Digital Technology Lead – Storefront & UX

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Digital Technology Lead – Storefront & UX

Company: International Motors, LLC

Location: Lisle, Illinois, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Technology/Engineering - Frontend Development & Technical Leadership

Date Posted: April 28, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the technical architecture and delivery of a high-performance, customer-facing digital storefront, focusing on a Headless UI architecture.

• Drive the development of a modular, lightning-fast, and scalable B2B shopping experience integrated with the commerce backbone.

• Champion modern frontend engineering standards, including component-based architecture, TypeScript, and high-performance CSS strategies.

• Leverage AI-assisted development tools to enhance team productivity, automate code quality checks, and accelerate the software development lifecycle (SDLC).

• Mentor and guide a team of developers, fostering a "You Build It, You Run It" mentality within an Agile/Scrum framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Product-Minded Engineer" with a blend of technical oversight and active delivery, emphasizing a strong understanding of both user experience and backend integration for a B2B e-commerce platform. The focus on AI-augmented development indicates a forward-thinking approach to software engineering efficiency.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Technical Architecture & Governance:

  • Serve as the primary technical architect for the Storefront POD, ensuring adherence to security, performance, and scalability benchmarks through rigorous code reviews.
  • Establish and maintain modern frontend engineering standards, including component-based architecture, TypeScript patterns, and high-performance CSS.
  • Collaborate with the eCommerce Digital Solutions & Platform Architect to optimize API consumption for the Storefront UI, prioritizing site speed.

• Experience Engineering & Performance Optimization:

  • Drive the development of the custom frontend using React/Next.js, emphasizing Server-Side Rendering (SSR) for "Instant-on" dealer performance.
  • Oversee the integration of third-party digital tools (Analytics, Search, Personalization) while maintaining elite "Core Web Vitals."
  • Lead the technical refactoring of legacy components into modern, reusable UI elements to enhance conversion and minimize technical debt.

• AI-Augmented Development & Efficiency:

  • Master the use of AI-assisted development tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, Cursor, Replit Agent) to accelerate the SDLC and automate repetitive coding tasks.
  • Implement AI for automated security scans, unit test generation, and performance profiling of team code.
  • Utilize AI agents for rapid prototyping of new features, such as dealer dashboard widgets, for stakeholder review.

• Team Leadership & Mentorship:

  • Manage and mentor a team of developers in an Agile/Scrum environment, promoting a "You Build It, You Run It" philosophy.

  • Translate complex technical trade-offs into "Business-First" language for Product Owners and non-technical stakeholders.

  • Ensure seamless integration of third-party tools and adherence to modern frontend engineering standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical leadership and hands-on development, with a significant emphasis on modern frontend frameworks, headless architecture, performance optimization (Core Web Vitals), and innovative AI integration into the software development lifecycle. The "You Build It, You Run It" mentality implies ownership and end-to-end responsibility for the developed features.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree and at least 9 years of software engineer experience, with at least 2 years of lead experience.

• OR Master's degree and at least 5 years of software engineer experience, with at least 2 years of lead experience.

Required Skills:

• Proven track record of building and maintaining decoupled/headless storefronts (e.g., Next.js, Nuxt.js, or Remix).

• Expert-level proficiency in JavaScript/TypeScript, React, and modern styling frameworks (e.g., Tailwind CSS, CSS-in-JS solutions).

• Deep experience consuming RESTful or GraphQL APIs within a commerce context.

• Advanced ability to use AI-driven coding assistants (e.g., GitHub Copilot, Cursor) to refactor code, generate documentation, and optimize logic.

• Experience with automated testing frameworks (e.g., Jest, Cypress, Playwright) for ensuring zero-regression deployments.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience managing or mentoring developers in an Agile/Scrum environment with a "You Build It, You Run It" mentality.

• Understanding of complex digital requirements such as bulk-upload carts, multi-level navigation, and tiered pricing displays.

• Familiarity with enterprise design systems and component-based architecture.

• Knowledge of Server-Side Rendering (SSR) principles and their impact on performance.

• Experience with performance monitoring tools and optimizing for "Core Web Vitals."

