Backend Engineer - Platform Productivity (Remote, Germany)

As a Backend Engineer focusing on Platform Productivity at Grafana Labs, your primary responsibilities include aiding internal engineers to release software securely and efficiently on our infrastructure. You'll lead automation processes for CI/CD, engage in building and deploying systems, and ensure the overall health and functionality of our tools within the Internal Engineering Platform. You will also partake in design discussions, manage configurations, and assist teams across various functions from security to application development.

To qualify for the Backend Engineer - Platform Productivity role at Grafana Labs, you should have engineering experience, particularly in a platform group supporting internal teams. Familiarity with cloud environments, Kubernetes, Docker, and experience with Infrastructure as Code tools like Terraform or Crossplane are essential. Additionally, a flexible approach to software development and genuine interest in observability systems will be advantageous in this dynamic role.

At Grafana Labs, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of growth and learning. As a Backend Engineer - Platform Productivity, you will have ample opportunities to learn from experienced team members, engage in knowledge-sharing practices, and take on new challenges within the team. Our collaborative environment encourages all engineers to explore innovative ideas and solutions, enhancing both personal and team growth.

In the role of Backend Engineer - Platform Productivity at Grafana Labs, you will primarily work with technologies such as Go, Kubernetes, and Docker. Additionally, you will utilize Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools, including Terraform and tools like Tanka, to manage our cloud infrastructure and support internal engineering teams effectively, while also maintaining automation processes for CI/CD.

The team culture at Grafana Labs promotes collaboration, respect, and open communication, especially in a remote-first setup. As a Backend Engineer - Platform Productivity, you'll work closely with talented engineers in your squad, engaging in consensus-driven discussions to achieve team goals. We celebrate diversity and actively encourage every team member to contribute their unique perspectives and ideas.

In answering this question, you should emphasize any experience you have with setting up or managing CI/CD pipelines, highlighting specific tools and techniques you've used. Discuss your approach to ensuring reliable automation and how you've addressed challenges in deployment environments.

When asked this, explain your approach to on-call duties, such as your strategies for monitoring systems and responding to incidents. Mention how proactive communication and collaboration with team members help maintain system health in a remote setting.

Discuss the importance of Infrastructure as Code (IaC) in enhancing collaboration and ensuring consistency in environments. Provide examples of IaC tools you've used and how these practices have automated and simplified deployment processes in your previous projects.

In your response, walk through the steps you took to diagnose the problem, what resources you utilized, and how you collaborated with your team to resolve the issue. Emphasize your analytical approach and the importance of clear communication during troubleshooting.

Explain your methods for prioritizing tasks, such as assessing urgency, requiring collaboration, or leveraging project management tools. Highlight how you ensure that critical tasks align with team goals and timelines without compromising quality.

Discuss the tools and channels you prefer for communication in a remote setting, emphasizing your approach to keeping your team informed and engaged. You could also mention how you adapt your communication style to suit different stakeholders.

Here, highlight projects where you've utilized Kubernetes, detailing your contributions and the challenges faced. Discuss how you’ve optimized deployment or scaling processes and any lessons learned from operating in a Kubernetes environment.

When answering, focus on your appreciation for collaboration and the synergy that comes from working with diverse perspectives. Share specific examples that illustrate how teamwork has been crucial to your success in previous roles.

Articulate strategies you use for impactful security practices, such as regular security audits, compliance checks, and utilizing security tools. Discuss how you involve other team members in ensuring a security-conscious culture.

Here, explain why you think observability is key in understanding system health and user interactions. Stress how a strong observability strategy can lead to proactive maintenance and improved user experiences.