Lead Software Engineer - Python

Location: Jersey City, NJ, United States

Job Family: Software Engineering

About the Role

At JP Morgan Chase, we are at the forefront of financial services innovation, powering everything from global payments to investment banking through cutting-edge technology. As a Lead Software Engineer - Python on our mission-critical team in Jersey City, NJ, you will play a pivotal role in developing and leading backend systems that ensure the reliability and efficiency of our core financial operations. This position offers the chance to work on high-impact projects that directly influence the bank's ability to serve millions of clients worldwide, leveraging Python to build scalable, secure applications in a dynamic regulatory landscape. In this leadership role, you will guide a team of engineers in designing robust backend solutions using Python, focusing on areas like real-time transaction processing, risk assessment models, and secure data integration. You will collaborate closely with stakeholders across trading, compliance, and product teams to translate complex financial requirements into technical architectures. Responsibilities include architecting microservices, optimizing for performance under high loads, and ensuring all developments comply with stringent industry standards such as SOX and PCI-DSS, all while fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within JP Morgan's engineering community. We value engineers who thrive in fast-paced environments and are passionate about the intersection of technology and finance. This role provides exposure to advanced tools and methodologies, with opportunities for career growth in one of the world's leading financial institutions. Join us to make a tangible difference in the global economy, supported by a collaborative team and comprehensive resources tailored to your professional success.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and maintenance of backend Python applications supporting JP Morgan Chase's core financial platforms
• Mentor and guide a team of software engineers, fostering best practices in code quality and collaboration
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including product managers, data scientists, and compliance officers to deliver mission-critical features
• Optimize system performance and scalability to handle high-frequency trading and real-time financial data processing
• Implement robust security measures and ensure adherence to financial regulations in all code deployments
• Conduct code reviews, troubleshoot complex issues, and drive continuous improvement in engineering processes
• Integrate third-party APIs and services to enhance JP Morgan's digital banking and investment tools
• Contribute to architectural decisions for microservices-based systems in a cloud-native environment
• Monitor application health and lead incident response for production systems impacting financial operations
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and recommend innovations to improve efficiency in financial services

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field; advanced degree preferred
• 8+ years of professional software engineering experience with a focus on backend development
• Proven leadership experience in guiding engineering teams and mentoring junior developers
• Strong proficiency in Python and experience with scalable backend systems in a financial services environment
• Experience with mission-critical applications handling high-volume financial transactions
• Knowledge of regulatory compliance standards such as GDPR, SOX, and financial industry regulations
• Ability to obtain necessary security clearances for working with sensitive financial data

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in agile methodologies and CI/CD pipelines within a large-scale enterprise like JP Morgan Chase
• Familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS or Azure for deploying financial applications
• Prior work in risk management, trading systems, or payment processing at a major bank
• Certifications in Python (e.g., PCAP) or cloud technologies (e.g., AWS Certified Developer)
• Master's degree or MBA with a focus on finance or technology

Required Skills

• Expertise in Python programming and frameworks like Django or Flask
• Proficiency in SQL and NoSQL databases for financial data management
• Experience with RESTful APIs and microservices architecture
• Knowledge of containerization tools like Docker and orchestration with Kubernetes
• Strong understanding of data structures, algorithms, and system design
• Familiarity with version control systems such as Git
• Skills in automated testing and CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins or similar
• Understanding of cybersecurity principles for financial applications
• Leadership and communication skills for team management
• Problem-solving abilities in high-pressure, time-sensitive environments
• Experience with cloud computing (AWS, Azure) for scalable deployments
• Analytical mindset for optimizing performance in trading systems
• Adaptability to agile development practices
• Attention to detail for compliance and error-free code
• Collaboration skills for working with global teams at JP Morgan Chase

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and performance-based bonuses aligned with financial industry standards
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance with low employee premiums
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with generous company matching contributions
• Paid time off including vacation, sick days, and parental leave
• Professional development opportunities through JP Morgan's internal training programs and tuition reimbursement
• Employee stock purchase plan and access to financial wellness resources
• On-site fitness centers, wellness programs, and mental health support services
• Relocation assistance for moves to Jersey City, NJ, including housing support

JP Morgan Chase is an equal opportunity employer.