Software Engineer, Procedures

As a Software Engineer at Benchling, your primary responsibilities include designing and implementing backend models and API endpoints that support complex scientific workflows. You will also work on developing rich frontend components for one of the largest React applications and play a key role in collaborating with product managers and designers to ensure user-friendly solutions. Your work will contribute to the efficiency of scientists in their research, directly impacting the biotechnology landscape.

To be considered for the Software Engineer role at Benchling, you should have at least 3 years of experience in software engineering and a strong desire to engage with diverse teams, including product managers and customers. A product-first approach is essential, and you should be eager to tackle complex technical challenges. While prior knowledge in life sciences isn’t required, a willingness to learn is a must.

Benchling understands the importance of work-life balance and offers a flexible hybrid work model. Software Engineers are expected to work onsite in the San Francisco office three days a week, allowing for in-person collaboration while also providing the autonomy to work remotely. This balance fosters creativity and productivity, crucial for driving innovative solutions in biotechnology.

As a Software Engineer at Benchling, you will primarily work with React for frontend development, as well as backend technologies for implementing models and API endpoints. The role involves engaging with complex scientific workflows, so a familiarity with these technologies and a passion for exploring new ones will greatly benefit your contributions to the team.

The base salary range for the Software Engineer position at Benchling is between $165,000 and $223,000. The starting pay is determined based on skills, experience, and qualifications. Additionally, Benchling provides a comprehensive total rewards package which includes benefits such as health plans, a 401(k) with employer match, and generous vacation time.

When answering this question, consider outlining a few key projects where you played a significant role. Discuss the technologies you used, the challenges faced, and how you collaborated with teams. Relate these experiences to how they might be beneficial for your role as a Software Engineer at Benchling.

It's essential to explain your methodical problem-solving process. You might mention breaking down problems into manageable parts, collaborating with team members, and leveraging debugging tools. Articulating your approach shows your critical thinking skills and ability to work under pressure.

Since the role requires a strong React background, emphasize your experience with React and any other relevant frameworks. Discuss specific features or projects where you utilized these technologies and the impact they had on the user experience.

Highlight a specific example where your collaboration with product managers, designers, or customer support played a crucial role. Discuss how communication was key in achieving project goals, and describe any tools or methodologies you used to facilitate teamwork.

Demonstrate your understanding of Benchling's mission to revolutionize biotechnology. Be honest about your motivation for wanting to contribute to this field and how your values align with the company's goals and culture.

Share your strategies for ongoing learning, whether through online courses, webinars, or community involvement. Mention specific resources you rely on to keep your technical skills sharp and relevant to the software engineering landscape.

Consider outlining specific challenges within biotechnology that software could help solve, such as data management or analysis. Discuss how technology can streamline processes, improve decision-making, or enhance communication within scientific communities.

Discuss your approach to writing clean, maintainable code. Mention tools you use for version control, testing, or documentation. This showcases your professionalism and commitment to upholding best practices in software engineering.

Think about traits such as collaboration, adaptability, and a strong user focus. Relate these attributes back to Benchling's culture and the importance of working closely with scientists to create impactful software solutions.

Explain your strategy for prioritization, whether it be through Agile methodologies, maintaining a backlog, or through direct feedback from stakeholders. Tailor your response to reflect how these practices would fit within the fast-paced environment at Benchling.