Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Illinois Tool Works, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
HR reached out to schedule a Zoom call with herself and a director. The call was short, and the director mostly used it to see whether I was a fit for the role and whether the role matched what I was looking for. After that, they set up a plant tour and then another interview with their chief chemist.
I ended up in a short Microsoft Teams meeting that lasted about 30 minutes. It focused on the Standard Products team—what the responsibilities would be, how it related to what I had on my resume, and a few clarifying questions.
The interview process typically begins with a short HR call followed by a technical interview, often culminating in an onsite or panel interview. Candidates have reported varying timelines, with some experiencing quick transitions while others faced delays and cancellations.
Candidates can expect technical interviews to cover a range of topics, including programming languages like C++, data structures, and algorithm concepts, as well as practical assessments such as CAD tasks. The technical depth varies, with some interviews focusing more on project experience than deep technical knowledge.
Behavioral questions are commonly integrated into interviews, often relating to past experiences and how candidates approach problem-solving. Candidates are encouraged to use structured responses, such as the STAR method, to effectively communicate their experiences.
Candidates have reported inconsistent communication from HR and recruiters, with some experiencing delays in feedback or feeling 'ghosted' after interviews. It's advisable to follow up proactively to maintain clarity on the process.
Some candidates encountered panel interviews with multiple interviewers, which can be fast-paced and demanding. The need to keep answers concise while addressing various evaluators adds to the challenge of these formats.
While some candidates found the interview process manageable and straightforward, others expressed frustration over the lack of professionalism and clarity, particularly regarding follow-up and decision timelines. Candidates should be prepared for a range of experiences.