Principal Engineer - Programmatic Systems
Principal Engineer - Programmatic Systems
Location: San Francisco Bay Area
Employment Type: Full-time, Onsite (5 days/week)
Compensation: $250,000-$350,000
A rapidly scaling technology company in the healthcare space is seeking a Principal Engineer to lead the development of systems that power its programmatic advertising efforts. This is a hands-on engineering role focused on building infrastructure for digital campaigns, integrating with ad platforms, and driving measurable growth through experimentation and automation.
You'll collaborate closely with design, analytics, and growth stakeholders to architect scalable solutions that support high-performance marketing efforts. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a startup environment, enjoys solving complex technical challenges, and is passionate about building tools that directly impact user acquisition.
Key Responsibilities
Engineering & Execution
- Build and maintain systems to execute, optimize, and report on digital advertising campaigns
- Integrate with DSPs, ad networks, and RTB platforms to support programmatic efforts
- Develop tools for audience targeting, attribution modeling, and creative testing
- Collaborate with analytics to assess campaign performance and improve conversion efficiency
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with design and brand teams to support creative asset delivery
- Work with growth and marketing stakeholders to align technical execution with strategic goals
- Contribute to the broader advertising strategy through experimentation and data-driven insights
Qualifications
Required
- 5+ years of experience in a performance-driven engineering role focused on digital advertising
- Strong understanding of ad tech ecosystems including DSPs, RTB platforms, and audience targeting
- Experience with remarketing, dynamic creative, CRM integrations, and advanced targeting tactics
- Proficiency in media analytics, campaign attribution, and optimization techniques
- Excellent communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally
- Comfortable in a fast-paced, startup environment with a bias toward action
Preferred
- Prior experience at publishers, ad tech companies, or advertising agencies
- Familiarity with consumer behavior analytics and media research tools
- Experience building internal tools or platforms for marketing automation
Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary range: $250,000-$350,000
- Generous equity packages
- Pre-tax commuter benefits
- 401(k) with company match
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Unlimited PTO and generous company holidays
- Wellness perks including mindfulness sessions and group workouts
- Regular team socials and community events
- Centrally located office designed for deep work and collaboration
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with resume and interview preparation. From customized support on how to optimize your resume to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.