How can we help you?
How does nearshore work? How fast can we start? How are engineers vetted? Get clear answers to the most common questions about working with Cafeto.
What exactly is nearshore software development?
Nearshore software development is the practice of partnering with technology teams in geographically close, time-zone-aligned countries. For US companies, this typically means working with engineers in Colombia, Mexico, or other Latin American countries. Unlike offshore outsourcing (India, Eastern Europe), nearshore eliminates the time zone gap and cultural friction that make collaboration difficult.
How quickly can we get started?
From first conversation to active engineer on your team typically takes 2–3 weeks. This includes intake (defining your profile), candidate shortlisting (5 business days), your interview process, contract execution, and onboarding. For urgent needs, we have compressed this timeline to 10 business days.
What is the minimum team size or engagement length?
There is no minimum team size — a single engineer is a valid engagement. The typical minimum engagement length is 3 months, though most successful partnerships extend to 6–12+ months. We are not optimized for one-month contracts; our model is built around long-term collaboration.
How do you vet your engineers?
Every candidate goes through: (1) a technical screening conducted by a senior engineer in their specific discipline, (2) an English communication assessment, (3) a professional maturity and culture fit evaluation, and (4) reference checks for senior profiles. You only meet candidates who have passed all four stages.
What seniority levels do you place?
Mid-level and senior engineers are the most common profiles we place. Junior profiles are available in some disciplines and in team contexts where they are supported by senior leads. We do not present junior engineers for critical, unsupported roles.
Do your engineers speak English fluently?
Yes. English communication is a core requirement for all client-facing roles. Our engineers communicate in written and spoken English with US clients daily. Proficiency level is assessed during the vetting process and you will evaluate it directly during the interview.
What technologies do your engineers cover?
25+ technologies across frontend, backend, mobile, cloud, data, QA, and DevOps. Common profiles include React, Angular, Vue, Node.js, Python, Java, .NET, Flutter, React Native, AWS, GCP, Azure, Terraform, Docker, Kubernetes, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, and more. Specialty profiles (AI/ML, blockchain, SAP, Salesforce) are available with longer sourcing timelines.
What time zone do your engineers work in?
Colombia engineers work in EST/CST (Colombia is UTC-5 year-round). Mexico engineers work in CST or PST depending on location. Both provide full overlap with US business hours — your engineer joins your standups live, responds to Slack in real time, and participates in sprint reviews without scheduling gymnastics.
Do engineers use our tools and processes, or your own?
Yours. Our engineers integrate into your workflow — your project management tools (Jira, Linear, Asana), your communication tools (Slack, Teams), your code repository (GitHub, GitLab), and your sprint ceremonies. We adapt to how you work, not the other way around.
What happens if an engineer isn't working out?
Raise it with us immediately. We address performance issues directly — coaching, additional support, or if necessary, a fast and cost-free replacement. Our goal is that you never need to exercise this, but the guarantee is there.
Who owns the intellectual property created during an engagement?
You do. All code, designs, data, and other intellectual property produced during the engagement belong to the client. This is contractually guaranteed. Engineers sign NDAs and IP assignment agreements before beginning any work.
Who handles payroll, employment, and compliance for the engineers?
Cafeto is the employer of record for all our engineers. We handle employment contracts, local labor compliance (Colombia and Mexico), payroll, benefits, and all HR operations. You receive a simple monthly invoice. There are no hidden costs related to employment overhead.
How does pricing work?
Engagements are typically structured on a monthly retainer per engineer or team. Rates depend on the profile, seniority level, and engagement model. We are transparent about pricing during the initial conversation — no surprises after you've invested time in the process.
What is the difference between staff augmentation, managed services, and BOT?
Staff Augmentation: you manage the engineer directly; Cafeto handles employment and sourcing. Managed Services (Custom Development / Support): Cafeto manages the team and owns the delivery or operational outcome. BOT (Build-Operate-Transfer): Cafeto builds and operates an engineering center on your behalf, with an option to transfer full control to you over time. Each model has a different cost structure and level of Cafeto involvement.
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