Lead Engineer - Front End (React)

Role Overview and Impact

At Xero, you will significantly influence customer-facing digital experiences that help users explore, learn about, and receive support for our products. As the Lead Engineer, you will architect and develop advanced web applications using React, Next.js, and TypeScript, integrating Xero’s core services with public platforms, from initial user interaction to support access.

You will be responsible for designing a scalable multi-site platform that merges React with Salesforce Experience Cloud environments and will lead one of the two engineering pods driving the platform's expansion.

This role does not involve maintaining legacy systems but focuses on creating cutting-edge solutions prioritizing speed and accessibility. You will explore implementing AI and intelligent automation to enhance customer experiences and collaborate closely with Product, Marketing, and Support teams to innovate user interactions. You will champion bold, customer-centric improvements and aim to elevate the experience globally.

Team and Workflow

As part of the Customer Platforms team, you will help build interfaces that facilitate customer education, support, and resource discovery. Working in two interconnected pods practicing Agile methodologies, the team values transparent communication, psychological safety, and iterative development through regular planning, retrospectives, and demos.

Current Projects and Technologies

• The technology stack includes TypeScript, React, Next.js, API-driven content layers, a headless CMS, composable architectures, and AWS backend systems.
• Ongoing efforts to redesign elements of Xero Central aim to provide customers with seamless and effective experiences.
• The platform balances a hybrid React and Salesforce Experience Cloud setup while integrating emerging AI-powered features.
• Defining the future architectural direction of Xero’s customer touchpoints, including developing agentic AI proof-of-concept applications.

Work Location and Mode

The position is based in either Wellington or Auckland, with a hybrid work pattern requiring approximately one day per week onsite to engage directly with the team and stakeholders.

Qualifications and Attributes

• Extensive expertise in architecting and developing sophisticated TypeScript, React, and Next.js applications supporting high-traffic, content-driven multi-site platforms.
• Proven track record migrating active, high-usage websites with minimal disruption via well-planned, low-risk strategies.
• A strong emphasis on performance optimization and web accessibility standards, including Core Web Vitals and WCAG guidelines.
• Experience mentoring engineering peers and fostering team growth in React and AI domains.
• Ability to lead through influence, confidently presenting constructive feedback to uphold customer interests.
• Exposure to e-commerce, media, agency, or other high-traffic web environments, providing innovative perspectives on user experience and performance.

Inclusive Hiring

Xero encourages applications even if your background is not an exact match, focusing on passion, capabilities, and the unique contributions you can provide to enhance our team and culture.