Senior Software Engineer, Data Platform

About the Role

The role is centered around developing software and working with vast amounts of data, leveraging your expertise in data architectures and data delivery to drive business outcomes. You will be responsible for designing and implementing scalable, efficient, and reliable data systems, ensuring that these systems meet the evolving needs of Gusto and its customers. Your work will be instrumental in helping Gusto achieve its goals, from enhancing its payroll and health insurance services to expanding its HR and 401(k) offerings.

Given the nature of Gusto's business, which involves handling sensitive payroll, health insurance, and 401(k) information for over 400,000 small businesses across the United States, the importance of data integrity, security, and compliance cannot be overstated. As such, the Senior Software Engineer must not only be adept at handling complex data systems but also be meticulous about ensuring the highest standards of data protection and adherence to relevant regulatory requirements.

What You Will Do

• Architect, build, and refine Gusto's data infrastructure and tools to enable other teams to work effectively with data.
• Handle vast amounts of clickstream, database, and third-party application data, processing both in batch and real-time to support the company's operations.
• Take full ownership of the solutions you build, working closely with stakeholders to develop requirements, implement solutions, monitor production, and troubleshoot problems as they arise.
• Collaborate as part of a team, sharing knowledge and best practices to contribute to the growth and success of Gusto's data capabilities.
• Develop and maintain modern data stacks in production, ensuring they are scalable, efficient, and meet the evolving needs of the business.
• Contribute to the development of data pipelines at scale, utilizing tools like Airflow and Python.
• Work with OLAP databases, such as Clickhouse, to support data analytics and business intelligence.
• Participate in the design and implementation of streaming systems, such as Kafka or Kinesis, to facilitate real-time data processing.
• Engage with cross-functional teams to identify data needs and develop solutions that meet those needs.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends in data engineering and architecture, applying this knowledge to continuously improve Gusto's data infrastructure.

What We Are Looking For

• At least 7 years of software engineering experience, with a focus on data infrastructure and cloud-based solutions.
• Experience building solutions in the cloud, with AWS preferred, including technologies like Redshift, MSK, and EMR.
• Proficiency with OLAP databases, such as Clickhouse, and experience with building data pipelines at scale using Airflow and Python.
• Experience with streaming systems, such as Kafka or Kinesis, and the ability to design and implement these systems.
• Ability to turn vague requirements into clear deliverables with minimal guidance, demonstrating strong problem-solving and communication skills.
• Experience building and maintaining a modern data stack in production, with a focus on scalability, efficiency, and reliability.
• Strong understanding of data architectures and data delivery, with the ability to architect solutions that meet business needs.
• Experience working in a remote or distributed team environment, with excellent collaboration and communication skills.

Nice to Have

• Experience with additional cloud providers, such as Google Cloud Platform or Microsoft Azure, and their respective data services.
• Knowledge of containerization using Docker and orchestration using Kubernetes.
• Familiarity with agile development methodologies and version control systems like Git.
• Experience with data security and compliance, particularly in relation to payroll, health insurance, and 401(k) data.
• Certification in cloud computing, data engineering, or a related field.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive cash compensation, with a target range of
  63,000-$204,000/year in Denver,

  78,000-$223,000/year in Los Angeles, and

  97,000-$247,000/year for San Francisco, New York, and Seattle.
• Opportunity to work with a dynamic and growing company that is making a significant impact in the small business economy.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, 401(k), and paid time off.
• Flexible working environment, with the option to work remotely and participate in Gusto's hybrid office model.
• Access to the latest technologies and tools, with a budget for professional development and continuous learning.
• Collaborative and inclusive company culture, with a strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Opportunity to work on challenging and meaningful projects that have a direct impact on the success of small businesses.

• Highlight your cloud experience: Given the emphasis on cloud-based solutions, particularly with AWS, make sure your resume and cover letter showcase your experience and proficiency in these areas.
• Prepare to discuss data architecture: Be ready to dive deep into your approach to data architecture, including how you design, build, and maintain data systems, and how you ensure scalability and reliability.
• Showcase your collaboration skills: As this role involves working closely with cross-functional teams, provide examples of how you have successfully collaborated with stakeholders in previous positions.
• Demonstrate your problem-solving skills: Come prepared with examples of complex data-related problems you've solved, and walk the interviewer through your thought process and solution.
• Be ready to discuss your experience with data pipelines and streaming systems: Given the role's emphasis on handling vast amounts of data, be prepared to discuss your experience with building data pipelines and working with streaming systems.
• Research Gusto's culture and values: Show your enthusiasm for the company's mission and values, and be prepared to discuss how your own values and approach to work align with those of Gusto.