Principal Software Engineering Architect (Payments)

Citizens Financial Group • Johnston, RI

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

At Citizens, we invest in the humans who build the logic, ideas, and innovations that bring new technologies to life. As a Principal Architect, you'll lead the full architectural lifecycle—from concept design through construction—ensuring all projects meet aesthetic, technical, regulatory, and budgetary standards. You’ll serve as the primary technical authority, mentor teams of architects, build client relationships, and drive innovation in sustainable materials and building technology. A licensed architect with a strong track record in design leadership, you excel at translating client vision into robust architectural solutions and managing multiple stakeholders across diverse environments.

Requirements

• Deep knowledge of architectural design principles, building codes, zoning, and sustainability standards .
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities, with proven mentoring experience
• Should possess 15+ year’s experience in technologies such as Java, Oracle, Springboot, Python, IBM MQ, Kafka, and other emerging technologies.
• Superior communication skills for effective presentations and negotiations with varied audiences .
• Innovation mindset with ability to integrate new materials, tech, and sustainable design .
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or equivalent industry experience
• Extensive experience (usually 10+ years) across project lifecycle phases within architecture and software development
• Demonstrated success in leading large-scale, complex projects and cross-functional teams .

Nice To Haves

• Having experience in some of the payment products such as EPP (FISERV) and MTS (ACI) will be a plus.
• Having functional knowledge on different payment methods such as Real-time payments, ACH, Wires is a plus.
• Master’s degree preferred .
• Experience in business development and client-facing roles may be essential .

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural vision and develop high-level design concepts and detailed plans for major projects.
• Review and approve architectural design, specifications, and construction documents for quality and compliance.
• Coordinate with clients, engineers, contractors, and stakeholders, managing trade-offs between aesthetics, budget, and regulations.
• Conduct site assessments to monitor progress and ensure alignment with design specifications.
• Research and incorporate new materials, construction methods, sustainable practices, and technologies.
• Mentor and guide junior architects, shaping design standards and fostering technical excellence.
• Engage in business development: present design proposals, manage client relationships, and support marketing efforts.
• Work with fellow team members and guide them on any technical deliveries.
• Have good experience in technologies such as Java, Python, GraphQL, IBM MQ, Kafka, API Connect, etc.

Benefits

• We offer competitive pay, comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage, retirement benefits, maternity/paternity leave, flexible work arrangements, education reimbursement, wellness programs and more.
• Note, Citizens’ paid time off policy exceeds the mandatory, paid sick or paid time-away policy of very local and state jurisdiction in the United States.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees