Sr. Software Engineer, Network Reliability, APAC

As a Sr. Software Engineer in Network Reliability at Category Labs, you'll be responsible for scaling and maintaining global networks that operate on baremetal servers across multiple data centers. This role requires you to productionize blockchain software for thousands of geo-diverse nodes, dive deep into resolving network issues for optimally reliable operations, and build automated tools to improve infrastructure iteratively. You’ll serve as a pivotal communicator between node operators and core developers, establishing best practices for efficiency and performance.

Candidates for the Sr. Software Engineer, Network Reliability position at Category Labs should possess deep knowledge of network protocols such as TCP/IP and UDP, with significant expertise in debugging hardware issues. You'll need experience with container technologies like Docker, Kubernetes, Terraform, and Ansible. Proficiency in a back-end programming language like Python, Go, or C++ is required, along with command-line experience in Linux and Git. Additionally, familiarity with writing deployment scripts and enhancing observability practices will set you apart.

The work environment at Category Labs is dynamic and collaborative, emphasizing team cohesion and high-quality output. As part of a lean, exceptional team, you'll tackle some of the most challenging problems in the blockchain industry. This position offers the chance to shape the company's culture as we grow, providing you with a unique opportunity to contribute to our ambitious goals and learn from experienced industry professionals.

Absolutely! The Sr. Software Engineer role at Category Labs is not only about tackling immediate challenges but also about personal and professional growth. As we scale, you'll have the chance to expand your skills and contribute to significant innovations in the blockchain space. With robust support from leading venture funds and our focus on building a strong team, there are opportunities for progression as the company continues to evolve.

At Category Labs, we provide a competitive salary and equity package for our Sr. Software Engineers, alongside comprehensive benefits such as 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees. You’ll enjoy unlimited paid time off, a monthly mental health and fitness stipend, paid parental leave, and 10 company-observed holidays. We prioritize our employees' well-being and growth, ensuring you have all the resources you need to thrive.

When answering this question, focus on specific projects where you've had to optimize or troubleshoot TCP/IP or UDP networks. Discuss any hands-on experience you've had with these protocols, detailing how your expertise helped improve network reliability or uptime. Provide examples of issues you've solved and the impact they had on the overall system.

In your response, highlight specific tools such as Docker, Kubernetes, or Ansible that you have experience with. Discuss how you've implemented automation in past roles, the challenges you encountered, and the benefits achieved through automation. Mentioning any metrics that show improvements will make your answer even more compelling.

Show your problem-solving skills by outlining a systematic approach to debugging. Mention how you gather data, identify potential root causes, and test different solutions. Providing a real-world example of a past debugging experience can substantiate your ability to troubleshoot effectively under pressure.

When responding, focus on your communication skills and the importance of understanding each side's perspectives. Describe a specific instance where you facilitated a successful exchange of information or best practices between developers and operators for improved network functionality, highlighting the positive outcome of your involvement.

Share your experience in writing deployment scripts, emphasizing any languages or frameworks you used. Be prepared to discuss the context in which you created those scripts, the challenges you faced, and how they facilitated smoother deployments. Mention any specific results or efficiencies gained from your scripting efforts.

Illustrate your previous experience by explaining specific tools or practices you've implemented to enhance network observability. Discuss your approach towards monitoring, logging, and analyzing metrics, and emphasize the importance of visibility in ensuring uptime and reliability.

Delve into a specific project where optimizing container technologies played a significant role. Describe the architecture, tools used, and the outcomes of your optimization efforts. Be sure to address any challenges you faced and how you overcame them to achieve successful results.

Show your passion for learning by discussing the resources you utilize to stay updated, such as industry publications, online courses, or community forums. Mention any relevant certifications or training you have pursued to enhance your skills and knowledge in network reliability.

Discuss how automation can significantly reduce human error and increase efficiency in network management. Explore specific scenarios where you've seen automation make an impact and speculate on the future of automation in network reliability, potentially bringing up tools and technologies you find promising.

This is your chance to express genuine interest in Category Labs’ mission and values. Reflect on how your expertise aligns with the challenges the company faces and your eagerness to contribute to groundbreaking blockchain technology. Genuine passion for the company's vision will resonate well with interviewers.