Software Development Engineer III, Map Data Publication

As a Software Development Engineer III at Mapbox, you’ll be tasked with implementing new data publication services for our 3D/HD data, particularly geared towards self-driving vehicles and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). You'll also code data processing and conversion within cloud applications while collaborating with various R&D teams to integrate our data into our products. Engaging with leading automotive OEMs will be part of your journey as you expand Mapbox's influence in the automotive industry.

To be considered for the Software Development Engineer III role at Mapbox, strong proficiency in programming languages such as Python or Scala is essential. Experience with deploying scalable data pipelines in cloud applications, especially on platforms like AWS and Spark, is crucial. A solid understanding of geospatial data concepts and related tools is highly desirable, along with excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

The work environment for a Software Development Engineer III at Mapbox is dynamic and collaborative. You'll be part of a global team where creativity and innovation are encouraged, working alongside colleagues who are experts in their fields—from developers to data scientists. The role requires excellent communication skills as you'll often collaborate across various time zones, emphasizing the importance of early morning availability to maximize overlap with the European teams.

As a Software Development Engineer III at Mapbox, you'll utilize an array of technologies including Python, SQL, and cloud services like AWS and Spark for coding and implementing data processing and conversion. Familiarity with geospatial data tools such as PostGIS and QGIS, along with various map data formats, will also be vital as you affect meaningful changes in the way Mapbox publishes data for our clients.

The annual base compensation for a Software Development Engineer III at Mapbox typically ranges from $183,175 to $247,845 for most US locations. Depending on the specific work location and market demands, compensation could be 5% to 10% higher in areas with a higher cost of labor. Actual offers are determined based on individual qualifications and potential impact.

When answering this question, focus on specific projects where you've deployed applications on AWS. Highlight your familiarity with various AWS services and share examples of how you've optimized cloud applications for performance and cost efficiency. Emphasize your problem-solving skills and how you tackled challenges while working in a cloud environment.

For this question, discuss your background in working with geospatial data concepts and tools such as PostGIS or QGIS. Provide examples of how you've manipulated or integrated geospatial data in past projects. It’s important to convey your understanding of different map data formats and their applications, especially in relation to navigation and location services.

Explain your approach to maintaining data quality, which may include data validation techniques, automated testing, and leveraging data analytics tools. Sharing a scenario where you've encountered data discrepancies and how you resolved them can also demonstrate your attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

When responding, identify programming languages you excel in, such as Python or Scala, and describe specific projects where you've employed these skills. Focus on how your programming experience aligns with the job requirements and emphasize any relevant frameworks or libraries you've utilized to enhance your development work.

Discuss your time management and prioritization techniques. You might mention methodologies like Agile or Kanban and explain how you adjust priorities based on project timelines and stakeholder needs. Illustrating with a concrete example from your previous experience can reinforce your answer.

Share a specific challenge you faced, detailing the context, your assessment of the problem, and the steps you took to find a solution. Highlight the skills and tools you utilized, as well as the impact of your solution on the project or team. This showcases your analytical capabilities and resilience.

Provide a narrative of a situation where you worked with different teams, emphasizing your communication skills and adaptability. Highlight how you exchanged feedback, aligned goals, and contributed to a positive workflow. Mention any tools or practices you used that facilitated collaboration to demonstrate your proactive approach.

When responding, share your strategies for keeping your tech knowledge current, whether through online courses, attending workshops, or participating in communities. Mention any specific resources or platforms you rely on, and how your commitment to continuous learning has benefited your professional development.

If applicable, provide details about your involvement in open-source projects. Discuss the contributions you made, the issues you tackled, and the benefits of collaboration with the open-source community. This showcases your initiative and passion for the field and emphasizes your skills in real-world applications.

Tailor your response to reflect your interest in Mapbox’s emphasis on innovation and collaboration in the location tech space. Share specific aspects of their mission that resonate with you, such as their commitment to creating immersive experiences or their groundbreaking work in data publication for the automotive industry. Your enthusiasm for their vision will demonstrate your true interest in the role.