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a senior-level frontend engineering background with specific expertise in headless architectures and modern JavaScript frameworks. The advanced AI proficiency requirement is a key differentiator, indicating a need for candidates who can leverage cutting-edge tools to drive efficiency and innovation in development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate experience in architecting and delivering complex, customer-facing web applications, preferably within a B2B e-commerce context.

• Showcase examples of building and maintaining headless storefronts, highlighting the technology stack and architectural decisions.

• Provide case studies illustrating how you have improved website performance, specifically mentioning metrics like "Core Web Vitals" or page load times.

• Include examples of integrating third-party digital tools (e.g., analytics, search, personalization) into a frontend architecture.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase your approach to establishing and maintaining frontend engineering standards, including component-based architecture and TypeScript patterns.

• Detail your experience with Server-Side Rendering (SSR) implementation and its impact on user experience and performance.

• Provide examples of how you have utilized AI-assisted development tools to enhance the SDLC, including code refactoring, documentation generation, or automated testing.

• Illustrate your methods for performing rigorous code reviews focused on security, performance, and scalability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Applicants should be prepared to present a portfolio that clearly articulates their technical leadership, expertise in headless architectures, and a demonstrated ability to drive performance improvements. The inclusion of AI-driven development examples will be highly advantageous.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The provided job description does not specify a salary range. Based on industry benchmarks for a Digital Technology Lead with 10+ years of experience, a strong background in frontend development, and leadership responsibilities in a major metropolitan area like Lisle, Illinois, the estimated annual salary range is between $150,000 and $200,000 USD. This range accounts for the comprehensive technical expertise, AI proficiency, and leadership demands of the role.

Benefits:

• Competitive market-based compensation.

• Comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee wellbeing.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work hours, likely around 40 hours per week.

• The role is on-site, implying a traditional office-based schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimate is based on data from similar senior-level technology leadership roles in the Chicago metropolitan area, considering the specified experience level and the advanced skill set required, particularly in headless architecture and AI-assisted development. The benefits information directs candidates to a specific company resource for detailed information.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Commercial Vehicle Manufacturing and Technology. International Motors, LLC is part of the TRATON GROUP, a global leader in commercial vehicle manufacturing, with a vision to accelerate sustainable mobility.

Company Size: Approximately 15,000 employees globally (TRATON GROUP), with International Motors itself being a significant entity within this group. This size suggests a structured environment with established processes but also opportunities for impact.

Founded: International's history dates back to 1831, indicating a company with deep roots and a long-standing reputation, now evolving with modern technology and sustainable mobility goals.

Team Structure:

• The role reports to a Storefront POD (Product-Oriented Delivery) team, suggesting an Agile structure.

• It involves close partnership with the eCommerce Digital Solutions & Platform Architect.

• Direct mentorship of a team of developers is a key aspect, implying a leadership and guidance role within the POD.

Methodology:

• The team operates within an Agile/Scrum framework.

• A strong emphasis is placed on a "You Build It, You Run It" mentality, promoting end-to-end ownership.

• The role requires adherence to modern frontend engineering standards and code governance.

• AI-augmented development is a core methodology for accelerating the SDLC and enhancing efficiency.

Company Website: https://www.international.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to blend a rich history with a forward-looking vision for sustainable mobility and digital innovation. The team structure emphasizes Agile methodologies and technical ownership, with a significant component of AI integration in development processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level technical leadership position, specifically focused on the frontend architecture and delivery of digital customer experiences. It bridges the gap between engineering execution and strategic technical direction for the storefront.

Reporting Structure: The Digital Technology Lead will report within a POD structure, likely to a broader Digital Product or Engineering Manager, and will partner closely with Solution Architects. They will also directly manage and mentor a team of developers.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on the company's B2B customer experience, dealer engagement, and conversion rates. By ensuring a high-performance, user-friendly, and technologically advanced digital storefront, this lead directly influences customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and ultimately, revenue generation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in headless architectures, advanced frontend frameworks (React/Next.js), and emerging AI development tools.

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into broader engineering management roles, architect positions, or lead larger digital product initiatives.

• Cross-Functional Influence: Gain exposure to e-commerce strategy, platform architecture, and enterprise design systems, enabling influence on broader digital transformation efforts.

