Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy
Jobs / Job page
Lead Developer image - Rise Careers
Job details

Lead Developer

The Lead Developer, working independently, will develop, test, debug and document software components commensurate with their experience as well as direct development staff in support of a software engineering effort.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Review and analyze complex process, system and / or data requirements and specifications across a major program or project or several small projects or programs.
  • Serve as the technical subject matter expert for one or more areas (subsystems) for a larger system or multiple areas (subsystems) for smaller systems.
  • Serve as the primary designer for complex component designs for one or more areas (subsystems) for a larger system or multiple areas (subsystems) for smaller systems.
  • Build, test, deploy, and document complex software components for one or more areas (subsystems) for a larger system or multiple areas (subsystems) for smaller systems as well as, help others with theirs.
  • Create software engineering strategies that help identify and mitigate risks.
  • Lead other team members in peer review of code and identify re-usable frameworks.
  • Interface with other team members and other teams in peer review of requirements, specifications and software.
  • Document and communicate development status in a timely manner including metric reporting.
  • Champion the collaborative resolution of defects.
  • Direct internal process improvement initiatives. Provide feedback on processes by offering suggestions.
  • Mentor and supervise junior staff in project-level tasks.
  • Participate in external process improvement committees as a Development representative.
  • Provide backup coverage for Delivery Lead.
  • Assist with adherence to technology policies and comply with all security controls.
  • Ensure all work products meets /exceeds FINRA standards.

Education/Experience Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems or related discipline with at least seven (7) years of related experience, or equivalent training and/or work experience; Master’s degree and past Financial Services industry experience preferred.
  • Demonstrated technical expertise in Object Oriented and database technologies/concepts which resulted in deployment of enterprise quality solutions.
  • Past experience with developing enterprise quality solutions in an iterative or Agile environment.
  • Extensive knowledge of industry leading software engineering approaches including Test Automation, Build Automation and Configuration Management frameworks.
  • Strong written and verbal technical communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop effective working relationships that improved the quality of work products.
  • Should be well organized, thorough, and able to handle competing priorities.
  • Ability to maintain focus and develop proficiency in new skills rapidly.
  • Ability to work in a fast paced environment.
  • Experience with object oriented programming languages such as Java, Scala or Python.

Work Conditions:

  • Work is normally performed in an office environment.
  • Occasional travel and extended hours may be required.

For work that is performed in CA, CO, HI, MN, VT, IL, Jersey City, NJ, New York City, NY, MA, WA, MD, Washington, DC, NJ State and NY State, please refer to the chart below for the salary range for the corresponding location. In addition to location, actual compensation is based on various factors, including but not limited to, the candidate’s skill set, level of experience, education, and internal peer compensation comparisons.

CA: Minimum Salary $128,000, Maximum Salary $242,600

CO/HI/MN/VT*: Minimum Salary $111,400, Maximum Salary $202,100

IL*: Minimum Salary $122,800, Maximum Salary $222,400
Jersey City, NJ/NYC, NY: Minimum Salary $133,700, Maximum Salary $242,600

MA/WA: Minimum Salary $111,400, Maximum Salary $232,500

MD/Washington, DC: Minimum Salary $128,000, Maximum Salary $232,500

NJ State: Minimum Salary $122,800, Maximum $242,600

NY State: Minimum Salary $111,400, Maximum Salary $242,600

*Including positions performed outside the state but reporting to an office or manager in that state.

Candidates can expect salary offers that range from the minimum to the mid-point of the salary range. FINRA provides full pay ranges so that the candidate can consider their growth potential while at FINRA.

#LI-DNI

To be considered for this position, please submit an application. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

The information provided above has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work of the position. It is not a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required.

Please note: If the “Apply Now” button on a job board posting does not take you directly to the FINRA Careers site, enter www.finra.org/careers into your browser to reach our site directly.

FINRA strives to make our career site accessible to all users. If you need a disability-related accommodation for completing the application process, please contact FINRA's Employee Relations team at 240.386.4865 or by email at EmployeeRelations@finra.org. Please note that this process is exclusively for inquiries regarding application accommodations. 

