Context: Searching for a new senior level software development job over a 9 week period in summer 2025.

  • Focused mostly on data engineering and backend roles that are in-person or hybrid in the SF Bay Area.
  • Leads from recruiters on LinkedIn were much more likely to lead to interviews+offers.
  • The winning offer came through my personal network.
  • I mostly used Hiring.cafe for prospecting. They’re a scraper with an interface I didn’t hate.
  • Rhaedas@fedia.io
    7·
    3 days ago

    Any of the screening or application through AI? From what I’ve seen that is more a slap in the face than being rejected or ignored.

    I find it not surprising the final success was through networking - my son got into his work because he happened to run into someone who helped get his foot in the door, and would probably not be at his level now had he gone through the usual process.

    • deegeese@sopuli.xyzOPEnglish
      10·
      3 days ago

      There was one application where the first reply was asking me to do a 2hr coding test solo using their secure coding environment.

      If I had spoken with a recruiter and they said I seemed like a worthwhile candidate and asked me to complete it as a screener, sure thing.

      Instead I got the impression no human had looked at me and that I was being jerked around by automation. No way I’m going to be to waste 2 hours pouring effort into a black hole.

      I’m sure the ATSs are using AI for early screening, but all I can see is the responses or lack thereof.