Lead Engineer - Operations Innovation

Target • Brooklyn Park, NC

14d • $128,000 - $231,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Lead Engineer, Operations Innovation will join a brand-new, high-impact engineering team focused on transforming Target's Supply Chain and Stores—starting with Supply Chain. As part of the Operations Strategy, Product & Innovation (SPI) group, we're moving fast to build what's next. This team was created to turn bold ideas into real outcomes. We rapidly prototype, validate what works, and scale only what has proven impact. Engineers thrive here by navigating ambiguity, solving complex problems, integrating with real-world automation software that powers Target’s distribution, stores and fulfillment centers, and extending enterprise tools for long-term success. If you're energized by speed, ownership, and building from scratch—join us and help shape the future of Target's operations. As a Lead Engineer , you will be a key technical leader responsible for driving the design and delivery of innovative, scalable systems in a fast-paced and ambiguous environment. You will lead by example—writing high-quality code, mentoring engineers, and shaping the team’s technical direction.

Requirements

• 9+ years of software engineering experience
• Strong expertise in designing distributed systems and event-driven architectures
• Hands-on experience building resilient, high-throughput backend systems
• Ability to work across ambiguous, fast-moving initiatives and bring clarity and structure
• Excellent communication and a strong bias for action
• Stays current with new and evolving technologies via formal training and self-directed education

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with automation, hardware integration, or operational tech is a plus

Responsibilities

• Own and drive the architecture, design, and implementation of backend systems that power Target’s store and warehouse operations
• Lead technical discovery and rapid prototyping to evaluate new ideas and prove their value
• Collaborate closely with product, operations, and platform teams to translate real-world problems into scalable engineering solutions
• Guide the team through ambiguous problem spaces—making smart trade-offs and ensuring timely, high-quality delivery
• Champion engineering best practices and mentor other engineers on design, performance, and scalability
• Integrate with automation software and systems that interact with physical devices and operational workflows

Benefits

• comprehensive health benefits and programs, which may include medical, vision, dental, life insurance and more
• 401(k)
• employee discount
• short term disability
• long term disability
• paid sick leave
• paid national holidays
• paid vacation

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees