Remote Principal Security Architect & Engineer – Lead Cybersecurity Strategy, Cloud & Enterprise Defense for Target’s Global Retail Platform

About Target – A Visionary Retail Powerhouse

Target is more than a household name; it is a cultural institution that connects millions of families to moments of joy every day. With a legacy that spans over a century, Target has continuously evolved from a brick‑and‑mortar retailer into an omnichannel leader that blends physical stores, digital experiences, and innovative technology. Our mission is simple yet profound: help families discover the joy of everyday life. To accomplish this, we invest heavily in the people, tools, and culture that fuel relentless innovation, exceptional customer service, and sustainable growth.

Our technology division, Target Tech, is the engine that powers this transformation. From AI‑driven personalization to cloud‑native platforms that support millions of transactions daily, we are building the digital future of retail. Central to this effort is a world‑class Cybersecurity team that safeguards our data, protects our guests, and enables the business to move faster, safer, and smarter.

Why Join Target’s Cybersecurity Team?

At Target, security is not an afterthought – it is woven into every line of code, every architecture decision, and every business process. As a Remote Principal Security Architect & Engineer, you will become a trusted advisor, a strategic partner, and a technical mentor across the enterprise. You will work alongside passionate engineers, product owners, and senior leaders who share a common goal: to create a secure, resilient, and innovative platform that delights customers worldwide.

• Impactful work: Shape security standards that protect billions of dollars in revenue and countless personal data records.
• Cutting‑edge technology: Leverage cloud-native services, zero‑trust networking, AI‑enhanced threat detection, and container security.
• Growth mindset: Continuous learning is encouraged; we provide tuition reimbursement, certifications, and internal tech talks.
• Flexibility: Choose a fully remote or a hybrid “Flex for Your Day” model that fits your lifestyle while staying connected to a supportive global community.
• Diversity & inclusion: Join a team that values varied perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds, fostering creativity and better problem solving.

Role Overview – Principal Security Architect & Engineer (Remote)

We are seeking a seasoned security leader who can bridge the gap between business goals and technical safeguards. As the principal voice for secure architecture, you will partner with system designers, software engineers, and product managers to embed security controls early in the development lifecycle. Your deep expertise across multiple cybersecurity domains will guide the creation of resilient, scalable, and compliant solutions on both cloud and on‑premises environments.

The role demands a rare blend of strategic vision, hands‑on technical acumen, and exceptional communication. You will influence enterprise‑wide policies, lead architecture reviews, and mentor emerging talent while staying attuned to the rapidly evolving threat landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Security Design: Work closely with product and engineering teams to integrate security requirements into initial design phases, ensuring that confidentiality, integrity, and availability are baked in from day one.
• Architecture Documentation: Produce and maintain comprehensive security architecture artifacts, including models, frameworks, data flow diagrams, and reference designs that align with industry standards (e.g., NIST, ISO/IEC 27001).
• Risk Identification & Mitigation: Conduct threat modeling, vulnerability assessments, and risk analyses across cloud, container, and on‑prem environments; recommend and implement appropriate controls to reduce risk to an acceptable level.
• Secure Solution Implementation: Design and oversee deployment of security solutions such as firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, encryption mechanisms, secure APIs, and zero‑trust network architectures.
• Collaborative Development: Partner with development, DevOps, and operations teams to embed secure coding practices, automated security testing, and continuous compliance into CI/CD pipelines.
• Architecture Reviews: Lead full‑stack security reviews of applications, platforms, and infrastructure, providing actionable feedback and guidance to improve security posture.
• Cloud Security Expertise: Advise on secure configuration of AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud services, including IAM policies, network segmentation, and secret management.
• Container & Orchestration Security: Establish hardening guidelines for Docker, Kubernetes, and serverless runtimes, and integrate runtime security tools to detect anomalous behavior.
• Incident Preparedness: Contribute to incident response planning, tabletop exercises, and post‑mortem analyses to continuously refine detection and remediation capabilities.
• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: Coach junior engineers, facilitate workshops, and champion a culture of security awareness across the organization.
• Regulatory & Compliance Alignment: Ensure that security designs satisfy relevant regulatory frameworks (PCI‑DSS, GDPR, CCPA) and internal governance policies.
• Stakeholder Communication: Translate complex technical concepts into clear, business‑focused language for executives, product owners, and cross‑functional teams.

Essential Qualifications

• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related field, OR equivalent combination of education and extensive professional experience.
• Professional Tenure: Minimum of 10 years of hands‑on experience designing, implementing, and managing comprehensive security programs in large‑scale enterprises.
• Polyglot Programming Skills: Proficiency in multiple programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, Go, JavaScript) and ability to read and review code across diverse platforms.
• Deep Cybersecurity Domain Knowledge: Demonstrated expertise in Information Protection, Cloud Security, Network Security, Identity & Access Management (IAM), Automation, and Security Information & Event Management (SIEM).
• Tool Mastery: Extensive experience with firewalls, IDS/IPS, SIEM platforms, Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solutions, and security orchestration, automation, and response (SOAR) tools—independent of vendor lock‑in.
• Framework Proficiency: Strong familiarity with NIST, ISO/IEC 27001, CIS Controls, and other industry‑accepted security frameworks.
• Analytical & Problem‑Solving Acumen: Ability to dissect complex systems, identify hidden vulnerabilities, and devise pragmatic mitigation strategies.
• Communication Excellence: Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with a proven track record of delivering compelling presentations to technical and non‑technical audiences.

