Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Data Engineer at Facebook, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
After a recruiter screening call, I moved straight into a technical conversation that felt noticeably tougher than the prep materials. The questions weren’t only hard because of the coding or SQL itself; what threw me off was decoding what the interviewer actually wanted. I remember getting a scenario described like a bookstore checkout system, but the explanation was vague enough that I had to keep guessing the intended behavior, and the interviewer didn’t really help me clarify it as I went.
The process started with a recruiter screen and then moved into a technical assessment where I had to code in both Python and SQL. The format felt pretty LeetCode-style: I worked through multiple questions, and the expectation was that I could interpret the prompts and get to correct, working logic quickly. After that initial technical step, I went into the full loop with several rounds that mixed coding and deeper evaluation—system design for data pipelining came up, plus a behavioral round, and then additional SQL/Python coding interviews.
The interview process typically starts with a recruiter screening followed by a technical assessment, leading into multiple rounds that include coding, system design, and behavioral evaluations. Candidates noted that the timeline can vary, with some experiencing long waits between stages.
Candidates faced a rigorous technical assessment that included SQL and Python coding questions, often in a timed format that emphasized speed and accuracy. The questions were designed to test not just knowledge but also the ability to interpret prompts and reason under pressure.
Several interviews included rounds focused on system design and data modeling, where candidates were expected to articulate their thought process and justify their design choices. This aspect required a deep understanding of data architecture and the ability to map out solutions effectively.
Behavioral interviews were a consistent part of the process, assessing candidates' problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills through situational prompts. Candidates reported that these rounds were designed to evaluate how they handle challenges and communicate under stress.
Candidates described the overall interview experience as intense and demanding, with a high bar for performance that often felt relentless. Many noted that the pressure to perform quickly and accurately was a significant factor in their experience.
Some candidates appreciated the clear communication and resources provided for preparation, which helped them feel more equipped for the interviews. However, others felt that the fast-paced nature of the technical rounds left little room for trial-and-error or reflection.