Scrum Master II

Agile Coach

This position is a member of an Agile team and is responsible for enabling the team to be more effective applying the relevant Lean-Agile approach (Scrum, Kanban, XP, etc.) and cultivates an environment that supports Agility. Understands how to evolve/improve/expand team practices to fit the specific needs of the teams and organization. Coaches, mentors and teaches team members, managers and key stakeholders; proactively seeks to eliminate or minimize impact of barriers, and addresses challenges to team delivery. Able to identify and effectively apply which stance (coach, mentor, teach) would benefit the team the most depending upon the situation/circumstances present. Works closely with Product Owners and other SM`s to support release planning, backlog and team health, and cross-team communication. Fosters team decision-making, transparency and independence, encourages cross-training and team support.

Uses a pragmatic approach to guide the team by seeking to understand what they want to achieve and helping them become more effective in an Agile context. Comfortable experimenting with a variety of approaches based on need & fit. Promotes the use of/experimentation with quality/engineering practices (BDD, TDD, Pairing, CI/CD, etc.). Effective facilitation skills at the team level; remains neutral, applies conflict management & establishes trust. Is comfortable having difficult conversations and actively coaches others on improving facilitation skills. Possesses advanced understanding of Lean-Agile metrics (health, value, flow and quality) to help teams continually improve. Assesses the Agile/Scrum maturity of the team & coaches the team to higher levels of maturity. Coaches team & managers on the Agile mindset/behavior. Deep understanding of the mechanics of the Agile framework or method and the ability to teach the specific roles, work products, and activities to team members and stakeholders. Increases team knowledge of Agile/Lean topics helping them understand "why" practices work not just "how". Observes & provides consistent, impactful feedback for team Agile development. Understands the impact and supports the vision for change within their organization. Develops a network of change agents to promote change and manage resistance to change. Mentors less experienced Scrum Masters and other Lean-Agile leaders. Actively seeks coaching & mentoring from more experienced SMs & coaches on Lean-Agile techniques and mindset and guides them on their personal change and growth journey. Takes an active role in the transition to & implementation of a scaling framework, with guidance from more experienced SMs and Agile Coaches. Stays current with Agility industry trends & explores other perspectives by reading & contributing to blogs, consuming external media, & actively participating in internal/external Scrum/Agile events. Acts as a catalyst to the SM community & in the organization by sharing ideas.