Preferred Qualifications & Desired Extras

• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Professional certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CCSP, OSCP, or relevant cloud security certifications (AWS‑CSA, Azure Security Engineer, Google Professional Cloud Security Engineer).
• Hands‑on experience with container security platforms (e.g., Aqua, Twistlock, Falco) and Kubernetes hardening.
• Exposure to AI/ML security concepts, including model robustness, data poisoning defenses, and secure AI pipelines.
• Experience leading large, distributed teams in an Agile or DevSecOps environment.
• Demonstrated track record of influencing enterprise‑wide security governance and policy development.

Core Skills & Competencies for Success

• Strategic Thinking: Visionary mindset that aligns security initiatives with business objectives.
• Technical Breadth: Ability to move fluidly between network protocols, cryptographic standards, cloud architectures, and application security.
• Collaboration & Influence: Comfort working across functional silos, building consensus, and driving change without direct authority.
• Continuous Learning: Proactive engagement with emerging threats, new security technologies, and industry trends.
• Leadership Presence: Capacity to mentor, inspire, and elevate the performance of peers and junior staff.
• Detail‑Oriented Execution: Meticulous attention to documentation, compliance requirements, and risk assessments.
• Adaptability: Thrive in a fast‑paced environment where priorities evolve rapidly and novel challenges arise.

Career Growth & Learning Opportunities

Target’s commitment to employee development is unwavering. As a Principal Security Architect, you will have access to a broad portfolio of resources designed to accelerate your career:

• Executive Sponsorship: Direct interaction with senior leadership to influence strategic security direction.
• Professional Development Budget: Annual allowance for conferences, certifications, and advanced training (e.g., Black Hat, RSA, SANS).
• Internal Knowledge Networks: Participate in Security Communities of Practice, hackathons, and cross‑team workshops.
• Mentorship Programs: Both mentor and be mentored, fostering a culture of shared expertise.
• Career Path Flexibility: Opportunities to transition into senior leadership roles (e.g., Director of Security Architecture, CISO), or deep‑technical tracks such as Principal Engineer, Security Researcher, and Cloud Security Fellow.

Compensation, Perks & Benefits (Overview)

Target offers a competitive total‑reward package reflective of the seniority and impact of this role. While exact figures may vary based on location, experience, and market conditions, the compensation spectrum includes:

• Base Salary: $144,400 – $259,900 per year, aligned with industry benchmarks for principal‑level security leaders.
• Performance‑Based Incentives: Annual bonuses tied to individual, team, and company performance.
• Equity & Retirement: 401(k) plan with company match, and potential stock purchase or option grants.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for you and eligible dependents.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, paid holidays, sick leave, and parental leave policies.
• Work‑Life Flexibility: Remote or hybrid work models, flexible scheduling, and support for home office setups.
• Learning & Development: Tuition reimbursement, access to online learning platforms (Pluralsight, Coursera), and internal tech talks.
• Employee Discounts: Exclusive retail discounts across Target’s product portfolio.

Work Environment & Culture Highlights

Our culture is built on three core pillars: Inclusion, Innovation, and Integrity. At Target, you will experience:

• Inclusive Atmosphere: Diversity of thought is celebrated; Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) provide community and advocacy.
• Innovation‑Driven Projects: Work on high‑visibility initiatives that push the boundaries of retail technology.
• Collaborative Spaces: Even in a remote setting, we foster connection through virtual coffee chats, team‑wide town halls, and regular cross‑functional syncs.
• Recognition Programs: Celebrate achievements with awards, spot bonuses, and public acknowledgment.
• Sustainable Practices: Commitment to responsible sourcing, carbon neutrality, and community outreach aligns with values that many employees hold dear.

Application Process & Next Steps

Ready to shape the future of retail security at one of the world’s most beloved brands? The application timeline is straightforward:

1. Submit Your Resume & Cover Letter: Highlight your most relevant security projects, leadership experiences, and why Target’s mission resonates with you.
2. Initial Screening: Our Talent Acquisition team will reach out to discuss fit, expectations, and answer any questions.
3. Technical & Leadership Interviews: Engage with senior security architects, engineering managers, and business stakeholders in a series of collaborative discussions.
4. Final Assessment: A realistic scenario or case study to showcase your architectural thinking and communication style.
5. Offer & Onboarding: Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a formal offer and a detailed onboarding plan to integrate you into the team smoothly.

All candidates requiring accommodations during the hiring process are encouraged to contact [email protected] for assistance. We are committed to ensuring an equitable and accessible experience for everyone.

Closing Statement – Join Us in Securing Tomorrow

In a world where digital experiences are the new storefront, your expertise will serve as the fortress that protects both customers and the brand they trust. If you thrive on solving complex security puzzles, enjoy influencing enterprise‑wide strategy, and want to work with a forward‑thinking team that values your voice, we invite you to apply today.

Take the next bold step in your career. Apply now and become a cornerstone of Target’s cybersecurity excellence.