Software Engineer, Fullstack CDN

As a Fullstack Software Engineer at Vercel, your primary responsibilities will include designing and building Firewall observability systems for all Vercel customers. You'll collaborate with the Observability and Security teams to integrate the Vercel Firewall into customer workflows, as well as scaling the Firewall user experience to cater to various customer needs, from simple deployments to those with extensive custom rules and high HTTP request volumes.

To qualify for the Fullstack Software Engineer position at Vercel, candidates should have at least 2 years of experience in fullstack engineering. Proficiency in relevant programming languages, specifically TypeScript and Next.js, is essential. Additionally, experience configuring Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) and familiarity with the Vercel platform will be considered a plus.

Vercel offers a competitive compensation package that includes equity, an inclusive healthcare plan, mentorship opportunities, and flexible time off. You’ll also receive a budget to set up your home office and the necessary tools to thrive in your role. With a focus on personal development, Vercel prioritizes your growth through networking and skill-building events.

In the Fullstack Software Engineer role at Vercel, you will work on a variety of projects aimed at improving the security and performance of our services. This includes developing observability features for firewall systems, refining user experiences, and ensuring robust integration of security features within customer workflows. Each project will significantly impact how our customers interact with the Vercel platform.

Vercel is firmly committed to fostering an inclusive community where everyone feels welcome. Our hiring process does not discriminate based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or any other characteristic protected by law. Vercel encourages all individuals to apply for open positions, even if they don't meet every requirement in the job description, as we believe diverse perspectives contribute to our success.

When answering this question, focus on specific projects where you utilized TypeScript and Next.js in your development process. Share challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the positive outcomes of your work. Highlight your familiarity with the frameworks and how they can benefit Vercel's objectives.

To effectively answer this question, discuss your understanding of user needs based on customer profiles. Mention how you would conduct user research, incorporate feedback, and apply best practices in UX design to address both simpler and complex use cases. Emphasize the importance of flexibility and adaptability in your development approach.

In your response, discuss your systematic approach to debugging, such as using logging, testing both front-end and back-end functionalities, and employing tools that help track down issues effectively. Provide a specific example from your prior experience where your debugging skills led to a resolution, demonstrating your analytical mindset.

When answering, express your understanding of security principles such as input validation, secure API communication, and protection against common vulnerabilities like XSS and SQL injection. Share best practices and methodologies you adhere to, ensuring you illustrate how these priorities align with the overall goals of Vercel.

Provide a clear narrative that begins with the context of the problem, the considerations you took into account, and how you approached the solution. Highlight your technical skills and emphasize collaboration with other team members if applicable, ultimately concluding with the successful outcome and its impact on the project.

Discuss your strategies for continuing education, such as attending conferences, taking online courses, or participating in developer communities. Share specific resources you follow or tools you’ve discovered recently that can enhance your work as a Fullstack Software Engineer.

In your response, be candid about your experience with WAF configuration and management. If you haven’t worked directly with WAFs, discuss your familiarity with the concepts and practices that underpin web application security. Be sure to convey your eagerness to learn and adapt in this area.

Highlight the importance of communication and shared goals in your response. Explain your approach to facilitating collaboration through regular meetings, unified documentation, and using tools that enhance project visibility and contributions between teams. Provide examples of successful collaborations from your experience.

Refer to a specific project where collaboration with security or observability teams was crucial. Discuss the objectives, your role, and how team collaboration influenced project success. Conclude by reflecting on the importance of cross-functional collaboration in delivering effective software solutions.

In this response, convey your familiarity with Vercel’s platform and share constructive thoughts on user experience improvements. Discuss feedback you’ve received or ideas for enhancements based on your experience. This demonstrates not only your technical knowledge but also your commitment to enhancing user satisfaction.