Principal Engineer

OCLC•Dublin, OH

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

As a Principal Software Engineer, you will set technical direction for Linked Data, graph-based knowledge representation, and related modernization efforts across the organization. You will partner closely with Architects and Product to define long-term technical strategy, drive adoption of graph and Linked Data standards, and mentor senior engineers. The role combines leadership and influence with hands-on technical work, including coding, system design, and implementation. You will contribute directly to project completion, build proof-of-concepts, and demonstrate technical direction through working code. The role is expected to influence change across the enterprise, not only within one team. OCLC builds technology to connect libraries and make knowledge accessible worldwide. Its teams work with complex global datasets, AI and machine learning, hybrid cloud solutions, and other technologies. The position is based in a normal office environment. For many roles, OCLC offers a hybrid work environment with three days a week on-site and occasional additional days based on business needs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related discipline, or equivalent work experience.
12+ years of software development experience, with demonstrated experience operating at an Architect level or equivalent scope.
Strong expertise in Java technologies.
Hands-on experience with graph databases and graph data modeling and implementation.
Working knowledge of RDF, N-Triples, and SPARQL, including the ability to design, query, and reason about graph-based data structures.
Strong, practical experience leveraging AI technologies and AI-driven solutions in engineering work.
Deep understanding of system design and architecture, particularly for graph-based and Linked Data systems; modernization initiatives and enterprise technical roadmaps; and organizational technical strategy.
Proven ability to influence teams and drive technical decisions across multiple groups without direct management authority.
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, and comfort working in ambiguous technical territory.
Experience with distributed systems, microservices architecture, and cloud platforms.
Willingness and ability to write code, build proof-of-concepts, and directly contribute to delivery.
Strong understanding of software architecture and design patterns.

Responsibilities

Define and communicate the technical vision for Linked Data and graph-based systems across the organization.
Develop modernization strategies and system design roadmaps to move metadata infrastructure toward graph-based, standards-based representation.
Partner closely with Architects and Product to establish long-term technical direction.
Influence engineering teams and drive adoption of architectural standards, including graph data modeling and Linked Data best practices.
Write production code and build proof-of-concepts hands-on to unblock project delivery, validate new approaches, or demonstrate feasibility.
Mentor and guide technical teams and senior engineers, with an emphasis on leadership and influence rather than direct people management.
Research and evaluate emerging technologies, particularly AI-driven approaches to metadata, entity resolution, and knowledge graph construction.
Collaborate visibly with engineers, Architects, and Product partners.
Contribute directly to project completion and delivery as needed.

Benefits

Comprehensive Total Rewards package and competitive compensation.
Best-in-class health coverage.
Retirement plans with generous company contributions.
On-site fitness center, gym sports, group exercise classes, and game room at no cost.
On-site catering and cafeteria subsidized by OCLC.
Health and wellness events.
Paid parental leave.
Adoption assistance.
Tuition reimbursement.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility.
Company-subsidized pricing on local tickets and memberships.
Hybrid work environment for many roles, typically three days a week on-site, with occasional additional days based on business needs.
Campus walking-meeting areas, patio, and individual and team workspaces with current technology tools.