Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Nordstrom, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
I started with an online assessment that felt pretty straightforward, and then I got sent a link for a recorded behavioral interview. The behavioral prompts were the usual “tell me about yourself” style questions, delivered through an AI chat format tied to the assessment.
My first real checkpoint was a phone screen, where it felt like a fairly standard screening to confirm fit. After that, I went into a loop that was split across several interviewers with different focuses—an architecture/system design panel, then behavioral rounds, and finally two leetcode-style coding questions.
Candidates typically start with an online assessment that includes basic coding challenges and behavioral questions delivered through a structured format. This is often followed by a recruiter screening to confirm fit before moving on to more in-depth interviews.
The coding portion of interviews includes LeetCode-style problems that test problem-solving skills and may involve complex data structures, such as JSON parsing. Candidates should be prepared for both string manipulation and algorithmic challenges.
Candidates can expect a focus on system design and architecture discussions, which may cover both backend and frontend topics. This round is critical and requires a solid understanding of design principles and practical application.
Behavioral interviews are structured to assess cultural fit and alignment with company values, often using standard prompts. Candidates should prepare to articulate their experiences and motivations clearly.
The interview process is typically structured with multiple rounds scheduled in a single day, often featuring a mix of technical and behavioral assessments. Candidates should be prepared for a fast-paced environment with limited breaks.
While many candidates report a supportive interview environment, some express disappointment with the feedback process, particularly after rejections. It's advisable to seek clarity on performance and next steps post-interview.