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How to Become a Release Train Engineer in 2025?

How to Become a Release Train Engineer in 2025?

Q: 1. Is it essential to have a Scrum Master background to become an RTE?

While having a background as a Scrum Master can be beneficial for someone aspiring to become a Release Train Engineer (RTE), it is not necessarily essential. Many RTEs come from various roles within Agile teams, including Scrum Masters, Product Owners, Project Managers, and others.

Q: 2. How long does it typically take to transition from a Scrum Master to an RTE?

Generally, it may take several years of working in Agile environments, gaining experience in leadership roles, and obtaining relevant certifications to prepare for an RTE role.

Q: 3. Is RTE certification mandatory to get a job as an RTE?

RTE certification, specifically the SAFe Release Train Engineer (RTE) certification, is highly valuable and preferred by many organizations even though it may not be mandatory.

Q: 4. What's the next career step after becoming an RTE?

After becoming an RTE, individuals can explore several career paths based on their interests and aspirations. Some potential career steps include Chief Scrum Master (CSM), Agile Coach, SAFe Program Consultant (SPC) and Organizational Change Consultant.

By Lindy Quick

Updated on Jan 30, 2025 | 12 min read | 4.2k views

Table of Contents

Have you ever wondered how successful IT companies are able to produce so much so quickly? There is no question that it has nothing to do with luck. The formula is straightforward: They divide large projects into manageable pieces and look for fresh, creative approaches to ongoing improvement. However, you must first strengthen your organizational structure before you can achieve it. And here is where Release Train Engineers (RTEs) are useful. To guarantee that the business can deliver and constantly improve, they assist in facilitating the Agile Release Train (ART) events and processes and manage risks. By the end of this article, you will have a thorough knowledge of how to become a release train engineer and how this position may benefit your company as a whole. RTE course will help to facilitate PI planning and foster continuous exploration.

Who Is a Release Train Engineer and What Do They Do?

A Release Train Engineer (RTE) is an agile coach and servant leader who is in charge of the agile release train (ART) which is a group of multiple agile teams typically of 70 to 125 people. RTEs collaborate with a number of agile teams and ensure these teams operate efficiently and adhere to SAFe procedures. Their objectives include streamlining program execution, removing roadblocks in workflows, and managing risks and team dependencies. The RTEs advance the agile release train by assisting teams in completing their tasks and enhancing the efficacy of the procedure. The RTE is the scrum master of the scrum masters, also known as the super scrum master, and is placed above these scrum masters.

Insider Tips to Land Your Dream Scrum Master Job

Includes Scrum Resume Sample

How to Become a Release Train Engineer in Simple Steps?

Beginning the journey towards becoming a Release Train Engineer (RTE) is a significant step in Agile development. In the upcoming steps, I will provide clear and professional guidance to help you achieve proficiency in this role.

Step 1: Master Skills

The first step on how to become a SAFe release train engineer is to master the technical and soft skills required.

a. Top Skills Needed to Become a Release Train Engineer

Let us look at the top skills needed on how to become a agile release train engineer.

Soft Skills:

As a Release Train Engineer, you should:

Be supportive of each team's commitments.
In order to identify issues and facilitate decision-making, it is important to pay attention to and support all teams.
Understand and show empathy for others.
Display an open demeanor and be receptive to others' openness.
Create a space that encourages interdependence.
Encourage and assist in each individual's growth as well as the growth of the team as a whole.
Instead of using authority, coach employees by using challenging questions.
Consider the big picture rather than just your daily tasks; use systems thinking.

Hard Skills:

Deep understanding of the Scaled Agile framework (SAFe) and the Lean and Agile frameworks.
An understanding of the budget of the business and how budgeting functions in a SAFe setting.
Knowledge of which metrics are important and should be monitored, how to interpret these data, and how to change the project's trajectory even if the results indicate significant hazards.
Understanding of project management frameworks and technologies, including Kanban and Scrum are a must.

Other Competencies:

Additionally, great release train engineers have a strong drive to learn new things constantly, excellent communication, negotiating, and critical thinking abilities, as well as a firm belief in the servant leadership ethos.

b. Top Release Train Engineer Certifications / Degree

In the pursuit of a career as a Release Train Engineer (RTE), it's crucial to identify the top certifications and degrees that can enhance your expertise and open doors to rewarding opportunities. I’ve listed some of them below:

1. SAFe Release Train Engineer (RTE) Certification: The RTE certification is part of SAFe's certification framework and is intended to validate the skills and knowledge necessary for success in this role. The SAFe Release Train Engineer certification offers the skills and expertise required to successfully manage a team in the SAFe environment. As a servant leader and coach, you will apply your knowledge to help firms implement programs and create high-performing ARTs.

