Android Development Lead

Android Development LeadLocation: Hybrid – GurugramDepartment: Technology / Engineering Experience Level: 8+ YearsEmployment Type: Full-TimeAbout the RoleWe are looking for a highly experienced and motivated Android Development Lead to join our mobile team. In this role, you will be responsible for building and optimizing our Android client, ensuring seamless real-time communication, low-latency performance, and top-tier user experience. You’ll play a key role in bringing core messaging features to life — from real-time chat to encrypted group conversations and rich media handling.This is a hands-on role that offers the opportunity to shape the architecture, engineering practices, and product features of a high-scale messaging app used by millions of users worldwide.Key Responsibilities1. Architecture & App DevelopmentDesign and implement scalable, maintainable Android architecture using Kotlin and modern Jetpack libraries.Develop high-performance, real-time messaging features: chat screens, typing indicators, read receipts, presence, and delivery statuses.Build advanced media handling: support for image, video, audio sharing, background upload/download, in-app playback, etc.Integrate with real-time backends using WebSockets, Firebase, or custom protocols.Ensure offline support, message synchronization, and data consistency across sessions/devices.2. Security & PrivacyCollaborate with backend/security teams to implement end-to-end encryption, secure local storage, and key management using Android Keystore.Handle authentication flows, session management, and token security.3. Performance OptimizationContinuously monitor and optimize app performance (memory, battery, network usage).Use tools like Android Profiler, LeakCanary, StrictMode, and Systrace for performance tuning.Ensure seamless UX even under poor network conditions with proper error handling and retry strategies.4. Testing & DeploymentWrite comprehensive unit, integration, and UI tests using JUnit, Espresso, and MockK.Contribute to CI/CD pipelines for Android app releases.Participate in code reviews, automated testing, and linting.5. Collaboration & DocumentationWork closely with product managers, designers, and other engineers to define product requirements and implementation strategies.Provide technical mentorship to junior Android developers.Document key modules, APIs, and system behavior.Required Qualifications8+ years of professional Android development experience.Strong command of Kotlin and in-depth knowledge of Android SDK, architecture components, and Jetpack libraries.Experience building and maintaining large-scale consumer apps, preferably in real-time messaging or communication domains.Deep understanding of WebSockets, background services, network handling, and multithreading with coroutines.Experience with REST APIs, Retrofit/OkHttp, and JSON parsing.Proficiency in Jetpack libraries: ViewModel, LiveData/StateFlow, Room, WorkManager, Navigation.Familiar with secure data storage, Keystore, and app security best practices.Strong knowledge of app lifecycle, background execution limits, Doze mode, and battery optimization.Preferred QualificationsPrior experience in messaging apps, chat SDKs, or real-time communication.Experience with XMPP, MQTT, or custom protocol integration.Knowledge of Jetpack Compose and declarative UI.Experience with FCM (Firebase Cloud Messaging) and custom notification handling.Exposure to WebRTC, voice/video SDKs, or related media technologies.Understanding of analytics, crash reporting tools, and feature flag systems (e.g., Firebase, Sentry, Amplitude).