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Principal Software Developer - US Federal

Your work days are brighter here.

At Workday, it all began with a conversation over breakfast. When our founders met at a sunny California diner, they came up with an idea to revolutionize the enterprise software market. And when we began to rise, one thing that really set us apart was our culture. A culture which was driven by our value of putting our people first. And ever since, the happiness, development, and contribution of every Workmate is central to who we are. Our Workmates believe a healthy employee-centric, collaborative culture is the essential mix of ingredients for success in business. That’s why we look after our people, communities and the planet while still being profitable. Feel encouraged to shine, however that manifests: you don’t need to hide who you are. You can feel the energy and the passion, it's what makes us unique. Inspired to make a brighter work day for all and transform with us to the next stage of our growth journey? Bring your brightest version of you and have a brighter work day here.

At Workday, we value our candidates’ privacy and data security.  Workday will never ask candidates to apply to jobs through websites that are not Workday Careers. 

  

Please be aware of sites that may ask for you to input your data in connection with a job posting that appears to be from Workday but is not.

  

In addition, Workday will never ask candidates to pay a recruiting fee, or pay for consulting or coaching services, in order to apply for a job at Workday.

About the Team

Be part of a team that is revolutionizing HR for the U.S. Federal Government. We build ground breaking software that empowers agencies to manage their workforce effectively, streamline HR processes, and improve the federal employee experience. We thrive in a collaborative, Agile environment, adopting innovation and continuous improvement. Our team is committed to delivering high-quality solutions tailored to the unique needs of the federal sector. We value teamwork, open communication, and a shared commitment to our mission. We're looking for an experienced HR Software Architect that is also a federal domain expert to contribute to our next-generation workforce solutions

About the Role

This role will support one or more direct or indirect contracts with the U.S. Federal Government which, due to federal government security requirements, mandates that all Workday personnel working on the contracts be United States citizens (naturalized or native).

As a Principal Software Architect, Federal HR Solutions, you will be a key leader in our team, driving the development of next-generation HR solutions. You will serve as the domain expert in U.S. Federal Human Resources, providing technical leadership to development teams and playing a meaningful role in shaping our product roadmap. You will collaborate closely with Industry Strategy, Product Management, and other technical specialists to translate customer needs into innovative solutions across Core HR, Benefits, Compensation, Absence, Time & Scheduling, Recruiting, and Talent Management

About You

We are seeking a passionate and influential leader to drive the future of federal HR technology. As a recognized authority in federal HR, you will play a pivotal role in crafting our next-generation solutions. You possess a strategic approach, a passion for developing user-centric, resilient, and scalable software, and are motivated by a fast-paced, collaborative environment. You have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate sophisticated technical concepts to diverse audiences. You are a self-starter, adept at navigating the complexities of the federal government, and skilled at building consensus, facilitating multi-functional collaboration, and effectively advocating for ideas.

Basic Qualifications and Experience:
  • This position requires a TS/SCI with CI polygraph security clearance. Applicants must already possess a valid and active TS/SCI with CI polygraph security clearance.
  • Deep knowledge and hands-on experience with HCM systems and processes, including Core HR, Absence Management, Benefits Administration, Compensation Management, and Recruiting.
  • Extensive experience with federal HR systems such as HR Connect, EmpowHR, PeopleSoft and FPPS.
  • Thorough understanding of Title V, OPM Regulations, GPPA, the Human Capital Business Reference Model, and the Human Capital Information Model.
  • Proven ability to solve complex architectural design problems and deliver robust, scalable solutions.
  • Demonstrated ability to translate complex HR requirements into clear design specifications and working software.
  • 10+ years of experience in the U.S. Federal market with 15+ years in software development, including experience working in an Agile/Scrum environment.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field (Master's degree preferred).

Other Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of unique human capital business practices in the intelligence community
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Excellent organizational and leadership skills
  • Skilled in time, priority, and task management
  • Ability to anticipate problems, resolve ambiguity, and take decisive action


Workday Pay Transparency Statement

The annualized base salary ranges for the primary location and any additional locations are listed below.  Workday pay ranges vary based on work location. As a part of the total compensation package, this role may be eligible for the Workday Bonus Plan or a role-specific commission/bonus, as well as annual refresh stock grants. Recruiters can share more detail during the hiring process. Each candidate’s compensation offer will be based on multiple factors including, but not limited to, geography, experience, skills, job duties, and business need, among other things. For more information regarding Workday’s comprehensive benefits, please click here.

Primary Location: USA.VA.McLean (Tyson's Corner)


 

Primary Location Base Pay Range: $188,200 USD - $282,200 USD


 

Additional US Location(s) Base Pay Range: $170,200 USD - $302,400 USD



Our Approach to Flexible Work
 

With Flex Work, we’re combining the best of both worlds: in-person time and remote. Our approach enables our teams to deepen connections, maintain a strong community, and do their best work. We know that flexibility can take shape in many ways, so rather than a number of required days in-office each week, we simply spend at least half (50%) of our time each quarter in the office or in the field with our customers, prospects, and partners (depending on role). This means you'll have the freedom to create a flexible schedule that caters to your business, team, and personal needs, while being intentional to make the most of time spent together. Those in our remote "home office" roles also have the opportunity to come together in our offices for important moments that matter.

Pursuant to applicable Fair Chance law, Workday will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Workday is an Equal Opportunity Employer including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.

Are you being referred to one of our roles? If so, ask your connection at Workday about our Employee Referral process!

