At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop a cutting-edge payroll engine with complex data systems.
- Company: Join a leading tech company revolutionising global payroll and payments.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible work options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work in a collaborative team with excellent career advancement opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on payroll accuracy and data integration in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Expertise in Python, Node.js/TypeScript, and PostgreSQL required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
The Stack
- Core Engine & Data: Python (NetworkX, Pydantic, Decimal), PostgreSQL (Bitemporal modeling, dbt for analytics).
- Integrations & Pipelines: Node.js/TypeScript, Event-sourced architecture (Message Queues, Webhooks).
- The Ecosystem: Deep integrations with HRIS/HCMs (Workday, HiBob, BambooHR) and Ebury’s Payments architecture.
- AI-Augmentation: Claude Code for development and AI-driven data extraction.
What You’ll Own (The End-to-End Scope)
- The Calculation Engine: Design the DAG-based resolver and bitemporal logic to handle complex, multi-jurisdictional payroll math with 100% accuracy.
- Data Ingestion & Transformation: Architect the pipelines that ingest messy, unstructured data from fragmented HRIS sources and transform it into our deterministic PayrollRuleSchema.
- Third-Party Integrations: Build robust, API-first connectors and 'Outbox' pattern event systems to sync data across the global HR/Fintech stack.
- The Payment & Reporting Rail: Own the generation of complex output artifacts—from ISO 20022 payment files to localized tax filings and GL (General Ledger) reports.
- Bitemporal Data Strategy: Ensure the entire data lake supports 'As-Of' reporting, allowing users to reconstruct the state of any payroll run at any point in history.
Your Pedigree
- The Full-Stack Backend Mindset: You are equally comfortable optimizing a recursive SQL query as you are designing a resilient webhook listener or a topological sort algorithm.
- Data Pipeline Veteran: You have experience with ETL/ELT patterns, data validation frameworks, and ensuring Exactly-Once processing in financial systems.
- Domain Expertise: You’ve built at Deel, Rippling, Papaya Global or similar Tech-first Global Payroll and Payments company, and you understand that 'Integrations' aren't just about APIs—they’re about mapping conflicting data models across cultures.
- Architectural Leadership: You can bridge the gap between 'Product needs this integration tomorrow' and 'Our data model needs to remain pure for the next 5 years.'
The 'Hard' Requirements
- Deep Polyglot Backend Skills: Expertise in Python (for the engine) and Node.js/TypeScript (for the integration layers).
- PostgreSQL Mastery: You understand bitemporality, window functions, and how to manage schema evolution in a multi-tenant SaaS environment.
- Location: London (Preferred), Madrid, or Malaga (4 days/week in-office).
Principal Engineer — Payroll Engine & Data Systems employer: Ebury
Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and collaboration, where as a Principal Engineer, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of payroll technology. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, we offer continuous learning opportunities and a vibrant work culture that encourages creativity and teamwork. Located in London, our office provides a dynamic environment that fosters professional development while enjoying the perks of city life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer — Payroll Engine & Data Systems
✨Tip Number 1
Network, network, network! Reach out to folks in your industry on LinkedIn or at meetups. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can get you in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those technical interviews by brushing up on your Python and Node.js skills. We recommend doing some mock interviews with friends or using online platforms to simulate the real deal.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your projects! If you've built anything related to payroll systems or data pipelines, make sure to highlight them in your conversations. We love seeing practical applications of your skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate candidates who fit our culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer — Payroll Engine & Data Systems
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match our job description. Highlight your expertise in Python, Node.js, and PostgreSQL, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects or roles that showcase your full-stack backend mindset.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your background aligns with our needs. Be specific about your experience with data pipelines and integrations, and show us how you can contribute to our team.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, give examples of how you've tackled complex challenges in previous roles. Whether it's optimising SQL queries or designing resilient systems, we want to see your thought process and how you approach problem-solving.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to submit all your materials in one go. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our own platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ebury
✨Know Your Tech Stack
Make sure you’re well-versed in the technologies mentioned in the job description, especially Python, Node.js, and PostgreSQL. Brush up on bitemporal data strategies and be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in past projects.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to tackle hypothetical scenarios related to payroll calculations or data ingestion challenges. Think through your approach to designing a DAG-based resolver or handling messy data, and be ready to explain your thought process clearly.
✨Demonstrate Integration Experience
Highlight your experience with third-party integrations, especially with HRIS systems like Workday or BambooHR. Be prepared to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, focusing on the importance of mapping conflicting data models.
✨Communicate Your Architectural Vision
Be ready to articulate how you would balance immediate product needs with long-term data model integrity. Discuss your architectural leadership experiences and how you’ve successfully navigated similar situations in previous roles.
