Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for UX/UI Designer at Palantir technologies, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
I was still in the process when I completed a 2-hour take-home style interaction design challenge with detailed instructions. Once I finished and submitted, the next step was a 45-minute portfolio review built around design fit—more than just walking through visuals, it leaned into the deeper reasons behind my decisions, my values in how I approach problems, and how I think in terms of systems.
I applied and, about two weeks later, I was asked to set aside a couple of hours for an online design assessment on HackerRank. It wasn’t coding, but it was still structured like a timed whiteboard: I had a long prompt to work through and I focused on wireframing and showing my design thinking clearly within the limit. After I submitted, the next step was a recruiter call, and then I moved into a portfolio review where I presented one or two case studies.
Candidates typically start with a timed design challenge, often on HackerRank, where they are required to demonstrate their design thinking and problem-solving skills through wireframing and written reflections. This round is crucial for showcasing their ability to work under time constraints.
The portfolio review is a key part of the interview process, where candidates present their work and discuss the rationale behind their design decisions. Interviewers focus on understanding the candidate's thought process and collaboration skills rather than just the final visuals.
The interview process generally follows a structured flow, starting with a design challenge, followed by a recruiter call, and then moving into portfolio presentations and whiteboarding sessions. Candidates appreciate the clarity of each stage, although some report logistical issues.
Candidates often face multiple back-to-back whiteboarding interviews that test their ability to think on their feet and communicate design ideas clearly under pressure. These rounds are typically challenging and require candidates to articulate their reasoning effectively.
The recruiter experience can vary significantly, with some candidates reporting rudeness or disorganization during initial calls, which negatively impacts their overall impression of the company. A respectful and organized recruiter interaction is crucial for setting the tone of the process.
Candidates generally find the interview process to be rigorous and demanding, with a focus on both technical skills and design reasoning. Many report not receiving offers, but express that the experience helped them understand the company's design philosophy and expectations.