Software Engineering Manager

As a Software Engineering Manager at Keebo, your primary responsibilities include leading a talented team of backend and machine learning engineers to design algorithmic solutions for database performance and cost optimization. You'll partner with product teams to understand customer needs deeply, guiding engineers to develop right-sized solutions. Additionally, mentoring team members, driving technical excellence, and fostering a collaborative team culture are integral parts of your role.

Candidates applying for the Software Engineering Manager position at Keebo should possess experience in leading and motivating productive, distributed engineering teams. Familiarity with multiple products and technical stacks and the ability to manage in a fast-paced startup environment are essential. Additionally, strong communication skills and a passion for mentoring engineers are crucial for success in this role.

At Keebo, growth and mentorship are cornerstones of our culture. Software Engineering Managers are encouraged to foster both technical and soft skills in their team members. This support includes opportunities for professional development, access to resources for improving technical and leadership abilities, and an environment where collaborative growth is celebrated. Keebo’s commitment to creating a high-ownership and inclusive culture plays a key role in fostering this growth.

Yes, Keebo embraces a fully remote work model across a global team. As a Software Engineering Manager, you'll have the flexibility to work from anywhere within the US, Canada, or Europe. This remote setup allows for a diverse and inclusive work environment that values contributions across different time zones and backgrounds.

Software Engineering Managers at Keebo encounter unique challenges typical of a growing startup, such as rapid product iteration, evolving customer needs, and the need for effective communication across a distributed team. Navigating these challenges requires adaptability, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to cultivating a resilient team culture that embraces change while striving for innovation.

When describing your leadership style, consider highlighting your approach to collaboration and empowerment. Discuss how you adapt your style to fit the team's needs and the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where every team member feels valued and motivated to contribute.

Be prepared to discuss a specific project that illustrates your ability to manage a team effectively. Explain the project's goals, your role in leading the team, and the impact the project had on the organization or customers. Emphasize collaboration and how you navigated challenges along the way.

Talk about the various strategies you employ, such as regular check-ins, creating opportunities for team bonding, and encouraging transparent communication. Mention tactics for recognizing and celebrating achievements, which are crucial in maintaining morale in a remote setting.

Explain the methods you implement to uphold technical best practices, such as code reviews, regular training sessions, and encouraging team members to share knowledge. Highlight how you adjust these practices to suit the team's evolving needs and ensure high-quality outcomes.

Share an experience where you faced team conflict, detailing how you addressed it directly and constructively. Discuss the importance of active listening and open communication in resolving issues and collaborating to find mutually beneficial solutions.

Outline your process for prioritization, emphasizing the importance of aligning tasks with company objectives. Explain how you involve the team in this process to foster ownership and clarity around the project goals, and how you assess the urgency and impact of different tasks.

Prepare to share your background and experience in machine learning and backend technologies, highlighting specific projects or technologies you are familiar with. Talk about your approach to integrating these technologies into product development and how you'll guide your team in their use.

Discuss your approach towards performance reviews, focusing on providing constructive feedback that encourages growth. Highlight the importance of regular check-ins throughout the year to ensure ongoing development and how you set clear expectations with your team.

Reflect on the attributes you find crucial for a successful engineering manager, such as effective communication, empathy, a strong technical background, and the ability to inspire and motivate a team. Share how you've applied these attributes in your management style.

Share how you remain current with industry trends through continuous education, attending workshops, reading relevant literature, and participating in professional networks. Highlight the value of learning and adapting in the ever-evolving tech landscape.