Employees may be eligible for a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Non-exempt employees are also eligible for overtime pay in accordance with federal, state, or local law. As part of its dedication to employee wellness, FINRA provides comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance. Additional insurance includes basic life, accidental death and dismemberment, supplemental life, spouse/domestic partner and dependent life, and spouse/domestic partner and dependent accidental death and dismemberment, short- and long-term disability, long-term care, business travel accident, disability and legal. FINRA offers immediate participation and vesting in a 401(k) plan with company match and eligibility for participation in an additional FINRA-funded retirement contribution, tuition reimbursement, commuter benefits, and other benefits that support employee wellness, such as adoption assistance, backup family care, surrogacy benefits, employee assistance, and wellness programs.

Time Off and Paid Leave*

FINRA encourages its employees to focus on their health and wellness in many ways, including through a generous time-off program of 15 days of paid time off, 5 personal days and 9 sick days, unless otherwise required by law (all pro-rated in the first year). Additionally, we are proud to support our communities by providing two volunteer service days (based on full-time schedule). Other paid leave includes military leave, jury duty leave, bereavement leave, voting and election official leave for federal, state or local primary and general elections, care of a family member leave (available after 90 days of employment); and childbirth and parental leave (available after 90 days of employment). Full-time employees receive nine paid holidays.

*Based on full-time schedule

Important Information

FINRA’s Code of Conduct imposes restrictions on employees’ investments and requires financial disclosures that are uniquely related to our role as a securities regulator. FINRA employees are required to disclose to FINRA all brokerage accounts that they maintain, and those in which they control trading or have a financial interest (including any trust account of which they are a trustee or beneficiary and all accounts of a spouse, domestic partner or minor child who lives with the employee) and to authorize their broker-dealers to provide FINRA with duplicate statements for all of those accounts. All of those accounts are subject to the Code’s investment and securities account restrictions, and new employees must comply with those investment restrictions—including disposing of any security issued by a company on FINRA’s Prohibited Company List or obtaining a written waiver from their Executive Vice President—by the date they begin employment with FINRA. Employees may only maintain securities accounts that must be disclosed to FINRA at one or more securities firms that provide an electronic feed (e-feed) of data to FINRA, and must move securities accounts from other securities firms to a firm that provides an e-feed within three months of beginning employment.

You can read more about these restrictions here.

As standard practice, employees must also execute FINRA’s Employee Confidentiality and Invention Assignment Agreement without qualification or modification and comply with the company’s policy on nepotism.

Search Firm Representatives

Please be advised that FINRA is not seeking assistance or accepting unsolicited resumes from search firms for this employment opportunity. Regardless of past practice, a valid written agreement and task order must be in place before any resumes are submitted to FINRA. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at FINRA without a valid written agreement and task order in place will be deemed the sole property of FINRA and no fee will be paid in the event that person is hired by FINRA.

FINRA strives to make our career site accessible to all users. If you need a disability-related accommodation for completing the application process, please contact FINRA's Employee Relations team at 240.386.4865 or by email at EmployeeRelations@finra.org. Please note that this process is exclusively for inquiries regarding application accommodations.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, citizenship status, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws.

FINRA abides by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.

FINRA abides by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.

©2025 FINRA. All rights reserved. FINRA is a registered trademark of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc.

Average salary estimate

$180250 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$128000K
$232500K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Lead Developer, FINRA

Join us at FINRA as a Lead Developer in Rockville, MD, where you’ll have the opportunity to showcase your expertise while developing, testing, and documenting innovative software components. You'll play a crucial role in leading our development team, mentoring junior staff, and serving as the go-to technical expert across various software subsystems. Your daily tasks will involve analyzing complex requirements, designing intricate component frameworks, and ensuring our outputs meet or exceed FINRA standards. Collaborating with fellow team members will be integral, especially in the peer review process, as you work together to identify reusable frameworks and improve our coding practices. Your influence won't just stop at development; you'll also champion initiatives that enhance our internal processes. With a strong focus on risk mitigation, your strategies will shape our engineering approach. Good communication is key here, and you’ll need to document and report development status in a timely manner. Your technical acumen, particularly in object-oriented programming languages like Java, Scala, or Python, will set the tone for our projects. Interested in pushing the boundaries of software engineering while contributing to financial services? Your journey starts here at FINRA!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Lead Developer Role at FINRA
What are the main responsibilities of a Lead Developer at FINRA?