2. SAFe Scrum Master Certification: The SAFe Scrum Master Certification (SSM) certification is one of the most well-known and well-respected credentials in the world of agile and Scrum project management. The SSM certification is intended for people who desire to become proficient Scrum Masters by developing a deeper understanding of Scrum's concepts and practices in a SAFe organization.

3. SAFe Agilist Certification: SAFe® 5 Agilist (SA) is a SAFe enterprise leadership professional certification. Application of Lean-Agile principles, execution and delivery of value via Agile delivery Trains (ARTs), and creation of an Agile portfolio with Lean-Agile budgeting are key areas of skill.

Step 2: Determine Your Ideal Timeline

The timeline to become a release train engineer can vary widely depending on your starting point, existing experience, and how quickly you can gain the required competencies.

a. Start Learning in a Format That Suits You

Learning the skills required to become a SAFe RTE involves a combination of technical knowledge, agile expertise, and soft skills.

Look for online courses and training related to Agile, Scrum, SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework), and Release Train Engineering.
SAFe provides various training workshops, including SAFe Scrum Master, SAFe Advanced Scrum Master, and SAFe Release Train Engineer.
Join online Agile communities and forums, such as SAFe Community Platform or Agile-focused subreddits. Also, to gain proficiency in the Agile principles and methodology it is ideal to enroll in Agile certification training programs.

b. How Long Does It Take to Become a Release Train Engineer?

The time it takes to become a Release Train Engineer (RTE) can vary widely depending on several factors.

If you have experience in roles like Scrum Master, Agile Coach, or Product Owner, you may have a head start become an RTE.
To become an RTE, you typically need to acquire relevant certifications such as the SAFe Scrum Master (SSM) certification or SAFe Advanced Scrum Master (SASM) certification first.
The SAFe RTE certification often requires you to attend a specific SAFe RTE course. The SAFe RTE certification exam is usually a multiple-choice exam that assesses your knowledge of SAFe principles and their application to the RTE role. The time it takes to prepare for and pass the exam varies from a few weeks to several months.

Step 3: Begin Building Your Portfolio / Resume

Building your resume is one of the crucial steps in job hunting. It is very important to understand the job description to match it with your skill set and work experience. Always highlight your strong skills and competencies in your resume.

List both hard and soft skills relevant to the job or industry you are targeting. Provide evidence of how you have used these skills.
If you're building a portfolio, include samples of your work that demonstrate your skills and expertise. Describe each project or piece briefly and provide context.
Include any relevant certifications, courses, or workshops you've completed. Mention the issuing organization, date of completion, and any notable details.

Portfolio Example or Resume Template for Download

Check this Template of Digital Project Manager for your reference.

Step 4: Where and How to Find a Job?

There are various ways you can find a job. Let us look at each option in detail:

Utilize popular job search websites and job boards such as Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Monster, and CareerBuilder. These platforms allow you to search for job openings, upload your resume, and receive job alerts.
Many companies post job openings on their own websites under the "Careers" or "Jobs" section. If you have specific companies in mind, check their websites regularly for job listings.
Leverage your professional network to discover job opportunities. Inform friends, family members, former colleagues, and mentors that you are job hunting. To grow your network, it is ideal to attend networking functions, conferences, and industry gatherings.
Create or update your LinkedIn profile to highlight your skills, experience, and career goals. Connect with professionals in your field, follow companies, and join industry groups. LinkedIn also has a job search feature.

a. Top Companies Hiring Release Train Engineer

PwC, KPMG, EY, Accenture, Capgemini are a few of the top companies hiring release train engineers.

b. Job Outlook for Release Train Engineer

Release Train Engineers are in high demand right now, and that demand is only anticipated to increase in the future. The demand for knowledgeable and experienced RTEs will increase as more businesses use the Agile development paradigm. The RTE profession is a desirable career choice because of the strong demand and alluring compensation.

Release Train Engineers have bright career opportunities as well. With time and experience, they can advance to higher executive positions or turn into consultants that offer their knowledge to various businesses. In order to further improve their employment prospects, they can choose to specialize in particular fields, such as SAFe.

Step 5: Ace the Interview

The interview process involves multiple rounds of interviews with senior management. They gauge your knowledge and experience in release train management and agile practices.

