Software Engineer, Backend

As a Software Engineer, Backend at Otter.ai, you will be responsible for developing and managing web services using your Python expertise. Key responsibilities include building efficient business logic with web frameworks like Django, working with various databases including MySQL and Cassandra, and deploying system solutions that serve enterprise clients. Additionally, you’ll utilize tools such as Nginx and Kafka to enhance backend performance while ensuring robust coding practices.

To qualify for the Software Engineer, Backend role at Otter.ai, candidates should have at least 2 years of experience in developing large-scale web services. A bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field is required, alongside proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Go, Java, or C++. Familiarity with web frameworks like Django and experience with databases, distributed systems, and AWS are also essential for this role.

In the Software Engineer, Backend role at Otter.ai, you will work with a variety of technologies including Python, Django, MySQL, and Redis for backend development, as well as tools like Kafka and Cassandra for messaging and data storage. Understanding of AWS environments and big data platforms will also be beneficial in successfully executing your job responsibilities.

At Otter.ai, the work culture is collaborative and innovative, especially for Software Engineers in the backend department. You will join a dynamic team that celebrates diversity and encourages open communication. The company is committed to making conversations more valuable and fosters an inclusive environment where every team member can thrive and contribute effectively to exciting projects.

In the Software Engineer, Backend position at Otter.ai, agile development methodologies are typically employed. This allows for iterative development, frequent feedback, and flexibility, enabling the team to adapt and enhance web services rapidly. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, ensuring that the end product aligns with business and user needs for effective solution deployment.

In answering this question, highlight specific projects where you utilized Python effectively. Discuss how you built business logic, managed databases, or integrated frameworks like Django. Share any challenges you faced and how you overcame them, showcasing your problem-solving skills and adaptability in backend environments.

For this question, outline your direct experience with Django, including projects where you've developed web applications or services. Talk about features you've implemented, such as REST APIs, and emphasize your understanding of MVC architecture and how it helps structure your backend processes.

Discuss various methods such as optimization of database queries, utilizing caching with Redis, or load balancing techniques. Be sure to mention specific performance measurement tools or metrics you use, and highlight any real-world examples where you've successfully improved application performance.

Share your experience with distributed systems, mentioning specific technologies you've utilized like Kafka or Cassandra. Discuss a particular challenge, such as latency or data consistency, and describe how you approached it, showcasing your analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Explain the fundamentals of database schema design, such as normalization, indexing, and transaction management. Refer to a project where you designed a schema, detailing the thought process behind your choices and how they impacted application performance and scalability.

Provide a succinct overview of the workings of HTTP/HTTPS protocols, including request/response cycles and security measures in HTTPS. Relate this knowledge to your backend development by discussing how you handle communications between the client and server in your applications.

Share your practical experience working with AWS services in previous projects. Mention specific services you’ve used like EC2, S3, or RDS, and explain how these tools facilitated the backend processes. Highlight your familiarity with deploying applications in cloud environments for scalability and reliability.

Discuss practices such as writing unit tests, adhering to coding standards, and conducting code reviews. Emphasize the importance of documentation and how it plays a role in maintaining code quality over time, ensuring that your contributions are sustainable and team-friendly.

Here, demonstrate your ability to manage priorities by discussing project management techniques you use, such as Agile methodologies or Kanban boards. Share an instance where you successfully met a tight deadline, emphasizing your organizational skills and ability to collaborate with team members.

Express your passion for technology and problem-solving inherent in backend development. Discuss how building scalable systems and optimizing performance excite you, and how this passion drives your continuous learning and professional growth in the field.