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AI-Native IC Ladder

The competency framework for engineers in AI-native organizations

This framework evaluates engineers across 8 dimensions and 6 levels (P1 through P6), from Engineer I to Principal Engineer. It replaces traditional coding-centric ladders with one built for a world where AI handles implementation. Leaders use it to set clear expectations at each level, run calibrated assessments, identify growth gaps, and build development plans that prepare their teams for AI-native delivery.

8 Dimensions

Select a dimension to explore the progression across levels.

Systems Thinking & Architecture

Designing systems at the right level of abstraction, making decisions about boundaries, interfaces, and trade-offs that AI cannot make without human judgment.

P1 — Engineer I

Describes the purpose and behavior of systems they work with at an architectural level, using documentation and observability tools rather than reading source code.

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Want the full framework with all expectations and examples?

The complete assessment tool includes 3 detailed expectations and 3-4 real-world examples per level per dimension — plus guided evaluation, growth plans, and team analytics.

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