Principal Technical Architect (Modern Commerce & Headless)

Role Overview

We are seeking a Hands-on Technical Architect to lead our high-stakes legacy-to-modern commerce transformation. In this role, you will be the primary architect responsible for transitioning our ecosystem toward a headless, API-first, and cloud-native architecture.

You will own the end-to-end solution design, bridging the gap between modern frontend experiences (React/Next.js) and robust backend integrations (Kibo Commerce, ERP, OMS). This is a leadership role that requires deep technical "in-the-code" expertise alongside the ability to design complex, scalable distributed systems.

Core Responsibilities

• Architectural Leadership: Lead the strategic migration from legacy monolithic systems to a modern, headless commerce stack.

• End-to-End Design: Design and oversee the integration of the entire commerce ecosystem, including CMS, OMS, ERP, Payments, and POS.

• Frontend Strategy: Define reusable component architectures using React and Next.js, optimizing for performance via SPA, SSR, and ISR patterns.

• Third-Party Integration: Architect seamless connections for critical services including FedEx (Shipping), Loyalty Programs, Gift Cards, and Email Marketing platforms.

• Data & Migration: Orchestrate complex data migration strategies from legacy databases to modern SaaS platforms with zero downtime.

• Technical Governance: Establish best practices for API-first development, cloud-native deployments, and scalable middleware layers.

Technical Qualifications

• Commerce Expertise: Proven experience with Kibo Commerce (or similar enterprise SaaS platforms like commercetools or BigCommerce).

• Modern Frontend Stack: Deep proficiency in React, Next.js, and Node.js. Experience building "Lego-block" style reusable component libraries.

• Headless CMS: Experience implementing and managing headless CMS platforms (specifically Builder.io or equivalent).

• System Integration: Strong background in designing RESTful and GraphQL APIs to connect disparate systems (ERP to OMS, etc.).

• Infrastructure: Solid understanding of cloud-native environments (AWS/Azure/GCP) and CI/CD pipelines.

Required Experience

• 10+ years in software engineering, with at least 4+ years in a Technical Architect or Lead role.

• Successful track record of leading at least one major Legacy-to-Headless transformation.

• Expertise in managing complex vendor relationships and third-party API limitations.

• Ability to mentor senior developers and communicate architectural visions to non-technical stakeholders.