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Job Analysis:
This Senior Software Engineer role within Riot’s Data Foundations team is fundamentally about empowering the company’s diverse data consumers—ranging from engineers to analysts—by building and refining robust systems that streamline data usage, automation, and reporting. The candidate is expected to bridge technical depth with cross-functional collaboration, translating data pipeline and warehousing expertise into scalable solutions that enhance Riot’s Machine Learning, GenAI, and broader data ecosystems. The emphasis on Python, SQL, and data warehousing experience reflects the technical foundation needed, while Agile and DevOps familiarity speaks to a fast-paced, iterative development environment where continuous delivery and operational reliability are paramount. The challenge lies in balancing the complexity of globally distributed systems with the need for accessible, user-friendly tools that serve Riot’s internal customers—referred to as Rioters. Success in this role isn’t just technical excellence but also producing tangible impact felt across teams, improving development velocity and data consumption capabilities. Additional desired skills with ML Operations and open-source ETL frameworks denote Riot’s forward-looking use of advanced data infrastructure. Given the requirement to support live systems via on-call rotations and provide insightful peer code reviews, this role demands both autonomy and strong judgment in problem-solving, especially when navigating ambiguity or user needs that cross technical and non-technical lines. In the first 6-12 months, a successful candidate would likely demonstrate ownership of key automation improvements, foster close collaboration with product partners, and contribute to scalable data solutions facilitating Riot’s data-driven decision making and innovation initiatives.
Company Analysis:
Riot Games is a globally recognized leader and innovator in the gaming industry, with a rich history centered on community-driven game development and expanding entertainment ecosystems. Their position as a major player with iconic titles like League of Legends and VALORANT situates Riot as both a mature and growth-focused organization, fostering innovation particularly in esports and entertainment beyond traditional gaming. The company culture strongly values collaboration, inclusiveness, and respect—reflecting a mission to nurture both player and workplace communities under principles like the Summoner’s Code, emphasizing personal integrity and teamwork. This inclusive and mission-driven atmosphere suggests that success at Riot goes beyond technical prowess; it requires cultural alignment, humility, and a strong orientation toward helping colleagues and internal customers. The role fits into a dynamic engineering team environment under an engineering manager, blending individual technical leadership with active collaboration across product and cross-functional teams, likely granting meaningful visibility internally. Riot’s progressive policies on work-life balance, diversity, and equitable treatment underscore the company’s commitment to supporting Rioters holistically, which can be a decisive factor for those seeking sustainability and purpose in their career. Strategically, this hire supports Riot’s broader data ambitions — enhanced automation, ML, and GenAI readiness — making it a growth and innovation-centered role crucial to scaling the company’s data capabilities as it continues to evolve technologically and culturally.
