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Job Analysis:
The Principal Engineer, Network role at CarMax is a senior, strategic technical position centered on ensuring the company’s network infrastructure and cloud platform are robust, secure, scalable, and aligned with the company’s overarching digital innovation goals. This role goes beyond routine network management—it requires a deep expertise in hybrid cloud networking (especially Azure), automation, and advanced wireless technologies (LTE, 5G, Wi-Fi), with a critical focus on building resilient architectures combining legacy and modern cloud environments. The person hired is expected to be a thought leader who not only solves complex technical challenges but also influences and guides teams and leadership towards cutting-edge solutions that enhance CarMax’s customer experience. Key responsibilities include collaborating cross-functionally with product, architecture, and systems teams to create experimental and scalable solutions, driving tech-wide initiatives to unblock teams, and continually pushing innovation within the platform’s infrastructure. Qualifications reflect the need for a mastery of networking concepts, cloud platforms, scripting/automation, and wireless systems, supported by extensive industry experience (10+ years) and certifications. Success looks like enabling faster, more reliable deployments and resilient network operations while fostering knowledge-sharing and continuous learning culture. Navigating ambiguity, driving organizational change, and influencing without direct authority are implicit in the role, requiring strong communication, leadership, and strategic thinking skills. First 6-12 months success might be measured by progress on key cloud platform improvements, enhanced automation maturity, and strengthened cross-team partnerships aligning with CarMax’s evolving tech strategy.
Company Analysis:
CarMax occupies a distinctive position as an industry disruptor in the used car retail sector, leveraging technology and innovation to transform traditional car buying into a seamless, transparent, and customer-centric experience. As a large, stable organization with over 25,000 employees and a Fortune 100 best workplace recognition, CarMax balances its mission-driven culture focused on integrity, inclusivity, and continuous growth with a bold commitment to digital transformation. This environment favors innovation-driven, empowered employees who strive to push boundaries while fostering collaboration across distributed teams. The culture also emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and personal development, indicating a supportive workplace for leaders who invest in their teams' growth. The Principal Engineer role is highly visible and influential, positioned as a backbone technical leadership role within Technology that partners across multiple levels—from engineers to senior leadership—guiding critical platform initiatives. Strategically, this hire supports CarMax’s digital evolution by strengthening core network and cloud infrastructure to sustain rapid scaling and exceptional customer experiences. Candidates should be ready to adapt to a hybrid model embrace, demonstrate thought leadership beyond technical proficiency, and thrive in a company determined to create lasting societal impact as well as customer delight.