Senior Software Engineer - Backend

To apply for the Senior Software Engineer - Backend role at Nielsen, candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. It's also important to have 4 to 6 years of professional experience in software development, emphasizing programming languages such as Java, Python, C++, or GoLang, as well as experience with RESTful APIs and microservices architecture.

As a Senior Software Engineer - Backend at Nielsen, your primary responsibilities include designing, developing, and maintaining scalable Java applications. You will collaborate with various teams to gather requirements, conduct code reviews, troubleshoot applications, and stay updated with emerging technologies. Your role will also involve mentoring junior engineers, ensuring a culture of growth and learning within the team.

For the Senior Software Engineer - Backend position at Nielsen, familiarity with Java frameworks such as Spring and Hibernate is essential. Additionally, understanding of database systems like MySQL and PostgreSQL, experience with event-driven architectures, and knowledge of CI/CD tools and practices will be beneficial. Experience with cloud platforms and containerization technologies is also preferred.

To prepare for the Senior Software Engineer - Backend interview at Nielsen, focus on brushing up your skills in Java and relevant frameworks. Review your experience with collaborative projects and be ready to discuss how you tackle coding challenges. Additionally, familiarize yourself with Nielsen’s initiatives and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the company’s goals in the media landscape.

The work environment for a Senior Software Engineer - Backend at Nielsen is collaborative and inclusive, promoting professional growth and development. With flexible work hours and remote work options, employees are encouraged to maintain a healthy work-life balance. The culture champions teamwork, innovation, and continuous learning, making it an exciting place to advance your career.

When answering this question, focus on specific frameworks you've utilized, such as Spring or Hibernate. Discuss your experience with implementing features and resolving issues using these frameworks, and give examples of how they contributed to the success of your projects.

In your response, emphasize your adherence to coding standards, use of meaningful naming conventions, and the importance of commenting and documentation. Explain the benefits of writing clean code in terms of team collaboration and future scalability of applications.

Choose a specific project related to backend development that posed significant challenges. Discuss the obstacles encountered, such as technical limitations or team dynamics, and articulate the strategies you implemented to address these issues, showcasing your problem-solving skills.

Discuss your methods for ensuring clear communication and setting expectations with product managers and designers. Highlight any tools you use for collaboration, such as project management software, and provide examples of successful team projects.

Mention the resources you utilize to stay informed—such as relevant blogs, forums, online courses, or conferences. Discuss how learning new technologies impacts your work and the overall growth of your team.

Share examples of projects where you implemented microservices, detailing how they improved the functionality and scalability of the applications. Discuss any challenges faced during the transition to a microservices architecture and how you addressed them.

Explain your approach to code reviews, highlighting the importance of fostering a positive environment. Discuss the aspects you focus on, such as code efficiency, adherence to best practices, and potential improvements, providing examples of constructive feedback you’ve successfully given.

Outline any cloud services you are familiar with, such as AWS or Azure. Discuss how you’ve used these platforms in past projects, including deployment strategies, scalability, and how they facilitated collaboration across teams.

Detail the steps you follow when encountering bugs, from initial assessment to resolution. Provide examples of issues you've resolved, emphasizing your analytical thinking and systematic problem-solving abilities.

Discuss your understanding of DevOps principles and practices, including CI/CD tools that you've utilized to streamline deployment. Share how adopting DevOps has impacted your workflow and the overall productivity of your team.