Are you comfortable working 'behind the scenes'? Alternatively, are you comfortable coming out and being in the 'spotlight'?

How to Answer
Answer Example

Compared to Data Scientists, Data Engineers tend to work 'behind-the-scenes' since their work is completed much earlier in the data analysis project timeline. Decision makers in the company aren't always interested in how the data is made available. Instead, they are usually more interested understanding the learnings Data Scientists glean from the data using their statistical and machine learning models. Your answer to this question will reveal a bit about your personality - whether you only thrive in the 'spotlight' or are you able to work in both types of situations?

"As a Data Engineer, I am used to working 'behind the scenes'. What's more important to me than being in the 'spotlight' is being an expert in my field and having a positive impact on the company through my work. I take pride in the work that I do and how I can set the company up for success. However, I do not shy away from the 'spotlight' when necessary. If there is an issue within my department that requires attention from my manager and/or company executives, such as the need for additional resources, I do not avoid bringing attention to it for the good of our team's work and ultimately the company."

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How to Answer: Are you comfortable working 'behind the scenes'? Alternatively, are you comfortable coming out and being in the 'spotlight'?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Data Engineer job interview.

9. Are you comfortable working 'behind the scenes'? Alternatively, are you comfortable coming out and being in the 'spotlight'?

How to Answer

Compared to Data Scientists, Data Engineers tend to work 'behind-the-scenes' since their work is completed much earlier in the data analysis project timeline. Decision makers in the company aren't always interested in how the data is made available. Instead, they are usually more interested understanding the learnings Data Scientists glean from the data using their statistical and machine learning models. Your answer to this question will reveal a bit about your personality - whether you only thrive in the 'spotlight' or are you able to work in both types of situations?

Written by Helen Lee on June 15th, 2018

Answer Example

"As a Data Engineer, I am used to working 'behind the scenes'. What's more important to me than being in the 'spotlight' is being an expert in my field and having a positive impact on the company through my work. I take pride in the work that I do and how I can set the company up for success. However, I do not shy away from the 'spotlight' when necessary. If there is an issue within my department that requires attention from my manager and/or company executives, such as the need for additional resources, I do not avoid bringing attention to it for the good of our team's work and ultimately the company."

Written by Helen Lee on June 15th, 2018

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