Update engineering promotion process documentation
Pending reviewEngineering Promotion Process
Overview
Promotions follow a three-phase process with quarterly calibration cycles.
Phase 1: Self-Nomination
Write a promotion packet mapping your work to the target level's competencies. Your manager reviews the packet before submission.
Packet sections:
- Impact summary with specific metrics
- Technical contributions mapped to target-level competencies
- Cross-team collaboration examples
- Mentorship or leadership evidence
Phase 2: Peer Review
Two senior engineers (target level or above) review your packet and provide written feedback.
Choosing reviewers:
- Pick people with firsthand knowledge of your work
- Ideally from different projects or teams
- Must be at or above the target level
- Your manager can suggest names, but the choice is yours
Phase 3: Calibration
Engineering leadership reviews all submitted packets quarterly and makes promotion decisions.
Calibration schedule: March, June, September, December
Packet deadline: 3 weeks before each calibration cycle
Tips
- Start your packet early — don't wait until the deadline
- Include specific, measurable impact (metrics, project outcomes)
- Strongest packets show sustained impact across multiple quarters
Engineering Promotion Process
How to get promoted
Talk to your manager about your interest in promotion. They will evaluate your readiness and advocate on your behalf during the next review cycle.
Timeline
Promotions are reviewed annually during the Q4 performance cycle. Your manager will let you know if you're being considered.
Questions
Reach out to your manager or the People Ops team in #people-ops on Slack.
Engineering Promotion Process
Overview
Promotions follow a three-phase process with quarterly calibration cycles.
Phase 1: Self-Nomination
Write a promotion packet mapping your work to the target level's competencies. Your manager reviews the packet before submission.
Packet sections:
- Impact summary with specific metrics
- Technical contributions mapped to target-level competencies
- Cross-team collaboration examples
- Mentorship or leadership evidence
Phase 2: Peer Review
Two senior engineers (target level or above) review your packet and provide written feedback.
Choosing reviewers:
- Pick people with firsthand knowledge of your work
- Ideally from different projects or teams
- Must be at or above the target level
- Your manager can suggest names, but the choice is yours
Phase 3: Calibration
Engineering leadership reviews all submitted packets quarterly and makes promotion decisions.
Calibration schedule: March, June, September, December
Packet deadline: 3 weeks before each calibration cycle
Tips
- Start your packet early — don't wait until the deadline
- Include specific, measurable impact (metrics, project outcomes)
- Strongest packets show sustained impact across multiple quarters