Staff Machine Learning Engineer, Fetch

Fetch really highlighted how every single one of us are here because we are an intelligent and talented member of the team. Fetch doesn't believe in micromanaging, and proves that by giving us communicative leadership that gives us 100% trust to hustle with speed and skill.

Even in my few weeks here at Fetch, I feel that my teammates have taken time to connect with me, check in with my thoughts on projects, and truly want to collaborate/include me on things instead of just demanding things they need/want from me. I feel that it is vital to feel seen, heard, and appreciated to really thrive in one's work environment!

One of the first values I was told was that here at Fetch we challenge ideas not people. We want to continue to push each other to come to the best ideas and results, while continuously maintaining positive energy and a safe space to communicate what we're really feeling. As well as there being many resources for us to quickly find answers to our questions or be directed to the right person to help us!

When I joined, I knew what my focus would be, but as I've grown into my role, I've taken on exciting new projects, even if they're not traditional to my role. Through this, I've developed tremendously and continue to learn faster than I have at previous employers.

You may have a job title at Fetch Rewards, but that doesn't mean you're limited. No one is better because of a title, and no one is lesser because of a title. We all work together to build Fetch Rewards, and Wes (Our Founder) really takes the time to hear out ideas in our weekly townhall. My direct manager is also very supportive and provides me with both positive and constructive feedback as I develop in my role.

Fetch Rewards was 300 employees in 2020, 600+ at the beginning of 2021, and we are very likely to hit 700 by Jan 2022. This momentum isn't new. We've grown quickly, but strategically, since Fetch Rewards launched in 2013. We've gone from 0 to 10 million active users, and we're currently #1 on the app store in our category.

This is one of the few places I've worked that actually understands great products come from giving the dev team a direction, and getting out of their way. I don't think burnout is a major concern, but managers are on the lookout and help developers avoid it.

Teams are empowered to choose the tech stack that best solves their problem. The legacy code that's around is actively being replaced by newer, more appropriate tools.

I work unusual hours. I'm a night owl and hate mornings. I don't get any push back for working non-traditional hours.

We have a lot going on with Fetch Rewards right now and I haven't seen this type of dedication and effort in a company of people! Everyone wants to see this thing succeed and it's awesome to be a part of that.

My engineering manager is amazing. I haven't felt so seen or supported in a company before. Not only do we talk about work stuff and how we can keep things going up and to the right, but they dive into how I am personally doing as well. Love working at a place where people go out of their way to make sure all is well with us.

It's awesome having a flexible work schedule! I am a Dad of 1 (soon to be 2) and life doesn't stop coming at ya. It's nice to know that if I need to run a few errands one morning or afternoon that it's okay. I can figure out what I need to get done and when and that gives my family and I the space we need to get things done and thrive.

The opportunities for advancement, or even a pivot to a different area within the company, are plentiful. Your managers will work with you if you display an interest in doing a different job in the company, or an interest to move up into a higher position.

The leadership of all areas within Fetch is quick to call out great accomplishments and excellent work. Hard work does not go unnoticed.

There is no such thing as a "work-life balance" at Fetch. We all live a life that work is a part of. If something in your life pops up that may interfere with work, the leadership here understands that and allows you to do what you need to do, whether that may be picking a sick kid up from school, running an errand that can't wait until the end of the day, or leaving early for an appointment. It is things like that that make me love to work for this company.

At Fetch Rewards YOU matter. Each employee is an owner, and is empowered to contribute to the mission and outcomes of the company! Teams and individuals can operate with autonomy, guided by strong leaders who clearly communicate vision and direction and clear the way. One of Fetch's core values is defeating the odds – and this is something I see us do every day.

Fetch is incredibly transparent about career progression. Reviews are on the more informal side, and happen often (not restricted to annual like prior companies I've been in). I'm able to focus on the particular areas I'm weak in, and continue to hone the areas I'm strong with regular feedback from my peers and manager.

Wes is the perfect balance of in the weeds and in the clouds. I know that he has my back when I need it, and believe strongly in his vision for Fetch. The entire leadership team bring expertise and compassion and ambition in the areas they lead.

From day one I was blown away by the focus on employee mental health. Taking time off is expected and never met with opposition by management, and ever measure seems to be thought out to avoid burn-out.

Teams take direct ownership of their systems, meaning they get to do everything from ideation to execution to maintenance. Being able to see the whole process means you get to learn from your own mistakes and learn to iterate effectively. On top of that, there is the opportunity to switch teams internally if you feel as though you are stagnating or even just need a change in the work you are doing.

Fetch values everyone's opinions. New hires are treated as equals from day one and input is expected from them in a way that I haven't seen elsewhere.

I joined Fetch as an entry-level marketing employee (with significant experience in a different industry) and was immediately welcomed into the team and given significant responsibilities and opportunities to grow.

As long as you get your work done and communicate with your team, you can work whenever and from wherever you want.

People who come to Fetch from other companies are genuinely shocked (in a good way) by how kind, helpful and approachable everyone is.