Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Motional, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
My process started with an HR call where the recruiter walked me through the role and responsibilities. We talked about my background and what genuinely interested me about the company, and it felt pretty relaxed and straightforward. The recruiter also made it clear that they’d check with the hiring manager after our conversation and that I’d hear back in about 1–2 weeks.
After an HR screen, I had a short technical journey that mostly revolved around coding. The process was only two rounds long: a screening call followed by a LeetCode-style coding interview.
The interview process typically begins with a recruiter call that covers the role, company culture, and candidate background in a relaxed manner. This initial stage is crucial for setting expectations and determining fit before moving on to technical evaluations.
Candidates can expect one or more coding interviews focused on LeetCode-style problems, often at an easy to medium difficulty level. These rounds assess problem-solving skills and the ability to articulate thought processes during coding.
A system design interview is commonly included, where candidates may be asked to design systems relevant to the role, such as databases or security systems. This round can vary in focus and may not always align with the specific job title, which can lead to confusion.
Candidates typically have a direct conversation with the hiring manager, focusing on their resume and past experiences. This round is often seen as a deeper dive into the candidate's fit for the team and can significantly influence the outcome.
The interview process is generally structured with multiple rounds, often spanning several weeks, which can lead to a prolonged timeline. Candidates noted that the waiting period between interviews can be challenging and may impact their overall experience.
Feedback and communication post-interview can vary, with some candidates experiencing delays or a lack of follow-up from HR. Clear communication is essential for a positive candidate experience, and delays can leave candidates feeling uncertain.