Principal Software Engineer

OverviewThe Principal Software Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for driving the design, architecture, and delivery of large-scale AI-powered systems across retail platforms.This role leads complex AI initiatives from concept to production, influences engineering direction, and ensures systems are scalable, reliable, and aligned with business outcomes.Overview of ResponsibilitiesAdvanced AI System DesignLead design and development of complex AI/ML systems at scaleTranslate ambiguous business problems into robust system architecturesSelect models and frameworks based on:PerformanceExplainabilityOperational constraintsDefine reusable:AI platformsFrameworksService patternsArchitecture & Technical LeadershipDefine reference architectures for AI and platform systemsLead design for:Distributed systemsReal-time inferenceAgentic workflowsEnsure systems meet:ScalabilityReliabilityCost efficiencyAI Innovation & Retail ImpactIdentify and drive high-impact AI use cases:Store intelligenceAssociate copilotsInventory optimizationBuild:Agentic AI workflowsAutonomous systemsIntelligent decision enginesMLOps & Platform ExcellenceDefine and standardize:Model lifecycle managementMonitoring and observabilityEvaluation frameworksEstablish best practices for:AI governanceResponsible AISystem reliabilityProduct & Business InfluencePartner with Product and Business teams to:Shape technical directionInfluence solution designEnsure alignment with outcomesProvide technical leadership in:Trade-offsFeasibilityScalability decisionsProduction & Operational Leadership (Build + Run)Ensure systems are:Production-readyObservableMaintainableLead resolution of:Critical production issuesSystem performance challengesImprove system resilience and uptimeTechnical Mentorship & InfluenceMentor engineers and technical leadsDrive engineering standards and best practicesInfluence architecture and design across teamsQualifications15+ years of experience in software engineering and 2 years in AI/MLDeep expertise in:Distributed systemsCloud-native architectureAI/ML systemsHands-on experience with:Generative AI / LLMsAgentic AI systemsData pipelinesPreferred QualificationsExperience leading large-scale AI initiativesStrong background in:Real-time systemsHigh-scale platformsAI observabilityCore CompetenciesCommunicationCustomer FocusDriving for ResultsPositive ApproachBenefitsIn addition to a rewarding career, Sprouts offers a comprehensive program to help support you and your family. These programs include:Competitive paySick time plan that you can use to support you or your immediate families healthVacation accrual planOpportunities for career growth15% discount for you and one other family member in your household on all purchases made at SproutsFlexible schedulesEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)401(K) Retirement savings plan with a generous company matchCompany paid life insuranceContests and appreciation events throughout the year full of prizes, food and fun!Eligibility requirements may apply for the following benefits:Bonus based on company and/or individual performanceAffordable benefit coverage, including medical, dental and visionHealth Savings Account with company matchPre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent careCompany paid short-term disability coveragePaid parental leave for both mothers and fathersPaid holidaysGet Paid Every Day!Sprouts Farmers Market offers DailyPay - if you’re hired as an eligible employee, you’ll be able to transfer the money you’ve already earned at no extra cost, and get it the next business day, for free. We offer DailyPay so you don’t have to wait for payday to access the money you’ve already worked for. With DailyPay, you can see how much you’ve made every day and you can transfer your money any time before payday.You can learn more by visiting.Why SproutsGrow with us!If you have a passion for inspiring people and a flair for fresh food, consider applying for a job at Sprouts! With a focus on customer service, our neighborhood grocery stores offer high-quality, farm fresh produce, natural meats, plenty of scoop-your-own bulk goods and much more in a fun, friendly, old-fashioned farmer’s market setting. Come grow your career in healthy living with a fast-paced, rapidly growing company and teams that pride themselves on empowering others along their journey.The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by people assigned to this work. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and requirements. Sprouts’ management reserves the right to amend and change duties, responsibilities, and requirements to meet business and organizational needs as necessary.Sprouts will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance.California Residents: We collect information in accordance with California law, please see here for more information.