Hiring Kit: Platform Engineer | TechRepublic

Published on January 15th, 2025

In the fast-evolving tech industry, platform engineers play a vital role in designing, implementing, and maintaining the foundational systems that power businesses and applications. As organizations increasingly rely on robust platforms to support their operations, hiring the right platform engineer has never been more crucial. This hiring kit provides essential insights and resources for companies looking to attract, evaluate, and onboard top platform engineering talent.

1. What is a Platform Engineer?

A platform engineer is responsible for building and maintaining the infrastructure that supports software applications. They ensure that systems are scalable, reliable, and efficient, often working with cloud technologies, automation tools, and microservices. Platform engineers bridge the gap between software development and system administration, playing a key role in managing the technical architecture of an organization.

2. Key Skills and Qualifications for Platform Engineers

When hiring a platform engineer, certain skills and qualifications are essential to ensure success in the role. These include:

• Proficiency in Programming: Knowledge of languages like Python, Java, and Go is often required for building and automating systems.
• Cloud and DevOps Expertise: Familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, along with DevOps practices, is crucial for managing modern infrastructure.
• System Administration Knowledge: Understanding of Linux and Unix systems, along with experience in managing virtual machines and containers, is vital.
• Networking and Security: A solid grasp of networking protocols and cybersecurity practices ensures platform security and efficiency.

3. Steps to Hire a Platform Engineer

Hiring a platform engineer involves several steps to find the ideal candidate for your organization. These steps typically include:

• Creating a Clear Job Description: Be specific about the responsibilities, skills, and experience required for the role to attract the right candidates.
• Sourcing Candidates: Use various channels such as job boards, recruitment agencies, and social networks to find qualified candidates.
• Interviewing Candidates: Focus on technical assessments, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit during interviews.
• Onboarding and Integration: Once hired, provide training and integration into the team to ensure a smooth transition.

4. Challenges in Hiring Platform Engineers

While the demand for platform engineers is high, finding the right talent can be challenging. Competition for skilled engineers is fierce, and companies may struggle to find candidates with the right combination of technical expertise and soft skills. Additionally, with the rapid pace of technological advancements, platform engineers need to stay updated on the latest tools and methodologies, making ongoing professional development essential.

Conclusion

Hiring a platform engineer is a critical decision for any organization focused on technological growth and innovation. By understanding the key responsibilities, skills, and hiring steps, companies can improve their chances of attracting the best candidates for the role. While challenges may arise in the recruitment process, the right platform engineer can be a game-changer, helping businesses build scalable, secure, and efficient systems that support their long-term success.