Life as a Technical non-software-engineer at Google in gTech gPS
Working at Google, a global leader in technology and innovation, is a dream for many professionals. While the company is renowned for its software engineering roles, Google also offers exciting opportunities for technical non-software engineers in its gTech gPS (Google Professional Services) division.
We will delve into the unique experiences of being a technical non-software engineer at Google gTech gPS, the role’s responsibilities, and the valuable contributions these professionals make to Google’s success.
About Me
My personal desire to share this story stems from my experience of over a year in Google’s gTech gPS division, following a career of more than five years as a Software Engineer in the finance sector. See my personal website and Linkedin for more about me!
As of July, 2023 I work as a Technical Solution Architect or Advertising Solutions Architect. You may find these referenced as ASA, TSC, TSA, on career pages and other material.
The Role of a Technical Non-Software Engineer at gTech gPS
Google’s gTech gPS team is a specialized department within gTech that focuses on providing expert technical solutions and professional services to Google’s enterprise customers. These technical non-software engineers play a pivotal role in ensuring that businesses and organizations receive exceptional support, tailored solutions, and seamless integrations with Google’s suite of products and services. They also help customers make the most optimal use of Google products, with the primary goal of helping their clients have a better experience, in turn helping them reach their business objectives, which eventually helps Google benefit in the long term through a strong relationship.
Responsibilities and Opportunities
Technical non-software engineers at gTech gPS have a wide array of responsibilities and opportunities to make a significant impact.
Technical Consultations
As trusted advisors, gTech gPS engineers collaborate closely with enterprise clients, understanding their unique requirements, and providing tailored technical solutions that align with their key business objectives.
Solution Implementation
These engineers are hands-on in implementing tools and configuring Google’s products, ensuring seamless integration and efficient operation within the client’s existing systems and infrastructure.
Troubleshooting and Support
gPS engineers resolve complex technical issues, providing timely and effective support to address any challenges that clients may encounter during the implementation or usage of Google’s products.
Product and Technology Expertise
Google’s ever-evolving suite of products requires gTech gPS engineers to stay at the forefront of technological advancements. They continuously expand their knowledge to remain experts in their respective domains.
Project Management
Take charge of managing projects, ensuring that timelines are met, and deliverables are executed flawlessly to achieve optimal client satisfaction.
EXAMPLE
An example based on my personal experience of a task involving all the responsibilities mentioned is to assist customers with conversion optimization of their ad-spend through post-ad-click performance improvement of their website user experience. This could be done through UX/UI improvements based on behavior analysis of their customer and data insights, and through improving the technical speed of their website (e.g. how quickly things load).
Advantages of Working in gTech gPS
Impactful Client Engagements
Technical engineers at gTech work closely with major enterprises, helping them leverage Google’s technologies to enhance their operations and drive business growth. Working with different enterprises not only provides networking opportunities but also increases exposure to how key players in a variety of industries use technology to power their products and services.
Collaborative and Innovative Environment
Google fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. gTech gPS engineers have the opportunity to collaborate with diverse, cross-functional teams and tackle exciting technical challenges.
Professional Growth
Google is committed to the growth and development of its employees. Technical non-software engineers have access to extensive training resources, certifications, and mentorship programs to enhance their skills and expertise.
Global Reach
As part of a multinational company, gTech gPS engineers have the chance to work with clients from around the world, gaining exposure to different industries and cultures.
Comparing Technical Non-Software Engineering in gTech gPS to Software Engineering at Google
While both technical non-software engineering roles in Google’s gTech gPS division and software engineering positions share a foundation in technology and problem-solving, they differ in their focus, responsibilities, and areas of expertise.
Focus and Expertise
- gPS-ers are experts in providing technical solutions, support, and consultation to enterprise clients. Their expertise lies in configuring, integrating, and troubleshooting Google’s products within complex business environments. They excel in understanding clients’ requirements and delivering tailored solutions to meet their specific needs.
- Software engineers are primarily responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications and systems that power Google’s products and services. Their expertise lies in programming languages, software design principles, and scalable architecture development. They focus on creating robust, efficient, and user-friendly software solutions.
Client Interaction
- gPS-ers have significant client interaction as they collaborate closely with enterprise customers. They act as technical advisors, building strong relationships, understanding client challenges, and offering solutions that align with the client’s business objectives.
- Software engineers may interact with product managers and internal stakeholders, their primary focus is on developing and improving software products. They work within engineering teams and have less direct client interaction.
Problem Complexity
- The technical challenges faced by gTech gPS-ers can be highly diverse and intricate, as they cater to the unique needs of enterprise clients. They must navigate complex integration scenarios and address various technical issues, requiring adaptability and deep technical knowledge.
- Software engineers often deal with complex coding challenges and architectural design, especially when working on large-scale systems. They need to ensure code efficiency, scalability, and maintainability while meeting product requirements.
Scope of Impact
- The impact of gTech gPS-ers is more customer-focused. They directly contribute to the successful implementation and utilization of Google’s products in the clients’ environments, positively impacting their businesses.
- Software engineers contribute to the development and enhancement of Google’s core products and services, which have a broad impact on millions of users worldwide.
Team Dynamics
- gTech gPS-ers often work in smaller, client-focused teams, collaborating closely with customers and internal Google teams to address specific client needs.
- Software engineers work in larger engineering teams, collaborating on building and maintaining complex systems, often focusing on different product features.
Conclusion
Life as a technical non-software engineer at Google in gTech gPS offers an exciting and rewarding career path. These professionals play a crucial role in supporting enterprise clients, delivering tailored technical solutions, and ensuring a seamless experience with Google’s products and services.
Even non-software engineer roles can often involve technical work, including coding, automated testing, deployments, architecture design, and much more. However, each role comes with its own diverse opportunities, gTech, for example, benefits from more exposure to external companies, their challenges, and business needs than the average software engineer who gets to have a significant impact on a specific Google product, but in a bit more of an isolated environment.
With a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and professional growth, Google provides a dynamic environment for technical non-software engineers to thrive and make a meaningful impact on the success of Google and its customers.
Resources
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