Who We AreWe build technology that removes barriers blocking talent from opportunity, combining the latest advancements in AI with human judgment.How we expand accessAccess isn't real if it's unaffordable. Through our sister company, Passage Funding, we provide financing for international students.What we believeAccess to opportunity should not be determined by geography, gender, or wealth. We reinvest a portion of our profits to support those cut off from education - including our Afghan program.Access is the productWe build AI that turns paperwork into decisions, and decisions into real outcomes.Our mission is bold but simpleBy 2030, we aim to dismantle the barriers preventing brilliant minds from accessing the opportunities they deserve.The roleWe are looking for aPrincipal Software Engineerto help architect and scale the core systems that power Passage.This is a senior technical leadership role focused on building reliable, scalable systems while shaping the long-term technical direction of the company. You will work closely with engineering, product, and leadership teams to design systems that support Passage’s AI-driven platform and global operations.You will take ownership of complex technical problems, define architectural standards, and help ensure our systems remain reliable, secure,



and scalable as the company grows.This role is ideal for someone who enjoys solving deep technical problems while also influencing engineering culture and technical strategy across the organization.What you will doArchitect core systemsDesign and evolve the architecture of Passage’s core platformBuild scalable backend services that support admissions automation, financial systems, and operational workflowsEnsure systems are reliable, secure, and capable of supporting global scaleLead complex technical initiativesOwn the design and implementation of large engineering initiativesBreak down complex problems into clear technical solutionsGuide teams through major architectural decisionsEstablish engineering standardsDefine best practices for system design, testing, performance, and reliabilityImprove engineering workflows and development processesEnsure high-quality, maintainable code across the platformPartner across the companyWork closely with product, data, and operations teams to understand business needsTranslate product requirements into scalable technical solutionsHelp leadership understand technical trade-offs and long-term architecture decisionsMentor and elevate the engineering teamMentor engineers across the organizationReview system designs and provide technical guidanceHelp cultivate a high-ownership, high-quality engineering cultureQualificationsBachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering,



or a related technical field5+ years of skilled software engineering experienceDeep experience designing and building scalable backend systemsStrong programming skills in modern backend languages (such as Python, TypeScript, Go, or similar)Experience working with distributed systems and cloud infrastructureStrong system design and architectural thinkingExperience leading complex technical initiatives across multiple teamsAbility to operate independently and make high-impact technical decisions in a fast-moving environmentNice to haveProficient in Python, Django, TypeScript, and React.Experience with cloud platforms such as GCP is a plus.Deep knowledge of software design patterns and architecture.Strong understanding of database design and development.Bachelor degree or higher in computer science or related fieldLocationPassage operates with an in-office working model. Candidates must be based in Toronto or open to relocating and workingfive days per week in our Toronto office .Ready to join us?We are building a company designed to expand access to life-changing opportunities around the world. If you are excited about solving hard technical problems, building systems with global impact, and shaping the engineering direction of a mission-driven company, we would love to meet you.Note:Artificial intelligence may be used in the screening or assessment of applicants.If your experience does not match every requirement but you believe you can thrive in this role, we encourage you to apply.CompensationAbove C$200K + Offers Equity#J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Principal Software Engineer - C$200,000 A Year (Toronto)
🏢 Passage
📍 Toronto