Principal Front-End Engineer - Web Platform

Canva is seeking a Principal Front-End Engineer to lead the Web Platform team in Melbourne, Australia. This team is responsible for optimizing how Canva loads, renders, and operates in the browser, aiming to provide a seamless user experience. As a Principal Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the technical direction and performance of Canva's web platform.

In this role, you will set the architecture for server-side rendering (SSR) and React Server Components, focusing on reducing client-backend round trips and implementing a modern offline strategy. Your goal is to achieve sub-two-second first-page load times, ensuring that performance becomes a defining property of the product. You will also influence the broader frontend specialty by defining patterns, authoring design documents, and guiding teams through the adoption of modern frontend practices.

The ideal candidate will have an in-depth understanding of React, including its reconciliation and rendering processes. Experience with server-side rendering and React Server Components is essential. A strong background in frontend performance optimization at scale, particularly in achieving rapid load times, is highly desirable. Proficiency in leading by example through hands-on coding, rather than solely through architectural discussions, is also important.

While specific compensation details are not provided, Canva offers a hybrid work environment, allowing flexibility between remote work and in-person collaboration at the Melbourne campus. The campus features a vibrant, creative atmosphere with local artwork, lush greenery, and thoughtfully designed spaces to foster collaboration and focus.

Joining Canva means becoming part of a company that values inclusion and diversity, creating a safe and welcoming environment for all employees. As Canva scales toward a billion monthly active users, this role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the product's performance and user experience.