Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at A.O. Smith, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
I came in through a referral and it started with a quick Zoom conversation that included a manager and a developer. The whole call was short—about 30 minutes—but it moved quickly into technical depth. The questions leaned heavily on Java and Hibernate, and it felt like they were checking whether I could reason through those areas rather than recite buzzwords.
After a recruiter screening, I had a technical coding round through Karat that lasted about an hour. It felt like a straightforward assessment where the focus was on getting to working solutions under time pressure. Later, I moved to a second conversation with the hiring manager. I followed up afterward trying to get closure or feedback, but I didn’t hear back, and the status I could see moved to something like “business review.”
The interview process typically begins with a quick screening call, often via Zoom, where candidates are assessed on their technical knowledge, particularly in Java and related technologies. Expect questions that require reasoning and practical understanding rather than just theoretical knowledge.
Candidates undergo a technical coding round through the Karat platform, focusing on problem-solving under time constraints. This round assesses both coding skills and the ability to work through solutions in a structured manner.
Following initial assessments, candidates participate in multiple technical interviews that delve into systems-level topics, backend technologies, and practical coding scenarios. Expect discussions on Java, SQL, microservices, and possibly whiteboard coding exercises.
Many candidates report significant delays and lack of communication after interviews, leading to frustration. It is common to experience long waits for feedback or updates, which can leave candidates feeling uncertain about their status.
Even after successful interviews, candidates have experienced offers being withdrawn due to budget constraints or visa sponsorship issues. This can be disheartening, especially after committing to an offer.
Candidates are encouraged to prepare thoughtful questions for interviewers, as the process often involves interactive discussions rather than one-sided Q&A. Engaging actively can enhance the interview experience.