business leaders, and data experts to create best-in-class digital experiences. If you thrive on innovation, problem-solving, and launching products that matter, this Lead Software Engineer role at Guardian Life is your opportunity to make a difference.

Detailed Responsibilities

• Lead and Innovate: Spearhead the development of resilient, high-performance public-facing web applications with proven business impact.
• Architect Solutions: Design and implement creative technical solutions to solve complex business problems using modern tools and practices.
• Collaborate Cross-Functionally: Partner with technical and non-technical teams—including product, design, marketing, and strategy—to bring solutions to life.
• Drive Precision: Align technical decisions with business goals and strategies to deliver targeted, effective solutions.
• Optimize Performance: Master web fundamentals, tune core web vitals, and integrate APIs (REST/GraphQL) with third-party systems.
• Champion Best Practices: Implement CI/CD pipelines, testing frameworks (Jest), build tools, and security protocols like OWASP for handling PII data.
• Launch Excellence: Deploy microservices, micro-frontends, and cloud-based applications (AWS) in Agile environments that you're proud to showcase.
• Mentor Teams: Guide junior engineers, foster a culture of excellence, and ensure high standards in code quality and delivery.

Required Skills

Guardian Life seeks a Lead Software Engineer with hands-on expertise in cutting-edge technologies. Key skills include:

• 6+ years leading engineering teams on customer web experiences
• Expertise in JavaScript/TypeScript (Node.js, React, Next.js, NestJS, Jest)
• Advanced API development (REST, GraphQL) and third-party integrations
• Proficiency in Redis, micro-frontends, microservices
• Deep knowledge of web fundamentals (vanilla JS, HTML, CSS, core web vitals)
• Experience with Agile methodologies, CI/CD, AWS
• Strong security practices (OWASP, PII handling)
• Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and people skills

Education & Experience

• BA/BS in Computer Science or equivalent relevant experience
• Proven track record delivering complex applications in collaborative, Agile settings
• Demonstrated leadership in high-impact digital projects

Compensation Overview

Salary Range: $118,980 - $195,465 annually (base pay for primary New York location). Actual salary based on education, experience, knowledge, and abilities. Eligible for annual, sales, or other incentives.

Benefits at Guardian Life

Guardian is committed to your well-being with flexible, inclusive benefits for full-time employees:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match and financial wellness programs
• Generous paid time off, parental leave, and flexible work arrangements
• Professional development, tuition reimbursement, and leadership training
• Wellness programs, employee assistance, and mental health support
• Philanthropic opportunities and community impact initiatives

Equal Employment Opportunity: Guardian is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants considered without regard to age, race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected classifications.

Accommodations: Contact MyHR@glic.com for reasonable accommodations related to disabilities, pregnancy, or medical conditions.

Ready to lead transformative digital experiences? Apply now for this Lead Software Engineer role at Guardian Life and inspire well-being through technology.