[Verse 1] Started as a junior, writing simple code Senior engineer now, carrying the load But there's a path beyond that many don't see Individual contributor, what could you be? Staff engineer level, that's where you grow Technical leadership, letting expertise show [Chorus] Climb the ladder, step by step Staff plus paths, don't forget Principal, distinguished too Architecture calling you IC tracks, they lead the way Technical growth every day [Verse 2] Staff engineer first, solving complex things Cross-team collaboration, see what that brings Mentoring others while you code and design Influence without management, that's the fine line Technical decisions that span the whole org Building the foundation, you're the tech forge [Chorus] Climb the ladder, step by step Staff plus paths, don't forget Principal, distinguished too Architecture calling you IC tracks, they lead the way Technical growth every day [Bridge] Principal comes next, company-wide scope Setting technical vision, giving teams hope Distinguished engineer, industry expert now Defining the future, you show them how Architecture roles, systems you create Technical strategy, guiding company fate [Verse 3] Career ladders need structure, levels defined Compensation matching, keeping it aligned Skills and expectations, crystal clear Growth opportunities throughout the year Not everyone manages, that's perfectly fine Technical leadership, your skills can shine [Chorus] Climb the ladder, step by step Staff plus paths, don't forget Principal, distinguished too Architecture calling you IC tracks, they lead the way Technical growth every day [Outro] From staff to principal, distinguished and beyond Individual contributors, of whom we're fond Create the career paths, make the ladder strong Technical excellence, where you belong
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