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$188200K
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What You Should Know About Principal Software Developer - US Federal, Workday

At Workday, we believe that work should be a little brighter, and as a Principal Software Developer focused on US Federal HR Solutions, you get to be part of that mission! Based in McLean, VA, you’ll dive into innovative projects that directly impact federal agencies, helping them to enhance HR processes and improve employee experiences. As a key leader on our dynamic team, you'll utilize your expertise in federal HR systems to guide development teams toward creating user-friendly and effective software solutions. We value collaboration and idea-sharing, and you’ll work closely with Industry Strategy and Product Management to bring innovative designs to life. We’re looking for someone with deep knowledge of HCM systems and extensive experience in the federal sector, who thrives in an Agile environment. Your role will entail translating complex requirements into straightforward, scalable solutions, while championing ideas that spark creativity and growth. Plus, we foster a supportive culture where you can be your authentic self, so don’t worry about fitting into a mold. Come ready to innovate and contribute to our vision of reshaping HR technology. At Workday, we encourage your development and celebrate your individuality, making every workday not just a job, but a journey!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Principal Software Developer - US Federal Role at Workday
What responsibilities does a Principal Software Developer at Workday focus on?

As a Principal Software Developer at Workday, you'll take on numerous responsibilities, including leading technical development for next-generation HR solutions tailored for the U.S. Federal Government. You will serve as a domain expert in federal HR practices, work with various teams to align product roadmaps with customer needs, and drive the creation of scalable software solutions that enhance employee experiences and streamline federal HR processes.

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What qualifications are required for the Principal Software Developer position at Workday?

To qualify for the Principal Software Developer position at Workday, candidates should possess a valid TS/SCI with CI polygraph security clearance and have over 10 years of experience in the U.S. Federal market. A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field is essential, along with deep knowledge of human capital management systems and extensive experience with federal HR platforms. A proven ability to translate complex HR requirements into effective software is also crucial.

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Why is the Principal Software Developer role crucial for federal HR technology at Workday?

The Principal Software Developer role at Workday is essential for advancing federal HR technology because it drives innovation and ensures that solutions meet the unique needs of federal agencies. By leveraging deep expertise in HR systems and collaborative problem-solving, the role embodies a commitment to delivering high-quality software that improves HR processes, enhances employee satisfaction, and supports federal missions.

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What impact can I have as a Principal Software Developer at Workday?

As a Principal Software Developer at Workday, your impact will be significant. You will lead initiatives that transform HR processes for the U.S. Federal Government, improving systems that affect thousands of employees. Your contributions will enhance the efficiency of federal HR practices, provide technical direction to teams, and shape solutions that align with government standards and regulations.

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What is the company culture like at Workday for Principal Software Developers?

Workday prides itself on a vibrant, employee-centric culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. As a Principal Software Developer, you will be part of a dynamic environment where diverse ideas are valued, and teamwork is encouraged. The company promotes open communication, professional growth, and a strong sense of community, ensuring every Workmate feels supported and empowered to shine in their role.

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Common Interview Questions for Principal Software Developer - US Federal
Can you explain your experience with federal HR systems?

You should be prepared to discuss specific experiences you've had with federal HR systems. Highlight your deep knowledge of systems like HR Connect, EmpowHR, or PeopleSoft, and how you’ve utilized them to address unique challenges in the federal sector. Mention examples of how you've contributed to enhancing these systems' functionality or user experience.

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Describe an architectural design problem you solved in a previous role.

Share a concrete example that illustrates your problem-solving skills. Explain the challenge you faced, the approach you took to analyze the problem, and the steps you implemented to arrive at a solution. Emphasize the impact your solution had on the project or team, and link it back to the requirements of the Principal Software Developer role.

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How do you ensure collaboration within a development team?

Collaboration is key in development. Discuss methods you’ve used, like daily stand-ups, code reviews, or collaborative tools that foster communication. Describe how you encourage team members to share ideas and resolve conflicts constructively, ensuring everyone is aligned toward common goals.

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What is your approach to understanding complex HR requirements?

Your approach to understanding complex HR requirements should include detailed stakeholder interviews and gathering feedback. Explain your process for translating these requirements into clear specifications for development, and emphasize the importance of maintaining open communication with stakeholders throughout.

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Can you provide an example of how you've driven innovation in a software solution?

Discuss a specific project where you spearheaded innovative features or updated processes. Focus on how you identified opportunities for innovation and the steps you took, including collaboration with cross-functional teams. Outline the results and the improvements brought to end users.

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How do you stay up-to-date with changes in federal HR regulations?

Demonstrating knowledge of federal HR regulations is crucial. Share resources you use, such as OPM publications, industry groups, or relevant webinars. Highlight any recent changes you’ve adapted to and how it influenced your work on federal HR systems.

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What methodologies do you prefer when developing software solutions?

Talk about the methodologies you excel in, like Agile or Scrum, and how they influence your work. Explain how you apply these methodologies to keep projects on track, ensuring regular feedback and continuous improvement, and how it fits into the collaborative environment at Workday.

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How do you manage competing priorities in your work?

When faced with competing priorities, explain your strategy for prioritization based on project urgency, impact, and resources. Discuss tools or frameworks you use for task management and how you communicate with your team to align on priorities, ensuring critical goals are met.

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Describe your experience with multi-functional collaboration.

Emphasize the significance of cross-functional collaboration in your roles. Provide examples of projects where you worked with different departments, highlighting how you communicated effectively, resolved differences, and achieved a unified outcome for the benefit of the project.

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What motivates you in the role of a Principal Software Developer?

Reflect on your passion for technology and its impact on improving people's lives. Discuss what excites you about the potential to shape federal HR systems, the opportunity to work with a talented team, and how this role aligns with your career goals and values at Workday.

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Workday brings finance, HR, and planning into one system, making it possible for enterprises of all sizes to shed their disparate systems and build better businesses. We serve over 7,900 of the world’s largest companies, educational institutions, ...

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March 28, 2025

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