ITM Power Software Engineer interview questions & guide 2026

The following questions reflect the core competencies required to succeed in a technical role at ITM Power. While specific questions will vary based on your level and the specific project team, these categories highlight the patterns you should be prepared to address.

Technical and Domain Knowledge

These questions evaluate your grasp of the software lifecycle, your expertise in relevant programming languages, and your understanding of how software integrates with mechanical or electrical systems.

• Describe a time you had to troubleshoot a complex integration issue between software and hardware.
• How do you ensure your code remains maintainable and scalable in an industrial environment?

Preparation for ITM Power should be systematic. Because the role involves high-stakes industrial applications, interviewers will look for evidence of precision, safety-consciousness, and a methodical approach to engineering.

Technical Competency – This covers your core programming skills and your ability to apply them to industrial automation or control systems. You should be ready to discuss your proficiency in the languages and tools listed in your background, specifically how they handle concurrency, memory management, and hardware interfaces.

Systems Thinking – ITM Power interviewers want to see that you understand the "big picture." You must demonstrate how your code affects the larger system architecture and how you account for physical constraints, sensor data, and safety protocols in your software designs.

Communication and Collaboration – You will often work alongside mechanical and chemical engineers. Your ability to translate technical requirements into shared objectives is a critical evaluation point; be ready to explain how you have successfully navigated cross-functional team dynamics in the past.

The interview process at ITM Power is designed to assess both your technical capabilities and your alignment with the company’s mission. You can expect a rigorous evaluation that moves from initial screenings to deep-dive technical discussions, often involving senior engineers or leads who are deeply embedded in the product development lifecycle.

The pace is steady and deliberate, reflecting the high-reliability nature of the products ITM Power manufactures. You should prepare for an environment that values technical depth, analytical thinking, and a clear, structured communication style. The process is not merely about finding someone who can code; it is about finding someone who can build reliable, safe, and efficient software that functions under real-world conditions.

The visual timeline above illustrates the typical progression from initial screening to final technical assessments. Candidates should use this as a roadmap to pace their preparation, ensuring they have refreshed their core technical concepts before the deeper, problem-solving rounds. Note that the process may be adjusted based on the specific seniority of the role, such as a Principal Engineer position, where the focus will shift more heavily toward system architecture and leadership.

Industrial Software Control

This area focuses on your ability to write software that interacts with the physical world. You are expected to demonstrate knowledge of state machines, real-time constraints, and data integrity.

Be ready to go over:

• Control Logic – Designing robust state machines and feedback loops.
• Data Acquisition – Managing sensor inputs and ensuring accurate, low-latency processing.

As a Software Engineer at ITM Power, you will be responsible for the full lifecycle of software development within the context of hydrogen production systems. You will work closely with Mechanical Design Engineers and Commissioning Engineers to ensure that the software perfectly aligns with the physical capabilities and limitations of the electrolyzers.

Your day-to-day will involve:

• Developing and maintaining control software for Process Packaged Units.
• Performing rigorous testing and verification of code in simulated and real-world environments.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to define software requirements based on mechanical specifications.
• Optimizing system performance and reliability to meet safety and production targets.

A successful candidate for this role possesses a strong foundation in both software engineering and industrial systems.

• Must-have skills: Proficient in relevant programming languages (e.g., C++, Python, or PLC-based languages), experience with industrial automation, strong understanding of control systems, and excellent analytical skills.
• Nice-to-have skills: Prior experience in the energy sector, knowledge of hydrogen technology, familiarity with functional safety standards (e.g., IEC 61508), and experience with cloud-based data monitoring.

Q: How much technical preparation should I undertake? A: You should allocate significant time to review your core technical fundamentals, especially those related to real-time control and system integration, as these are frequently tested.

Q: What differentiates successful candidates? A: Successful candidates don't just provide correct answers; they show a systematic approach to problem-solving and demonstrate a clear understanding of the physical impact their code has on the machinery.

Q: Is this a remote role? A: Given the nature of the work on Process Packaged Units and physical hardware, most roles are based on-site in locations like Linden or Berlin to facilitate close collaboration with the engineering teams.

Q: What is the typical timeline? A: While it varies, candidates should expect a process that spans several weeks, allowing for multiple rounds of technical and behavioral assessment.

• Structure your answers: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to keep your responses focused and impactful.
• Understand the product: Read up on ITM Power and their PEM electrolyzer technology; showing genuine interest in the company’s impact on the energy transition is highly valued.
• Ask informed questions: Prepare questions about the team’s current technical challenges, the development environment, or the interaction between software and hardware groups.
• Be honest about your experience: If you haven't worked with a specific protocol or tool, explain your process for learning new technologies quickly.

The Software Engineer role at ITM Power is a unique opportunity to apply your technical expertise to one of the most important industrial challenges of our time: the scalable production of green hydrogen. By focusing your preparation on systems thinking, industrial control principles, and clear communication, you will be well-positioned to demonstrate your value to the team.

We encourage you to explore additional interview insights, practice questions, and preparation resources on Dataford to refine your strategy. With consistent effort and a clear understanding of the expectations outlined in this guide, you can confidently approach your interview process and showcase your potential to contribute to the future of ITM Power.

The compensation data provided above reflects the typical range for engineering roles within the energy and industrial sector. Candidates should interpret these figures as a baseline that accounts for factors such as years of experience, specialized technical certifications, and the specific level of the position (e.g., Senior vs. Principal). Keep in mind that total compensation packages often include performance-based incentives and benefits that reflect the strategic nature of the role.