The term “10x engineer” has been around in tech for years, and it seems like everyone has their own take on what it means. Is it about writing ten times more code than your peers? Probably not. That overly simplistic definition is one of the reasons why the term can feel so divisive.
In reality, being a 10x engineer isn’t about a single metric or skill. It’s about a unique mix of traits that allow some developers to consistently outperform, making a significant impact on their teams and projects.
While the label might spark debate, the qualities it hints at are worth exploring—because they’re not exclusive to a select few. These traits can be learned and applied, helping any engineer take their work to the next level.
After speaking with thousands of engineers, we’ve noticed a pattern: the best consistently embody certain qualities. Let’s discuss them.
1. Extreme Ownership
10x engineers are all about owning their work.
If they’re on a task, you know it’ll get done right and on time. No flaking, no excuses.
If something goes wrong, they’ll admit it, fix it, and make sure it’s perfect before moving on.
They don’t just focus on their own stuff either. They make sure what they build works smoothly with the rest of the team’s efforts—no extra tweaks needed.
And if they see a teammate's project slowing down? They’ll jump in to help.
It’s never just about “my work” or “your work”—it’s all “our work.”
Kaustumbh Jaiswal, Freelance Software Engineer at Thimblerr, shared:
I think the first and foremost quality that sets apart a good engineer is the "go figure" mentality. If you don't know how to get something done or if you're stuck on an error or issue, you should have the mentality of "This is the problem I'm facing. How do I fix it and solve it on my own?" You can use any resources for it - watch videos, Google search, GPT, AI, anything. You should just get the job done. That "go figure" mentality is really important, along with the eagerness to learn.
2. Deep Curiosity
What sets 10x engineers apart is their insatiable curiosity. They don’t stop at surface-level understanding; they dive deep to uncover the inner workings of systems.
This curiosity isn’t just academic—it has practical benefits. By understanding the architecture deeply, they can spot patterns and solve problems more effectively.
They also explore diverse approaches, making smarter technical decisions. For them, solving a problem isn’t the finish line—it’s the starting point for deeper learning.
Anjalica Suman, Software Engineer at Thimblerr, added:
In my view, one of the key qualities that set apart truly exceptional engineers is an insatiable hunger for knowledge and continuous learning. The best ones are always eager to expand their skills, constantly exploring new technologies, methodologies, and best practices. They don't just rely on formal training or wait for opportunities - they take the initiative to learn on their own through self-study, research, and experimentation.
3. Big Picture Thinking
10x engineers don’t code in a vacuum. They constantly consider the broader context:
- How will this feature impact user experience?
- Does it align with the product roadmap?
- What are the business implications?
They think beyond what their code does, focusing on how it’s built.
Is it scalable? Maintainable? Will it integrate seamlessly with the system?
In many ways, they think like product managers, always weighing the ripple effects of their technical decisions.
Shivam Mathur, a Freelance Software Engineer, shared:
These engineers know that they’re rarely building for themselves. They have an in-depth understanding of their users' problems, are patient, and have the ability to empathize with the user. They ask questions, figure out the key pain points, and then devise a solution. They start with understanding the problem, not the solution.
4. Excellent Communication
Being a 10x engineer isn’t just about coding skills—it’s also about communication. These engineers excel at breaking down complex technical issues for both technical and non-technical audiences.
They tailor their message based on who they’re speaking to, ensuring everyone has the information they need. They write clear documentation, send concise updates, and know when a quick chat is better than a long email chain.
Most importantly, they understand that communication is about timing. Sharing the right information at the right moment keeps projects on track.
Zara Ahmed, Senior Software Engineer at Amazon, shared:
I’ve noticed whenever I'm in a meeting with a principal engineer, senior principal, or distinguished engineer, you can really how incredibly they communicate and present their views or suggestions. It's so crisp and it changes based on who they're talking to.
5. Team Multipliers
Perhaps the defining trait of a 10x engineer is their ability to elevate the entire team. While they might not write ten times more code, their impact on productivity is undeniable.
They bring enthusiasm to projects, keeping everyone motivated. They mentor junior developers, sharing knowledge generously. Despite their exceptional skills, they remain humble and approachable.
10x engineers know when to challenge teammates with tough tasks and when to provide support. This balance makes them invaluable team players who amplify the strengths of those around them.
Shivam Mathur, a Freelance Software Engineer, shared:
The mindset they carry is no one is above or below them in tech. Everyone's experience is different, and insights can come from anyone, regardless of their seniority.
Moving Beyond the Hype
The "10x engineer" concept may be controversial, but the traits that define exceptional engineers are undeniably valuable.
By focusing on these qualities, we can demystify the label and emphasize what truly matters: skills, attitudes, and behaviors that drive outsized impact.
Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or just starting your career, these traits offer a roadmap for growth. Take ownership. Stay curious. Think big. Communicate clearly. Lift up your team.