• Industry Recognition: Contribute to setting modern frontend standards and pioneering AI integration in a traditional industry, potentially leading to industry-wide best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth for experienced frontend engineers looking to step into leadership. The emphasis on both technical depth and team management, combined with the innovative use of AI, prepares individuals for future leadership roles in digital product development and technology strategy within the automotive industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Lisle, Illinois, at International Motors' corporate offices. This suggests a professional, corporate environment conducive to collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): 2701 International Dr, Lisle, Illinois, 60532, United States.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is designed for collaboration, indicated by the partnership with architects and the need to interact with Product Owners and non-technical stakeholders.

• Access to modern development tools and technologies, including AI-assisted development platforms, is expected.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time (40 hours/week) with an on-site arrangement.

• While a standard schedule is implied, the Agile nature might allow for some flexibility within the core working hours, focusing on delivery and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Lisle, Illinois, points to a traditional corporate setting. The emphasis on collaboration and the use of advanced tools suggests a dynamic work environment that supports both individual focus and team synergy for complex digital projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess alignment with minimum and desired qualifications, particularly experience in headless architecture and leadership.

• Technical Assessment/Coding Challenge: Candidates may face a technical assessment or coding challenge focusing on JavaScript/TypeScript, React, API consumption, and potentially AI tool usage simulation.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to review the candidate's portfolio, focusing on specific projects, architectural decisions, performance improvements, and leadership contributions. Be ready to discuss your role and impact.

• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Questions designed to assess leadership style, problem-solving abilities, communication skills (especially translating technical concepts), and cultural fit within an Agile/POD environment.

• Final Interview: Likely with senior leadership or hiring manager to discuss overall fit, strategic vision, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Headless & Performance: Showcase specific projects where you built or significantly contributed to headless storefronts. Quantify performance improvements using metrics like Core Web Vitals, load times, or conversion rate increases.

• Demonstrate AI Proficiency: Include examples or case studies of how you've used AI coding assistants to accelerate development, improve code quality, or automate tasks. Explain the tools used and the tangible benefits achieved.

• Showcase Leadership & Collaboration: Present projects where you led a team, conducted code reviews, mentored developers, or effectively communicated technical complexities to non-technical stakeholders.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio with clear project descriptions, your specific role and contributions, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Frontend Fundamentals: Brush up on core JavaScript, TypeScript, React hooks, state management, and component lifecycle.

• API Integration: Practice designing and interacting with RESTful or GraphQL APIs.

• Performance Optimization: Understand best practices for SSR, code splitting, lazy loading, and optimizing for Core Web Vitals.

• AI Tool Familiarity: Be ready to discuss your experience with AI coding assistants and how you integrate them into your workflow.

• Communication Skills: Prepare to explain complex technical decisions and trade-offs concisely and clearly, using business-oriented language.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, focusing heavily on both technical depth in modern frontend development and leadership capabilities, with a particular emphasis on AI integration and performance optimization. A well-prepared portfolio that showcases these aspects will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Frontend Frameworks: React, Next.js (primary focus), potentially Nuxt.js or Remix.

• Languages: JavaScript, TypeScript.

• Styling: Tailwind CSS, CSS-in-JS frameworks (e.g., styled-components, Emotion).

• API Interaction: RESTful APIs, GraphQL.

• AI-Assisted Development: GitHub Copilot, Cursor, Replit Agent, or similar tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics: Tools like Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, or similar for tracking user behavior and performance metrics.

• Performance Monitoring: Tools to measure and report on "Core Web Vitals" and other performance indicators.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly mentioned for this role, understanding how the storefront interacts with CRM and marketing automation platforms may be beneficial.

• Integration Tools: Experience with integrating various third-party digital tools (Analytics, Search, Personalization) into the frontend.

Testing & CI/CD:

• Automated Testing Frameworks: Jest, Cypress, Playwright.

• CI/CD Pipelines: Familiarity with continuous integration and continuous deployment processes for frontend applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily skewed towards modern, high-performance frontend development practices, with a significant emphasis on React/Next.js, TypeScript, and the strategic integration of AI development tools. Proficiency in performance optimization and automated testing is also critical.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Efficiency: Driving advancements in digital technology and leveraging AI to achieve 10x efficiency in development processes.

• Customer-Centricity: A strong focus on delivering a world-class B2B shopping experience that meets dealer needs and drives conversion.

