Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at National Oilwell Varco, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
I went through a fairly condensed path that still felt split into clear segments. It started with an HR conversation where we covered behavioral topics and some basic questions anchored to my CV. Then I had a more technical-focused discussion with a project manager that leaned into role-relevant subject matter—specifically around welding—and it also touched on practical tooling like AutoCAD. The last part included a Projects Commercial Manager who asked random questions drawn from my background.
After a recruiter reach-out, I ended up with an initial phone screening with the hiring manager where we mostly walked through my resume and how it matched the role. A short time after that, I had a deeper group conversation where the tone was conversational but focused on getting a real sense of how I’d worked before. They asked about my work history, pressed me on critical thinking, and also included some technical questions tied to the specific job.
The interview process typically spans several weeks to a couple of months, starting with a recruiter conversation followed by multiple rounds of interviews that include behavioral and technical discussions. Candidates often experience clear communication about the process and who they will meet.
Many candidates report that the interviews focus heavily on behavioral questions and assessing cultural fit, with interviewers interested in personal experiences and how candidates align with the company's values. This aspect is often emphasized over technical depth.
Technical interviews vary in depth, with some candidates facing coding assessments or specific technical questions related to the role, such as C# and SQL, while others experience less technical scrutiny. Practicing coding-style questions is recommended for those facing technical rounds.
The overall atmosphere during interviews is generally described as friendly and professional, with interviewers aiming to create a relaxed environment. Candidates often feel that they are treated respectfully and given space to ask questions.
While many candidates appreciate the initial communication and structure, some report issues with follow-up and closure after interviews, experiencing delays or a lack of response that can lead to frustration. Clear communication throughout the process is a recurring theme.
Candidates often wish they had prepared more for specific technical assessments or written tests that were not clearly communicated beforehand. Understanding the expectations for each round can help candidates feel more prepared and confident.