Principal Frontend Engineer (Real-time Communication)

TL;DR

Principal Frontend Engineer (Real-time Communication): Developing the communication surface including chat, voice, and video for the platform-level Party System with an accent on reliability, latency, and trust constraints. Focus on designing architectures that enable creators to implement rich social features in 3D environments and leading technical strategy across multiple pods.

Location: Based in San Mateo, CA. Hybrid schedule: Onsite Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Company

Roblox is a global platform that empowers a community of developers to create immersive 3D digital experiences for millions of users.

What you will do

• Lead and mentor senior engineers, removing roadblocks and fostering a high-performance engineering environment.
• Shape the frontend engineering culture and improve software shipping processes across the Communication team.
• Act as the technical lead for cross-functional initiatives, collaborating with product, design, and backend teams.
• Drive projects from technical planning and architecture to successful launch and measurable impact.
• Develop the platform and review code, remaining hands-on in the codebase.
• Design systems and APIs that allow Roblox creators to build new forms of co-experience.

Requirements

• 8+ years of frontend or client engineering experience (11+ without a CS degree).
• Proven expertise in leading consumer real-time audio/video calling products at scale (e.g., WhatsApp, Discord, Google Meet).
• Experience using AI-assisted development tools to accelerate prototyping and production.
• Strong technical leadership skills with a track record of leveling up other engineers.
• Ability to author clear, actionable technical design documents and align stakeholders.
• Must be based in the USA; specific visa categories may not be supported for H-1B sponsorship.

Culture & Benefits

• Culture of kindness, generosity, and mutual respect.
• Product-opinionated environment where engineers actively shape the roadmap.
• Strong advocacy for AI-assisted development and continuous professional growth.
• Equity compensation and comprehensive corporate benefits.
• Flexible hybrid work model with optional presence on Mondays and Fridays.