Senior Technical Program Manager, Product

A Senior Technical Program Manager at DoorDash is responsible for leading engineering-wide initiatives, managing platform programs, and optimizing engineering objectives. They work closely with various teams to establish clear goals, metrics, and communication strategies while ensuring that projects align with the company’s vision. This role combines technical understanding with strong stakeholder management skills to drive the successful execution of strategic projects.

To qualify for the Senior Technical Program Manager role at DoorDash, candidates should possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related discipline, along with a minimum of 5 years of recent experience in a technology-focused program management position. Experience with large-scale distributed systems and familiarity with software development processes are also essential to successfully navigate the technical landscape of the organization.

DoorDash is deeply committed to the professional growth of its Senior Technical Program Managers. Employees are provided with opportunities for equity grants and a comprehensive benefits package that includes wellness benefits, career development programs, and various resources aimed at enhancing overall employee wellbeing. The collaborative environment encourages sharing of unique perspectives and problem-solving amidst a rapidly evolving landscape.

Essential skills for a Senior Technical Program Manager at DoorDash include strong leadership qualities, exceptional written and verbal communication, technical depth, and a solid understanding of software development practices. The ability to manage stakeholder relationships effectively, prioritize tasks, and adapt to changes in a fast-paced environment is also crucial for success in this role.

The work culture at DoorDash for Senior Technical Program Managers is dynamic and inclusive, fostering a collaborative atmosphere where diverse perspectives are valued. Employees are encouraged to take ownership of their projects while maintaining a strong focus on results. The company promotes a culture of empathy and teamwork, ensuring that all team members feel empowered to contribute to the organization’s mission.

When answering this question, highlight specific examples of complex projects you've managed. Discuss your methodologies for planning, execution, and stakeholder engagement, and what tools or processes you utilized to ensure project success. Focus on outcomes and how your leadership impacted the project.

Discuss your approach to prioritization, such as using frameworks like the Eisenhower Matrix or collaboration with stakeholders to align on project urgency and importance. Emphasize how you communicate with team members to keep everyone informed and focused on the most critical tasks.

Effective communication is key in technical program management. Mention your preferred tools and strategies, such as regular check-ins, documentation, follow-up emails, or collaborative software. Discuss how you adapt your communication style based on your audience to ensure clarity and maintain engagement.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response. Explain the conflict, your approach to understanding both parties' perspectives, and how you facilitated a resolution. Focus on the skills you used, such as negotiation and empathy, and the positive outcome that followed.

Share your commitment to continuous learning by mentioning specific industry resources you utilize, such as relevant blogs, conferences, webinars, or networking groups. Explain how staying updated influences your work and contributes to your leadership style.

Discuss your direct experience with distributed systems, focusing on specific projects where you applied your knowledge. Explain technical challenges you encountered and details on how you contributed to decisions around system architecture, scalability, and reliability.

Highlight the importance of trust and empowerment, and your methods of setting clear expectations and milestones. Discuss the use of project management tools to monitor progress while allowing team autonomy, and how you maintain open lines of communication for feedback and support.

Discuss the importance of stakeholder buy-in and pilot testing when introducing new processes. Mention how you typically assess team needs and involve them in the development of the process to foster acceptance and encourage openness to change.

Share your approach to soliciting, receiving, and applying feedback. Highlight the importance of viewing feedback as a growth opportunity and discuss examples of how you've used stakeholder feedback to improve project outcomes or team processes.

When discussing your excitement about DoorDash, connect your passion for technology and logistics with the company’s mission of empowering local economies. Emphasize your interest in contributing to innovative solutions within the fast-paced environment and collaborating with a diverse team.