As a Lead Developer at FINRA, your primary responsibilities include developing, testing, and documenting software components, directing development staff, and serving as a technical subject matter expert across different subsystems. You will also design complex software frameworks, mentor junior staff, and lead peer code review processes. Your role is vital in shaping software engineering strategies and ensuring compliance with FINRA standards.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications do I need to become a Lead Developer at FINRA?

To qualify for the Lead Developer position at FINRA, you will need a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field, alongside at least seven years of relevant experience. Proficiency in object-oriented programming, particularly in languages like Java, Scala, or Python, is essential. Moreover, prior experience in the financial services industry will give you an edge, along with knowledge of Agile development methodologies and software engineering best practices.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What skills are essential for success as a Lead Developer at FINRA?

Success as a Lead Developer at FINRA requires strong technical expertise in software engineering, particularly in object-oriented programming and database management. Excellent communication skills are essential for effective collaboration with team members. Additionally, you need to be well-organized, able to handle multiple priorities, and demonstrate a commitment to risk management and process improvement protocols within an Agile framework.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Is mentoring junior developers part of the Lead Developer role at FINRA?

Yes, mentoring junior developers is a key aspect of the Lead Developer role at FINRA. You will guide them in project-level tasks, share your technical expertise, and help them grow professionally by providing support and direction throughout the software development lifecycle. Your experience will be invaluable in fostering a collaborative and learning-focused environment.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What work environment can I expect as a Lead Developer at FINRA?

As a Lead Developer at FINRA, you can expect to work in a professional office environment. While most of your work will be conducted during regular hours, occasional travel and extended work hours may be necessary to meet project deadlines. FINRA fosters a culture that emphasizes both teamwork and individual growth, ensuring a dynamic workplace.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Lead Developer
How would you manage competing priorities as a Lead Developer?

To effectively manage competing priorities as a Lead Developer, prioritize tasks based on project timelines and impact on the overall goals. Use project management tools to allocate resources efficiently, and communicate clearly with your team to ensure everyone is aligned on expectations. Flexibility and adaptability are key, as you’ll need to respond to shifting demands while keeping the bigger picture in mind.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you describe your experience with Agile development methodologies?

In interviews for the Lead Developer role at FINRA, be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with Agile development methodologies. Share specific examples of how you’ve implemented Agile practices, facilitated sprints, and contributed to continuous improvement cycle discussions. This will highlight your familiarity and commitment to agile principles, which are highly valued at FINRA.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What strategies do you employ to ensure code quality?

To ensure code quality, I advocate for implementing strict code review processes and automated testing frameworks. Regular peer reviews provide opportunities for collective learning and help catch potential issues early. Additionally, I would ensure that best practices in coding standards are consistently followed and encourage the use of tools for static code analysis.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Explain a complex technical problem you've solved in your previous role.

In my previous role, I encountered a performance bottleneck in a data processing module that affected our application's responsiveness. To address it, I conducted thorough profiling to identify the slow components, optimized the algorithms used, and refactored the relevant sections of code. This reduced processing time significantly and improved the user experience. Highlighting such achievements in interviews can showcase your problem-solving abilities.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you stay updated with the latest technology trends?

Staying updated with technology trends is crucial for a Lead Developer. I regularly follow reputable tech blogs, participate in online communities, and attend industry conferences. Engaging with open-source projects and taking online courses on emerging technologies also enables me to stay ahead and bring innovative ideas to my team.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe your approach to risk management in software development.

My risk management approach involves early identification of potential risks through meticulous project planning and stakeholder engagement. I prioritize regular assessment throughout the project cycle, using risk mitigation strategies like alternative planning and diligent testing to address issues before they escalate. Transparent communication with team members also plays a key role in proactive risk management.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you handle conflicts within the development team?

Handling conflicts within the development team requires a calm and collaborative approach. I believe in addressing issues directly by facilitating open discussions where team members can voice their concerns. My goal is to understand different perspectives and work towards a mutually agreeable solution, reinforcing the project goals and the importance of effective teamwork in the process.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What programming languages are you most comfortable with and why?

I am most comfortable with Java, Scala, and Python, as I have extensive experience utilizing them in various projects. Java's robustness and scalability make it ideal for enterprise applications, while Scala's functional programming capabilities enhance efficiency. Python's simplicity allows for rapid prototyping and development. Each language offers unique advantages that I leverage based on project requirements.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you provide an example of how you improved a process in a previous development role?