• Technical Excellence: Upholding high standards for code quality, performance, security, and scalability through rigorous review and best practices.

• Ownership & Accountability: Embracing a "You Build It, You Run It" mentality, taking full responsibility for the features developed.

• Collaboration & Mentorship: Fostering a supportive team environment where knowledge is shared, and developers are mentored to grow.

Collaboration Style:

• Agile & Iterative: Working within an Agile/Scrum framework, emphasizing iterative development and continuous feedback.

• Cross-Functional Partnership: Close collaboration with Product Owners, Solution Architects, and non-technical stakeholders to ensure alignment between technical execution and business objectives.

• "You Build It, You Run It": Encourages direct communication and problem-solving between development and operational aspects of the product.

• Knowledge Sharing: Active participation in code reviews and team discussions to share best practices and technical insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture values a blend of cutting-edge technical innovation (especially AI), a strong commitment to customer experience, and a high degree of individual and team accountability within an Agile framework.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing "Product-Minded Engineering" with Technical Oversight: Effectively managing high-level architectural decisions while remaining hands-on with development and code reviews.

• Integrating AI Seamlessly: Ensuring AI-assisted development tools are used effectively and ethically to enhance, not replace, critical thinking and quality assurance.

• Maintaining Elite Performance: Continuously optimizing a complex headless storefront and integrating third-party tools without compromising "Core Web Vitals" and site speed.

• Technical Debt Management: Strategically refactoring legacy components while delivering new features in a fast-paced environment.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Translating intricate technical details into clear, actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced AI in Development: Becoming a leader in leveraging AI for software development, potentially exploring new tools and methodologies.

• Headless Architecture Mastery: Deepening expertise in modern frontend architectures and their integration with commerce backends.

• Performance Engineering Expertise: Becoming a go-to expert for optimizing web performance and achieving top-tier "Core Web Vitals" scores.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to refine team leadership, mentorship, and strategic technical planning skills within a major automotive organization.

• Industry Best Practices: Contributing to the evolution of frontend engineering standards within a large, established company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior technical leadership role at the intersection of innovation and established enterprise systems. The growth opportunities are significant, particularly for those looking to specialize in AI-driven development and high-performance digital experiences.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led the technical development of a customer-facing digital storefront. What were the key architectural decisions, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on headless, performance, and your role).

• "How do you approach balancing the need for rapid feature delivery with maintaining high standards for code quality, security, and performance? Provide an example." (Highlight your process and governance approach).

• "Walk us through your experience using AI-assisted development tools. How have you leveraged them to increase efficiency, and what are the potential risks or limitations you've encountered?" (Be specific about tools and impact).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your research, what excites you about International Motors and TRATON GROUP's vision for sustainable mobility and digital transformation?" (Show genuine interest and understanding).

• "How would you foster a 'You Build It, You Run It' culture within your development team?" (Discuss ownership, accountability, and collaboration).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Structure: For each project, tell a story: the problem, your solution (technical details, AI usage), your specific contributions, and the measurable impact (performance metrics, conversion data, efficiency gains).

• Quantify Everything: Use numbers to demonstrate success – e.g., "reduced page load time by X%", "increased conversion rate by Y%", "accelerated development cycle by Z% using AI."

• Focus on Leadership: Highlight instances where you guided the team, made critical architectural decisions, or mentored others.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your specific coding choices, architectural patterns, and the rationale behind them.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of headless architecture, performance optimization, AI integration, and effective technical leadership. Quantifiable results and clear communication are key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Digital Technology Lead position:

• Submit your application through the careers portal at https://careers.international.com/jobs/59186.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a portfolio that prominently features projects demonstrating headless storefront development, significant performance improvements (with quantifiable metrics), and your experience using AI-assisted development tools. Structure your presentation to clearly articulate your leadership role and impact.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights your 10+ years of experience, specific expertise in React, Next.js, TypeScript, headless architecture, API integration, and AI development tools. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Research Company & Role: Familiarize yourself with International Motors, TRATON GROUP's vision, and the specifics of this role. Understand their commitment to sustainable mobility and digital transformation.

• Practice Your Narrative: Prepare to articulate your technical approach, leadership philosophy, and how you would contribute to the team's success, particularly regarding AI integration and performance optimization.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.