System Architect (Machines)

We're looking for a System Architect to define and guide the end-to-end architecture for a cross-platform design product-spanning desktop and mobile apps for manual and AI-assisted design creation, cloud-saved projects, and dependable connectivity and execution on cutting machines over Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi. This role requires deep system thinking across client apps, backend services, device connectivity, and hardware/firmware integration-ensuring the entire system is secure, scalable, extensible, maintainable, observable, and delightful to use. Equally important, this architect will shape how AI is woven into both the product experience and the way our engineering organization builds software., + Champion AI-native engineering practices across the organization-agentic coding tools, AI-assisted code review, automated test generation, and AI-augmented design and ADR workflows-while maintaining code quality, security, and human oversight.

• Drive the end-to-end architecture from front-end apps through cloud services to machine execution, including data flow, control flow, latency, reliability, and failure recovery.
• Set clear APIs and integration contracts between app, cloud, and devices (including versioning/backward compatibility).
• Design cross-platform application architecture (e.g., iOS/Android, desktop) for complex workflows.
• Design reliable connectivity over Bluetooth, USB, and Wi-Fi (pairing, discovery, reconnection, error handling).
• Ensure strong reliability, security, and performance (retries, encryption, permissions).
• Define observability standards across applications, services, and devices by establishing metrics, tracing, and logging practices, along with connectivity diagnostics and user-level debugging tools.
• Establish architectural governance by defining reference architectures, conducting design reviews, managing the ADR process, setting coding standards where needed, and aligning technical roadmaps with product goals.
• Partner cross-functionally with product, design, QA, manufacturing, firmware/EE, AI/ML, support, and security to ensure decisions are practical and shippable.
• Mentor engineering leaders and help teams make high-quality tradeoffs in performance, UX, reliability, and cost.

• 10+ years of software development experience, building and shipping production systems spanning client apps + backend + device integration.

• Demonstrated track record designing and shipping cross-platform products at scale-keeping iOS, Android, desktop, and/or web feature-aligned through shared code, platform abstraction layers, and disciplined API contracts. Experience with frameworks like React Native or Flutter.

• Hands-on experience integrating AI/LLM capabilities into production systems-model orchestration, retrieval, agentic patterns, evals, and managing latency, cost, and reliability tradeoffs.

• Fluent and pragmatic user of modern AI engineering tools (e.g., Claude Code, Cursor, Copilot, Agentic SDKs); able to lead the team in adopting them safely and effectively.

• Track record leading large refactors/migrations (modernization, modular architecture).

• Ability to communicate architecture clearly (diagrams, ADRs, tradeoffs) and influence across multiple teams.

• Ability to balance hands-on implementation (90%) with architecture leadership.

• Possesses a solid understanding of embedded and hardware integration concepts, including firmware constraints, command protocols, calibration, safety, OTA/update considerations, and error codes and telemetry.

• Solid experience in Swift, Kotlin, JavaScript, TypeScript, C#, React, and Python.

• Demonstrated experience with device connectivity (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB), including real-world challenges such as pairing, discovery, interference, bandwidth and latency, reconnection, and platform constraints.

• Experience in BLE GATT design, Wi-Fi provisioning, mDNS/SSDP discovery.

• Strong experience with REST APIs, microservices, and backend integration.

• Strong foundation in security, with hands-on experience in asymmetric cryptography. Soft Skills

• Clear technical communication (written and verbal) across disciplines.

• Ability to influence without direct authority; strong stakeholder alignment skills.

• Mentorship mindset with a track record of leveling up senior engineers.

• Strategic thinking paired with attention to implementation detail.

• Continuous learner who stays current with advances in software development, tooling, and platforms, and brings the best of what's new into the team's practice.

We've Got You Covered At Cricut, we take care of our people. Enjoy competitive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, a 401(k) match, generous PTO, tuition reimbursement, and a yearly lifestyle stipend to support your wellness and passions. You'll also receive exclusive employee discounts-and best of all, you'll be surrounded by some of the most talented, creative, and curious minds out there. A Quick Note Before You Apply… Cricut is in an exciting chapter of transformation. We're evolving fast-refining our strategy, growing our teams, and raising the bar across everything we do. This is an incredible opportunity for the right kind of person-but it's not for everyone. We're looking for A-players-people who thrive in dynamic environments, turn challenges into momentum, and consistently deliver their best work. If that sounds like you, read on. Here's what makes someone a great fit for this role (and for this moment at Cricut): + You move with urgency. You don't wait for perfect clarity to act-you start, learn, and adjust. + You set high standards. You take ownership, deliver quality, and hold yourself accountable. + You stay focused when things move fast. You prioritize what matters most and tune out the noise. + You collaborate like a pro. You elevate others, communicate clearly, and bring a low-ego, high-output energy. + You embrace AI as part of your toolkit. From idea exploration to data analysis and creative problem-solving, you leverage AI to accelerate innovation and amplify impact-because technology and creativity go hand-in-hand here. One More Thing (It's a Big One) This role is in-office at least 4-5 days per week. We believe real collaboration, innovation, and culture are built face-to-face. If you're energized by working alongside smart, kind, creative people-and love those hallway conversations that spark the next great idea-you'll feel right at home. If you're looking for a fully remote role, this may not be the right fit. But if you're excited by challenge, purpose, and building something better-let's make something amazing together. Relocation Statement: + This position is eligible for relocation assistance. What to Do Next: Please attach your resume, cover letter and/or include links to your portfolio or other social presence. If you want to show your super powers in other ways - include that information too. You can be sure that Cricut® is an employer who values individuality, equality and diversity, so tell us what you're all about. If you are a Maker or a DIY enthusiast, whether you think you are a good one or not, we would love to hear about it when you send us your information. Cricut® is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. This position is contingent on successfully completing a Criminal Background Check upon hire. Cricut participates in E-Verify.