Have you ever wondered what it's like to navigate the world of software engineering at Encora? Come along with Emilio Gonzalez and get a glimpse into his daily life as a software engineer with almost five years of experience. Emilio has had the opportunity to carve out an exciting and dynamic career path right here at Encora, and he's here to share his journey with you. Let's get an exclusive, inside look at what it's like to work at Encora through his perspective!
Work-Life Harmony: Daily Routine
My day begins at 8 a.m., after several hours of fasting due to my intermittent fasting routine. I kickstart it with some hydration and a ride on my scooter, making an important breakfast stop at the nearest convenience store or café. This morning ride is one of my favorite times of the day, as I have a deep passion for vehicles, and my scooter holds a special place in my heart.
Thanks to the time difference between Costa Rica and San Francisco, I usually start working at 9 or 10 a.m. I'm a platform engineer working for a cybersecurity client, and I'm part of a dynamic team consisting of 2 to 3 teammates. Our main goal is to meet our quarterly commitments, and we work as a well-coordinated team, dividing tasks among ourselves. Around 11-12 p.m., we have our daily stand-up meeting to discuss our progress, address any obstacles, and sort out the day's finer details.
Lunchtime is my break, and while I typically enjoy the peace and quiet for focused work, I also value a good tune. When I'm seeking inspiration, my playlist spans from Latin American melodies to the timeless classics of the Beatles.
After lunch, I'm back in the groove. The pair programming sessions that we've introduced following lunch have added a refreshing dynamic to our work routine. These sessions typically involve 2 to 3 teammates closely collaborating on various tasks and projects. It's a time when we come together to brainstorm, and collectively problem-solve. What makes these sessions effective is the different perspectives they bring to the table. Each team member has their strengths and insights, and when we join forces, it leads to innovative solutions.
At around 3-4 p.m., I hit the pause button to recharge and unwind. I primarily work from home, but I've recently discovered the benefits of commuting to the office in the afternoons for a change of scenery and some additional amenities. The office offers some fantastic facilities, including a gym and a park that help me wind down during breaks. Additionally, I've found joy in treating myself to a mochaccino from a nearby coffee shop. This delightful blend of flavors and caffeine brings me happiness in under 30 seconds, making it a small but much-appreciated indulgence in my daily routine.
As the day winds down, after my break, I focus on individual tasks, a strategic and practical approach that ensures I complete my work efficiently, leading to a sense of achievement and a smoother transition into my personal time. After work, I make it a point to meet up with friends. We head out for a well-deserved break and a chance to reset our minds.
A Dynamic Role in Software Engineering
In my role as a senior software engineer at Encora, I find that no two days are the same. It's far from monotonous; I work in a diverse landscape, often taking on the role of a technical leader, guiding my team through complex challenges. Collaboration is key, and I work closely with product management, engineering leadership, and the team to break down problems and explore potential solutions. My work involves using a variety of programming languages, including Ruby, TypeScript, and JavaScript, to tackle these challenges. It goes beyond simply addressing customer questions, it involves delving into the heart of the issue to innovate and create comprehensive solutions that evolve alongside the product itself.
One of the primary challenges I encounter is managing deadlines. It's not just about meeting them, it's about setting them accurately. In the dynamic world of software development, estimating the time required for a task can be complex, demanding a fine balance between speed, quality, and precision. Navigating this delicate balance keeps me on my toes, ensuring that projects stay on track, and my team consistently delivers top-notch results.
What I cherish most about Encora is the trust and collaboration among our team members. Knowing that I can rely on my colleagues to share commitments and work collaboratively makes all the difference. This trust enables me to excel in my diverse role and find satisfaction in the work I do. My story at Encora illustrates how the right workplace environment, opportunities for growth, and a supportive team can propel one's career to new heights!
Currently, I'm embarking on a fresh challenge. I've received an invitation to join Encora's Generative AI practice. This opportunity involves training in an innovative field that embodies a new vision for our business, alongside colleagues from different divisions. The topics we'll be delving into are truly exciting, and I'm anticipating how we can harness Generative AI to unlock its potential. My journey at Encora continues to be an incredible blend of growth and collaboration, both professionally and personally.
Join Our Global Engineering Team
Encora prioritizes the well-being and success of our Innovation Leaders, offering a work culture that empowers them to reach their full potential. We actively encourage professional growth and personal development. Join us for an exciting career journey, as we're seeking passionate professionals to make a difference in our dynamic team. Check out our most common job openings below:
Net Full Stack Developer
- Required Experience: 5-9 years
- Proficiency in C#, .NET, MS SQL
- Familiarity with any UI tech stack such as Angular
- Expertise in OOP, SOA, microservices, and design patterns
- Hands-on experience building RESTful APIs
- Proficient in .Net Core/ASP.NET Core
- Strong grasp of Object-Oriented Design principles
Java Backend Developer
- Required Experience: 4-10 years
- Familiarity with agile/iterative development methodologies (XP, SCRUM, etc.)
- Experience with continuous integration tools
- Strong command of object-oriented design and Java programming, including open-source frameworks like Spring, Hibernate, and Junit TestNG, Mockito
- Knowledge of HTTP protocol, WebSockets
- Proficiency in JavaScript and web technologies for the browser (HTML, XML, CSS, jQuery)
- Real-world experience in building large-scale, high-availability applications
- Experience developing web services using REST approaches
You can also follow in Emilio Gonzalez's footsteps as we dive into the exciting world of software engineering at Encora. Discover how you can be part of our thriving global team.
Join us on this adventure! www.encorajobs.com
