Favorite Parts of Being a Senior Software Engineer at a Fortune 100 Company
Alec, a senior software engineer, finds satisfaction in the established team dynamics, stating that "I know how to do my job," allowing for balanced workflow and impactful product influence. The reach of Alec's work, touching "millions of people," provides significant personal fulfillment despite the anonymity of the role.
Software Engineering, Product Influence, Large-Scale Impact, Teamwork, Career Progression
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Alec Reitter
Senior Software Engineer
Fortune 100 Technology Company
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
none
Computer Science
Arts, Entertainment & Media, Technology
Product / Service / Software Development and Management
Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Senior software engineers can influence product development and have a say in how things are done.
2. The role allows for a good work-life balance due to experience and established processes.
3. The work impacts millions of people, creating a sense of fulfillment despite anonymity to users.
Transcript
What do you enjoy most about being in your current role as Senior Software Engineer?
I would say that there are two things. Some of this is specific to the team that I'm on at the company, but I really like that I know how to do my job. I've been doing it for a while, and you kind of understand the rhythms, the personalities, and how things work.
This really helps to keep things in balance. I also really like being able to influence the product. I used to think that I wanted to go into management because I wanted to have more say in how things are done.
I came to realize that management means I'm not building anything anymore. No offense to managers out there, but I don't want to manage people. I do want to have influence on the product, and because of my tenure, status, and relationships, I still feel like I get to have the say that I want.
I also trust many people and believe in their skills. I'm not going to second-guess people all the time, but I will provide input, and I do like that a lot.
The second major thing that I like about my role and position is that the product I build touches millions of people. There's something to be said for doing something that, even though people don't know your name, you are touching their lives. This is rewarding in many ways.
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