Engineering Manager - Search Team (Machine Learning)

The Engineering Manager - Search Team at Zocdoc is responsible for leading a team of engineers and data scientists to deliver high-quality software solutions that enhance healthcare accessibility. This role involves collaborating with product teams to align technical strategies with product roadmaps, driving continuous improvement in the engineering culture, and mentoring team members to ensure high performance. Your goal is to enhance the patient experience on our marketplace through effective leadership and collaboration.

Candidates for the Engineering Manager - Search Team at Zocdoc should have substantial experience in machine learning and a strong background in software development methodologies. A track record of shipping product features and a deep understanding of cloud environments, particularly AWS, are essential. Additionally, excellent communication skills and the ability to foster collaboration within diverse teams are critical for success in this role.

As an Engineering Manager - Search Team, you will play a key role in building a culture of transparency, inclusion, and support within the engineering team at Zocdoc. Your leadership style will help cultivate a work environment that encourages creative problem solving, accountability, and professional growth, ensuring that all team members feel valued and empowered to contribute their best work.

Zocdoc offers a flexible, hybrid work environment that promotes a healthy work-life balance for the Engineering Manager - Search Team. Employees benefit from unlimited PTO, competitive parental leave, wellness programs, and a collaborative workspace designed to inspire creativity and teamwork. It's a setting that values diversity and champions innovation, making it an exciting place to work.

At Zocdoc, the Engineering Manager - Search Team will encounter numerous opportunities for career advancement, such as mentoring team members, participating in cross-team events, and engaging in continuous learning initiatives. You will also play a role in shaping the future of our technology workforce through developing career ladders and strategies aimed at fostering talent and supporting diverse perspectives.

In preparing for this question, consider specific projects you've undertaken that involved machine learning, emphasizing your role in implementing these features. Detail your approach to solving problems through data-driven solutions and how they positively impacted user experience.

To answer this effectively, discuss specific initiatives or practices you've implemented to encourage teamwork and open communication. Provide examples of how you've facilitated cross-team collaborations and shared successes with other stakeholders.

Explain your strategy for prioritizing tasks, emphasizing how you assess technical debt alongside new feature development. Share examples of how you've successfully navigated these challenges to ensure both quality and speed in delivery.

Detail your approach to performance management, including regular check-ins, feedback mechanisms, and recognition practices. Highlight how team morale impacts productivity and how you've actively promoted a positive work environment in the past.

When answering this question, select a project that had significant challenges. Describe the issue, your approach in overcoming it, and the lessons you learned. Highlight your leadership skills and your ability to guide your team through adversity.

Discuss your mentoring philosophy, which might include regular one-on-one meetings, providing constructive feedback, and offering growth opportunities. Mention any specific mentoring experiences that led to successful outcomes for team members.

Articulate your understanding of diversity in tech and its benefits. Mention strategies you would implement, such as inclusive hiring practices and fostering an environment that encourages diverse voices to contribute to discussions.

Share a specific scenario where you effectively managed stakeholder expectations amid competing interests. Highlight your communication skills and negotiation tactics that facilitated a positive outcome.

Outline your experience working with AWS or similar cloud platforms, discussing specific tools and services you've utilized. Elaborate on how this technical knowledge contributes to your role as an Engineering Manager.

Discuss your commitment to continuous learning and knowledge sharing within the team. This might include attending conferences, participating in webinars, or encouraging team members to pursue further education and certifications.