Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Firmware Engineers at Zoox
For entry-level positions in firmware, Ryan, a Firmware Manager at Zoox, suggests gaining "experience as a technical contributor," such as a "research and development engineer" or "test engineer." He strongly advises aspiring managers to build a "good, I would say, five years of technical development work" foundation before transitioning into leadership to better understand "what the people that you're gonna be leading are doing."
Entry-Level Jobs, Technical Skills, Management Experience, Career Development, Leadership
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Ryan Gleim
Firmware Manager
Zoox
California Polytechnic State University
California Polytechnic State University
Computer Science
Technology
Product / Service / Software Development and Management
Video Highlights
1. Start with a strong technical foundation: Gain at least five years of experience as a technical contributor (e.g., R&D engineer, software designer, test engineer) before transitioning to management.
2. Prioritize technical expertise: Managers with solid technical backgrounds are more effective and respected. Understanding the technical work of your team is crucial for strong leadership.
3. Entry-level options exist: Explore roles like research and development engineer, software designer, or test engineer to build your experience in the field.
Transcript
What entry-level positions in this field might an undergraduate college student consider?
In this field, it's mostly about gaining experience as a technical contributor. This could be as a research and development engineer, software designer, or test engineer, among other roles.
As someone in management, I have a lot more respect and value for other managers who have significant technical experience. There are people who jump into management sooner, and some are successful while others are not.
A lot of challenges arise if they don't truly understand what they are leading. Therefore, I would definitely encourage new graduates interested in leadership and management to start with at least five years of technical development work. This ensures you really understand what the people you will be leading are doing.
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