Software Engineer - Backend (Persistence)

As a Software Engineer - Backend (Persistence) at ServiceNow, you will be responsible for managing explosive data growth, ensuring the availability and responsiveness of our systems. Your key tasks include developing and optimizing performance on relational databases, collaborating with stakeholders to drive operational features to completion, and troubleshooting complex production issues to maintain high standards of performance and reliability.

To qualify for the Software Engineer - Backend (Persistence) position at ServiceNow, you should have over 6 years of software development experience, particularly in core Java. Additionally, experience working with relational databases such as PostgreSQL, MariaDB, or Oracle is essential. Familiarity with troubleshooting difficult production issues and an aptitude for learning new technologies quickly will also make you a strong candidate.

At ServiceNow, we believe in continuous learning and growth. As a Software Engineer - Backend (Persistence), you'll have access to various resources for professional development, including training programs, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to the latest technologies like AI. We encourage our employees to challenge themselves and explore innovative solutions within our collaborative and inspiring work environment.

The team culture at ServiceNow is centered around collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation. As a Software Engineer - Backend (Persistence), you'll find yourself in a supportive environment where every voice is valued. We foster open communication, promote diversity, and encourage team members to share unique perspectives, ensuring we collectively achieve our goals while enjoying the journey.

In your role as a Software Engineer - Backend (Persistence) at ServiceNow, you will work extensively with core Java and relational databases such as PostgreSQL, MariaDB, and Oracle. Additionally, exposure to DevOps environments and familiarity with Unix shell can enhance your contributions. Preparing to tackle performance, scalability, and reliability challenges will be a part of your exciting journey in this role.

When answering this question, showcase your experience with specific projects that involved managing large datasets. Highlight any technologies or databases used, the challenges faced, and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your practical knowledge and problem-solving skills in a relevant context.

Database performance optimization is crucial because it directly affects application efficiency, loading times, and user experience. In your response, explain how optimizing queries, indexing, and utilizing proper database architecture can lead to improved performance, ultimately benefiting both the application and the end-users.

Describe a systematic approach to troubleshooting, including identifying the issue, gathering logs, analyzing stack traces, and using monitoring tools. Make sure to illustrate a specific example where your troubleshooting skills led to a resolution, showcasing your ability to remain calm under pressure and solve complex problems.

In your response, discuss strategies like implementing automated testing, continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) practices, and regular maintenance schedules. Mention the importance of monitoring tools and feedback loops to detect and resolve issues before they impact end users.

Share your experience in designing and developing APIs, focusing on principles like RESTful design, documentation, and security. Explain how APIs serve as a bridge between frontend and backend systems, allowing for seamless data exchange and integration.

Convey your commitment to continuous learning by mentioning resources you utilize, such as online courses, tech blogs, and community forums. Discuss how you experiment with new technologies in personal projects to keep your skills sharp and relevant.

Outline a specific project, detailing your role, the technologies used, challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved. Focus on your contributions and how your skills made a difference, demonstrating both technical expertise and teamwork.

Discuss principles like separation of concerns, single responsibility, and the importance of clear interfaces. Provide examples of how modularizing code helps improve maintainability, readability, and testability, making it easier to manage complex systems.

DevOps plays a pivotal role in streamlining collaboration between development and operations teams, emphasizing automation, monitoring, and feedback loops. Discuss how this culture enhances deployment speed and reliability, giving the organization a competitive edge.

Share your understanding of secure coding practices, such as input validation, authentication, and data encryption. Mention specific tools or methodologies like OWASP guidelines that you follow to keep your code and systems secure.