Principal Software Engineer (Remote, Africa/Europe)

About the role

OpenFn is looking for a Principal Software Engineer to lead the development of AI‑enhanced public‑service workflows. This full‑time contractor position is fully remote, with a preference for candidates based in Africa or Europe.

Key responsibilities

• Own end‑to‑end feature development across the stack, from data source integration to real‑time debugging.
• Define and implement the UI architecture, including state management, component patterns, build tooling, and design system.
• Collaborate closely with product and design teams to shape both what is built and how it is built.
• Set technical standards through code reviews, architectural guidance, and exemplary engineering practices.
• Mentor other engineers and raise the overall quality of the platform.

Required profile

• 7+ years of software engineering experience with deep expertise in JavaScript.
• Proven experience designing and scaling complex, multi‑user platforms.
• Strong problem‑solving ability and comfort with full‑stack concerns such as APIs, WebSockets, CI/CD, and testing.
• Experience building rich, interactive UIs (e.g., canvas editors, real‑time collaboration).
• Excellent remote communication skills using GitHub, Slack, and Figma.
• Fluent English.

Required skills

• JavaScript
• APIs
• WebSockets
• Build tooling
• CI/CD pipelines
• Automated testing
• GitHub
• Slack
• Figma

What we offer

• Competitive, commensurate compensation.
• Fully remote work with flexible hours.
• Mission‑driven environment backed by philanthropic capital.
• Opportunity to shape public‑service digital transformation at scale.