About this role
Senior Forward Deployed Software Engineer (FDE)
ApplylocationsHoltsville, New YorkLincolnshire, Illinoistime typeFull timeposted onPosted Todayjob requisition idJR102563Overview: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:Spearheads complex deployments of software, architects customized enterprise-grade cloud and android solutions, and works directly with key enterprise customers to resolve high-stakes technical challenges, deployments and drive product success. In this customer-facing role, leverages deep frontline experience to heavily influence internal engineering teams, driving the architectural vision and development of core solutions that proactively address complex customer pain points.Analyzes, designs, develops, and maintains software solutions for the organization’s products and systems. Leads system integration of software and hardware to ensure consistent performance and program reliability. Develops, validates, and tests software functionality and user documentation. Work is evaluated upon completion to ensure objectives and quality standards Determines and develops innovative approaches to solve complex problems, leveraging technical expertise and industry best practices.This role requires a minimum of 3-days per week in either our Holtsville, NY (preferred location) or Lincolnshire, IL office, 2 days remote (US)Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Establishes requirements for moderately complex software design projectsPrioritizes features to ensure the most impactful are implemented firstLeads and participates in code reviews, proactively identifying and addressing issues early in the development processCompletes all phases of moderately complex software design and development projects, including in process and final inspections to meet quality standardsDevelops and tests comprehensive documentation to support software projects, including design specifications, code comments, and user manualsExplores and applies the latest technologies and innovative approaches to enhance software designs and implementationsReviews and refines existing software or firmware designs, identifying opportunities for optimization and improvementProvides recommendations and solutions to technical problems, leveraging expertise across multiple technical domainsMay develop custom tools or scripts to streamline analysis, debugging, or problem solving processesExercises sound judgment in selecting methods and techniques to deliver effective solutions to complex problemsWorks with minimal supervision, receiving general guidance on new assignments and strategic objectivesProvides mentorship and guidance to junior level personnel, including both exempt and non-exempt team membersBuilds strong professional networks with senior internal and external stakeholders, frequently engaging in inter-organizational and customer-focused discussionsForward Deployment Responsibilities:Enterprise Pilot Strategy & Deployment:Lead the hands-on deployment, technical development and validation of Zebra's Android and cloud-based solutions during high-stakes customer pilots. Conduct technical workshops, customize and guide the seamless roll-out of devices and software into live, mission-critical operations.Customer Workflow Optimization & Architecture Review:Act as a key technical consultant by reviewing real-world customer workflows, system use cases, and deployment environments. Analyze the customer's end-to-end software architecture to identify integration bottlenecks and ensure Zebra solutions fit seamlessly within their ecosystem.Hands-on Design, Code, & Troubleshooting:Develop, diagnose, debug, and troubleshoot complex software and device-level issues directly in the field. Actively review, design, and write high-quality code (spanning local Android to backend cloud integrations) to rapidly deploy stable, scalable solutions.Android & Cloud Solution Integration:Bridge the requirements gap in device-side Android applications and cloud solutions. Ensure secure connectivity, robust API integrations, and smooth data exchange between Zebra mobile devices, cloud backends, and existing third-party enterprise databases.AI-Assisted Efficiency:Incorporate modern, Zebra-approved AI coding tools (such as Claude Code) to accelerate troubleshooting, write efficient code, and optimize application performance.Minimum Qualifications:Bachelor's Degree requiredMinimum 5+ years of relevant software engineering experience OR 3+ years of experience with an Advanced DegreeProfessional software engineering experience specializing in full-stack cloud solutions required.A demonstrated ability to proactively take initiative in diagnosing bugs and writing real-time code to resolve complex challenges required.Preferred Qualifications:Advanced degree preferredCommunication: Proven ability to articulate technical concepts and use cases clearly to both engineering teams and non-technical customer stakeholders.AI Adaptation: A forward-thinking mindset with an enthusiasm for leveraging AI-assisted development tools to optimize coding speed and output quality.Technology SkillsBackend: Java, Spring Boot, Hibernate, Node.jsFrontend: JavaScript (ReactJS)Cloud & Tools: Google Cloud (GCP), Docker, Kubernetes, CI/CD, MicroservicesDatabases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, FirebaseAI Tools: GitHub Copilot, Cursor, or Claude CodePreferred: Android Development (Android SDK, Kotlin/Java)Key Skills and Competencies:Proficient in multiple programming languages and software development frameworksStrong understanding of software architecture, design patterns, system-level programming, and adopting GenAI in Software Development LifecycleExperience with software testing strategies, debugging tools, and performance optimization techniques• Ability to evaluate and integrate new technologies into existing software solutionsStrong problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challengesProficiency with version control systems (e.g., Git, GitHub) and familiarity with CI/CD pipelinesExcellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to mentor and influence junior team membersExperience working with cross-functional teams and engaging with external customers or stakeholdersDemonstrated ability to work independently while effectively managing multiple prioritiesBackend: Java, Spring Boot, Node.js (Express/NestJS)Frontend: JavaScript, TypeScript, ReactJSCloud & Tools: Multi-Cloud (GCP, AWS, or Azure), Docker, Kubernetes, CI/CD pipelines, Microservices architectureDatabases: Relational (MySQL/PostgreSQL), NoSQL (MongoDB), Data Warehousing (BigQuery)AI Assisted Development: GitHub Copilot, Cursor, Claude Code, or equivalent AI coding assistantsAdvanced Android Development (Android SDK, Kotlin/Java)Travel Requirements: Up to 25%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. 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 [email protected] .Pay Range:$96,800.00 - $145,200.00 AnnualIncentive Compensation:In addition to base pay,