Senior Full-Stack Software Engineer - Banking Platforms

About UsInstantiations is a leader in custom software solutions, serving clients from the largest global enterprises to innovative small businesses. At the core of our success is a cohesive team of talented developers and forward-thinking leadership, working together to tackle complex challenges with creativity and collaboration. We pride ourselves on fostering a culture of mutual respect, innovation, and continuous growth, where team members genuinely look forward to contributing and thriving. With a 100% remote work setup, we offer the flexibility to work from almost anywhere within the United States while being part of a close-knit, supportive community that values your expertise and individuality.About the RoleWe are selectively seeking one highly skilled, senior-level full-stack software engineer to join our fintech business unit supporting banking customers across North America. This is a hands-on role spanning the full software development lifecycle — design, development, implementation, modernization, maintenance, production support, and customer-facing technical collaboration.Employment RequirementsBecause we serve banking customers in a regulated environment, a few things are non-negotiable:You must reside in the United States and not require visa sponsorship now or in the future You must communicate in clear, fluent English — reading, writing, and speaking — to work effectively with clients, teammates, and stakeholdersYou must be able to pass a clear background verificationWork and customer support must be performed while physically located in the United StatesWillingness to serve in the on-call rotation Work Experience Requirements7+ years of software development experience with a strong focus on Smalltalk and/or Java programming 7+ years in a senior full-stack software engineer rolePrior direct customer experience, problem solving with the customerBachelor’s degree in computer science or equivalent field, preferredExperience in banking, financial technology, insurance, healthcare, or other regulated industries is a strong plusExcellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently in a remote environmentStrong understanding of software development life cycles, agile methodologies, and remote collaboration toolsStrong and effective communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholdersPossess a deep commitment to positive customer outcomesLeadership qualities, including the ability to mentor junior team members and lead by exampleTechnology Skill RequirementsSmalltalk, a purely object-oriented programming language, powers a core part of our banking platform. Strong object-oriented development is at the heart of this role. The ideal candidate is a VAST Platform (VA Smalltalk) and Java expertWe would be open to a very strong Java expert who possesses the highly desired skills (listed below) and who is genuinely excited to learn the VAST PlatformWe would be willing to support a small ramp up for a highly skilled Java expert who is also deeply skilled in the other technology stacks listed belowHighly desired skills and practical experience in the following:Experience with the VAST Platform Enterprise AI engineeringDatabases: DB2, SQL Server, Oracle, or PostgreSQLCI/CD, DevOps, and related tooling (Git, Docker, Kubernetes, Azure DevOps, etc.)Middleware: Engineer and harden enterprise runtimes (IBM WebSphere, Tomcat) and messaging fabrics (IBM MQ, MQTT), implementing zero-trust security (mTLS, OAuth2, WS-Security) across all RESTful and SOAP interfaces. Python scripting and automationWhat You’ll DoDesign, develop, enhance, maintain, and support software across multiple application stacksWork across the full SDLC: requirements, design, coding, testing, implementation, support, and ongoing improvementSupport client implementation activities, production issue analysis, and customer-facing technical discussionsContribute to modernization initiatives and AI-enabled capabilities integrated into banking platformsParticipate in 24/7 production support on a reasonable on-call rotation schedule (stipend paid for on-call) AI EngineeringAI engineering is a core part of this role — not prototypes, but practical, enterprise-grade solutions. Experience with agentic systems, retrieval-augmented architectures, AI evaluation, security considerations, and integration with existing business platforms is highly valued.Who Thrives HereOur team is tight-knit and genuinely supportive of one another. The engineers who do best here are self-directed and accountable, but they never have to go at it alone. You’ll fit right in if you:Have strong object-oriented fundamentals, especially in VA Smalltalk or JavaAre comfortable working across both legacy and modern systemsCommunicate clearly with technical and non-technical audiencesTake ownership while also being a collaborative teammateCare about reliability, security, and customer trustWork LocationFully remote. The role generally aligns with Central Time business hours. Travel is minimal, expected to be under 10%.CompensationWhile we are looking for one person, we know that person can be at a mid-level or a senior level. Expected salary range starting at $110,000 - $150,000 depending on skill level and experience. Separate allowance for on-call pay.Instantiations’ BenefitsWe offer a generous and comprehensive package to our full-time employees. Flexible Vacation (employees are encouraged to take at least three weeks per year)Paid Sick LeavePaid Family Leave15 Paid HolidaysMedical, Dental, and Vision coverage starting on your first day, 100% covered for you and your familyHSA Plan with employer contributions (if you choose an HSA-eligible medical plan)Group Life Insurance – 2X your salary (company paid)Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance (company paid)401(k) Plan, with up to a 4% employer matchEmployee Assistance Program (EAP) (company paid)