In my previous role, I identified that our testing procedures were often delaying our deployment cycles. By introducing a Test Automation framework, I streamlined the process, which led to quicker feedback cycles and reduced manual testing time. This not only improved our efficiency but also enhanced the overall quality of our releases, demonstrating the value of ongoing process improvement.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is your experience with mentoring junior developers, and how do you approach it?

Mentoring junior developers has been a fulfilling part of my career. I adopt a hands-on approach by pairing them on projects and encouraging them to take ownership of tasks while providing guidance. Regular check-ins and constructive feedback sessions allow me to support their growth while also ensuring alignment with project objectives. This fosters a learning environment where they can confidently develop their skills.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Similar Jobs
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 2 days ago

Seeking a Principal Investigator to lead impactful investigations into potential securities misconduct within FINRA’s National Cause Program.

Photo of the Rise User
FINRA Hybrid New York, NY (Job Posting)
Posted 10 days ago

Join FINRA as a Senior UX Designer and lead the charge in creating user-centric interactive designs for enterprise solutions.

Posted 13 days ago

Join Green Dot as a Senior Software Engineer to build innovative payment solutions in a flexible remote work setting.

Photo of the Rise User
Endava Hybrid Brisbane QLD, Australia
Posted 12 days ago

Join a dynamic technology company as a Senior Solution Architect, responsible for architecting and delivering impactful software solutions.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 5 days ago

Join 10x Genomics as a Staff Software Engineer in Test contributing to cutting-edge embedded technologies that support scientific discovery.

Photo of the Rise User

Seeking an experienced Senior Principal Software Engineer to spearhead cyber security initiatives in embedded systems for a top automotive company.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 10 days ago

Join Candid Health as a Principal Software Engineer and lead the transformation of healthcare billing with your technical expertise and visionary approach.

Photo of the Rise User

Saily is seeking a passionate Senior Backend Developer ready to dive into Golang and enhance our innovative eSIM product for travelers.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 8 days ago

Join Dexcom as a Mendix Development Tech Lead and collaborate on innovative solutions in continuous glucose monitoring.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 11 days ago
Inclusive & Diverse
Empathetic
Startup Mindset
Collaboration over Competition
Growth & Learning
Transparent & Candid
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Paid Time-Off
Maternity Leave
Mental Health Resources
Learning & Development
Equity

Join Fleetio as a Senior Site Reliability Engineer and help optimize and scale our Ruby on Rails platform for a leading fleet management software.

FINRA is dedicated to protecting investors and safeguarding market integrity in a manner that facilitates vibrant capital markets.

36 jobs
MATCH
Calculating your matching score...
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 10, 2025

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!
LATEST ACTIVITY
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Chief of Staff to the CFO at Super.com
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed 5-8th Grade Art Teacher - SY 24-25 at ACCEL Schools
C
Someone from OH, Bowling Green just viewed Field Service Administrator at Cornerstone Building Brands
H
Someone from OH, Akron just viewed Brand Marketing Manager at Huntington
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Insider Threat Analyst at SpaceX
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed AI - RESEARCH SCIENTIST at City of New York
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Chardon just viewed Casting: 'Blood Ties' at Backstage
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Continental just viewed Part-Time Patient Access Specialist at Hummingbird
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Staff Accountant (Grant Administration) at Texas Health Action
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Administration & Marketing Assistant Intern at Bosch Group
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Manager – Music Publishing Licensing at Spotify
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Manager of Government Affairs and Policy at Mastercard
Photo of the Rise User
14 people applied to Junior Unity Developer at Gameloft
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Powell just viewed Senior Compliance Analyst at Nirvana Insurance
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mount Orab just viewed Backend Developer at G2i Inc.
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mount Orab just viewed Software Engineering Manager at Enable
G
Someone from OH, Mount Orab just viewed Backend Developer at GATEWAY CAREERS
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mansfield just viewed Director, People and Culture at Rewind Software
H
Someone from OH, Dayton just viewed Construction/HVAC Bid Coordinator at Hidden Talent
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Enrollment Configuration Specialist at Horace Mann