Brief overview of the interview process + Tips

The interview process for a Release Train Engineer (RTE), a key role in the context of Agile and SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework) methodologies, typically involves assessing a candidate's skills and experience in managing and facilitating the delivery of large-scale software projects.

Tips:

Before the interview, take some time to research the company and the position you are interviewing for.
The interviewer will likely ask you questions about your skills and experience in release train management. It is advisable to answer these questions in a clear and concise way.
When answering questions, be sure to highlight your accomplishments in agile project management.
Confidence is key in any interview. When you are confident, you will project a positive image and make a good impression on the interviewer.
If you have any final questions regarding the business and your role, it is always advisable to ask the interviewer.

Who can Become a Release Train Engineer?

A combination of education, training, experience, and qualifications are normally required to become a release train engineer. Here are some of the key factors to become a release train engineer:

A Bachelor's or master's degree in a related field such as computer science, engineering, or business can be advantageous.
SAFe Release Train Engineer (RTE) certification is often a requirement and strongly preferred since it demonstrates your expertise in this role.
Extensive experience working in Agile environments is essential. This includes understanding Agile principles, practices, and methodologies, such as Scrum and Kanban.
A deep understanding of the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) is crucial. This includes knowledge of SAFe roles, ceremonies, artifacts, and principles.

Release Train Engineer Requirements

The requirements for a Release Train Engineer (RTE) can vary depending on the organization and industry. However, here are the typical qualifications and requirements for this role:

SAFe Certification: You should have the SAFe Release Train Engineer (RTE) certification, which demonstrates your expertise in facilitating and coaching Agile Release Trains. You can enroll in certification courses such as KnowledgeHut RTE course.
Agile Expertise: Extensive experience working in Agile environments is essential. This includes a deep understanding of Agile methodologies such as Scrum, Kanban, Lean, and SAFe.
Strong Leadership: RTEs are responsible for leading and facilitating Agile Release Trains, so strong leadership skills are a must. You should be able to facilitate discussions, resolve conflicts, and keep meetings productive.
Excellent Communication: As an RTE you interact with various stakeholders, including development teams, product owners, Scrum Masters, and senior leadership. Having excellent communication skills will always be a plus point.
Problem Solving: As an RTE, you'll encounter complex challenges related to dependencies, scope changes, and resource allocation. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities are highly valued.

Why / Benefits?

To transition organizations into Agile environments, RTEs are essential. Large-scale undertakings and initiatives benefit greatly from their major contribution to their successful completion. They are pioneers in putting Agile techniques and principles into action at a large scale, assisting firms in becoming more responsive and adaptable. They support making sure Agile Release Trains (ARTs) provide consumers with high-quality value on schedule. Being an RTE gives you the chance to lead and sway groups of stakeholders at several organizational levels. The knowledge and exposure to top management that come with this position are invaluable.

What’s the Demand for Release Train Engineers?

In the field of Agile software development, the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) has become a prevalent and successful methodology for implementing Agile methods throughout big businesses. The demand for qualified Release Train Engineers who can enable the successful implementation of SAFe framework has increased as more businesses adopt the SAFe strategy to enhance their software delivery and align their teams.

RTEs require a unique skill set that combines Agile expertise, leadership, facilitation, and problem-solving abilities. Finding individuals with these qualifications can be challenging, contributing to the demand for experienced RTEs. Beyond the software industry, RTE will become more in demand in a variety of sectors, including manufacturing, retail, defense, financial technology, and cybersecurity.

Salary Details for Top 5 Countries

Country	Average Base Salary	Range
USA	$156,000 per year	$126,000 to $194,000 per year
India	₹2,500,000 per year	₹2,100,000 to ₹3,600,000
Germany	€69,776 per year	€65,000 to €70,000 per year
UK	£78,357 per year	£64,000 to £96,000 per year
Australia	$165,000 per year	$165,000 to $184,000 per year

Conclusion

To conclude, in a SAFe organization, the release train engineer plays a crucial role in leading and assisting the Agile Release Train to guarantee its smooth operation and alignment with the organization's strategic goals. A release train engineer's responsibility is to make sure the ART team functions smoothly and is free from obstacles. To achieve the greatest value delivery, they oversee every ART event and procedure and implement SAFe concepts.

An RTE can have a substantial impact on an organization's capacity to produce value through Agile software development by mastering the tasks and duties of this role. Take the time to become familiar with Agile principles, the SAFe framework, and the numerous skills necessary for success in this profession if you're thinking about a career as a release train engineer. Build a solid basis for a fulfilling career as an RTE by pursuing necessary certifications, gaining experience in Agile environments, and networking with other experts.