Senior Software Engineer at ServiceNow in San Diego, California, United States

Responsibilities

• We are the platform engineers handling app lifecycle at ServiceNow. We develop and maintain the server-side JavaScript engine at the heart of the ServiceNow platform — the runtime that powers custom applications, workflows, and business logic. We ensure apps move smoothly and securely from development to production. This role requires deep expertise in compiler and runtime systems you'll optimize execution engines, memory management, and performance at the systems level.
• Own code from design, implementation, test automation, and delivery across the scripting engine and the broader platform surfaces it touches
• Work with platform teams and internal stakeholders to understand requirements and drive the full development lifecycle
• Build software that is simple to use, allowing customers to extend and customize functionality to meet their specific needs
• Contribute to the design and implementation of new capabilities while maintaining and enhancing existing functionality
• Mentor colleagues and promote knowledge-sharing across teams
• Apply advanced knowledge of data structures, algorithms, object-oriented design, design patterns, and performance/scale considerations
• Architect modular, reusable systems for scalability and extensibility

Requirements

• Experience in leveraging or critically thinking about how to integrate AI into work processes, decision-making, or problem-solving (may include using AI-powered tools, automating workflows, analyzing AI-driven insights, or exploring AI's potential impact on the industry)
• 3+ years of experience with Java or similar OO language (C++, C#, Go equivalent acceptable)
• Passion for JavaScript as a language — its semantics, execution model, and evolution — as well as the Web as a platform
• Experience with backend or systems-level programming; exposure to language internals (parsing, compilation, interpretation) is a plus but not required
• Advanced knowledge of data structures, algorithms, object-oriented design, design patterns, and performance/scale considerations
• Familiarity with distributed systems concepts — resource isolation, concurrency, and scaling execution across shared infrastructure
• Demonstrated capability to manage multiple projects with material technical risk across teams and processes
• Track record serving as functional lead or technical owner
• Exposure to multiple technology stacks (JVM/backend systems, platform infrastructure, security and sandboxing, service-oriented architecture) is a strong plus

Skills

Required

• JavaScript
• Backend or systems-level programming
• Data structures
• Algorithms
• Object-oriented design
• Design patterns
• Performance/scale considerations
• Distributed systems concepts
• AI integration

Benefits

• For positions in this location, we offer a base pay of $128,900 - $219,100, plus equity (when applicable), variable/incentive compensation and benefits. Sales positions generally offer a competitive On Target Earnings (OTE) incentive compensation structure. Please note that the base pay shown is a guideline, and individual total compensation will vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies, and work location. We also offer health plans, including flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) Plan with company match, ESPP, matching donations, a flexible time away plan and family leave programs. Compensation is based on the geographic location in which the role is located and is subject to change based on work location.