The path to becoming a 10x engineer
Top software engineers share how to transition from an average engineer to a 10x engineer.
Executive Summary
Becoming a top software engineer used to be simple. Master one language, ship features, repeat.
But today, the path is unclear—and the competition is tougher than ever.
Still, some engineers stand out.
They're known as 10x engineers, thriving at companies like Google, Amazon, and fast-growing startups. We spoke to 21 of them to understand what sets them apart.
This report breaks down how they built standout skills, made smart career moves, and developed the habits that give them an edge.
By the end, you'll have a clear roadmap to becoming a 10x engineer yourself.
.webp)
10x engineers take extreme ownership of their work. They ensure tasks are done on time, admit and fix mistakes, and help teammates when needed.
Ownership Extreme Responsibility
10x engineers take extreme ownership of their work. They ensure tasks are done on time, admit and fix mistakes, and help teammates when needed.
.webp)
Curiosity Deep Exploration
Deep curiosity sets 10x engineers apart. They itch to understand how things work, leading to better pattern recognition and smarter technical decisions.
.webp)
Thinking Bigger Picture
10x engineers understand the bigger picture. They view code through the lens of the business, considering user experience, product roadmap, and the company's bottom line.
.webp)
Clarity Effective Communication
10x engineers are excellent communicators. They tailor their message to the audience, provide clarity, and know when to use the right communication channels.
.webp)
Impact Team Boost
10x engineers boost their team's productivity. They bring enthusiasm to projects, mentor junior engineers, and have a sharp sense of balance in challenging and supporting others.
Chapter 1 : Who is a 10x engineer
Chapter 2 : Traits of a 10x engineer
They take extreme ownership of their work
They are deeply curious
They understand the bigger picture
They are excellent communicators
1 more topics
Chapter 3 : How to become a 10x engineer
Chapter 4 : Upskilling to be a 10x engineer
Get comfortable with uncertainty
Learn how to find high-impact problems
Become great communicator
Chapter 5 : Networking to be a 10x engineer
Chapter 6 : Choosing the right jobs to be a 10x engineer
Chapter 7 : Put 10x effort
Your dream tech job is waiting.
Our 7+ years of expertise ensure you're matched with the right company and role. We're more than just a job board – we're your career partner.
“Flexiple has exceeded our expectations with their focus on customer satisfaction! The freelancers are brilliant at what they do and have made an immense impact. Highly recommended :)”
Henning Grimm
Founder, Aquaplot
“Overall Flexiple brought in high-level of transparency with extremely quick turnarounds in the hiring process at a significantly lower cost than any alternate options we had considered.”
Kislay Shashwat
VP Finance, CREO
“Todd and I are impressed with the candidates you've gathered. Thank you for your work so far. Thanks for sticking within our budget and helping us to find strong talent. Have loved Flexiple so far — highly entrepreneurial and autonomous talent.”
William Ross
Co-Founder, Reckit
“The cooperation with Christos was excellent. I can only give positive feedback about him. Besides his general coding, the way of writing tests and preparing documentation has enriched our team very much. It is a great added value in every team.”
Moritz Gruber
CTO, Caisy.io
“Flexiple spent a good amount of time understanding our requirements, resulting in accurate recommendations and quick ramp up by developers. We also found them to be much more affordable than other alternatives for the same level of quality.”
Narayan Vyas
Director PM, Plivo Inc
“It's been great working with Flexiple for hiring talented, hardworking folks. We needed a suitable back-end developer and got to know Ankur through Flexiple. We are very happy with his commitment and skills and will be working with Flexiple going forward as well.”
Neil Shah
Chief of Staff, Prodigal Tech
“Flexiple has been instrumental in helping us grow fast. Their vetting process is top notch and they were able to connect us with quality talent quickly. The team put great emphasis on matching us with folks who were a great fit not only technically but also culturally.”
Tanu V
Founder, Power Router
“Flexiple has exceeded our expectations with their focus on customer satisfaction! The freelancers are brilliant at what they do and have made an immense impact. Highly recommended :)”
Henning Grimm
Founder, Aquaplot
“Overall Flexiple brought in high-level of transparency with extremely quick turnarounds in the hiring process at a significantly lower cost than any alternate options we had considered.”
Kislay Shashwat
VP Finance, CREO
“Todd and I are impressed with the candidates you've gathered. Thank you for your work so far. Thanks for sticking within our budget and helping us to find strong talent. Have loved Flexiple so far — highly entrepreneurial and autonomous talent.”
William Ross
Co-Founder, Reckit
“The cooperation with Christos was excellent. I can only give positive feedback about him. Besides his general coding, the way of writing tests and preparing documentation has enriched our team very much. It is a great added value in every team.”
Moritz Gruber
CTO, Caisy.io
“Flexiple spent a good amount of time understanding our requirements, resulting in accurate recommendations and quick ramp up by developers. We also found them to be much more affordable than other alternatives for the same level of quality.”
Narayan Vyas
Director PM, Plivo Inc
“It's been great working with Flexiple for hiring talented, hardworking folks. We needed a suitable back-end developer and got to know Ankur through Flexiple. We are very happy with his commitment and skills and will be working with Flexiple going forward as well.”
Neil Shah
Chief of Staff, Prodigal Tech
“Flexiple has been instrumental in helping us grow fast. Their vetting process is top notch and they were able to connect us with quality talent quickly. The team put great emphasis on matching us with folks who were a great fit not only technically but also culturally.”
Tanu V
Founder, Power Router
Explore our network of top tech talent. Find the perfect match for your dream team.