Software Engineer SME

As a Software Engineer SME at KDA, you will have the responsibility of designing and implementing software solutions using Java and JavaScript, creating dynamic user interfaces and back ends. You’ll engage with cross-functional teams to gather design requirements, contribute to project documentation, and apply your knowledge of cloud platforms. Your role will also involve staying updated with new technologies and collaborating with peers to communicate technical decisions effectively.

To qualify for the Software Engineer SME role at KDA, candidates should hold a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, along with 16+ years of relevant work experience. A strong background in software design, coding, and testing for at least 9 years is essential, as are communication skills and the ability to collaborate with various teams.

While a bachelor’s degree is necessary, KDA prefers candidates with a master’s degree in a related field. Experience with cloud technologies such as AWS or Azure, as well as familiarity with DevSecOps tools like Git and Docker, are highly valued. Knowledge of modern user interface frameworks like Angular or React and understanding of Section 508 compliance will give candidates an added advantage.

KDA is committed to fostering a supportive environment that encourages professional growth for Software Engineer SMEs. This includes opportunities for continuous learning about emerging technologies, involvement in innovative projects, and collaboration with industry peers. We promote a culture that values knowledge-sharing and personal development to help you stay at the forefront of the tech landscape.

At KDA, you can expect a vibrant, fast-paced work environment that embraces agile methodologies. As a Software Engineer SME, you'll work collaboratively in teams, where innovation and constructive engagement with peers are celebrated. Our culture encourages continuous improvement and the use of modern tools and practices to optimize solutions and enhance productivity.

When answering this question, focus on providing specific examples of projects where you've successfully utilized Java and JavaScript. Highlight the technologies you've used, the challenges you faced, and the impact your contributions had on the final product, showcasing your technical skills in both front-end and back-end development.

Discuss a systematic method for researching and evaluating new technologies, such as conducting pilot projects. Share how you've kept abreast of tech trends, how you assess potential solutions against business needs, and the decision-making process involved in choosing to adopt new technologies in past roles.

Explore your communication style by providing examples of how you've facilitated discussions around technical approaches and decisions. Mention techniques that foster collaboration, like using diagrams or technical documentation, to ensure all parties understand the trade-offs and benefits of different solutions.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to articulate a particular scenario involving a complex problem. Be sure to describe your thought process, the tools used, and how your solution benefited the project or team, displaying your analytical and problem-solving skills effectively.

Detail your hands-on experience with either AWS or Azure, mentioning specific services you've utilized, such as EC2 instances or Azure Functions. Discuss any projects where you managed cloud infrastructure, emphasizing how you ensured scalability and security in your solutions.

Discuss best practices you've employed for writing maintainable and secure code, like following coding standards, performing code reviews, and using static analysis tools. Highlight your experience with security measures in coding, such as input validation and authentication protocols.

Share how you’ve successfully implemented Agile methodologies in past projects. Describe your role within sprints, the use of stand-up meetings, and how Agile principles aided team collaboration and project deliverables.

Mention the version control systems (like Git) and issue tracking tools (such as JIRA or Trello) you've used. Discuss how these tools improve collaboration among team members and support project management, ensuring that code is updated securely and development progresses smoothly.

Detail your approach to creating comprehensive documentation that includes user guides, administration manuals, and release notes. Highlight how you gather information from the development process to ensure that documentation is clear, useful, and accessible to various stakeholders.

Describe any leadership roles you've held in software development, emphasizing your ability to mentor junior developers or lead project teams. Mention specific projects where you took initiative, guided decision-making, and helped your team reach its goals, showcasing your leadership and mentorship abilities.