Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at PerkinElmer, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
After I applied online, I first had an HR screening call where they walked me through the role and talked about my background. Roughly in the same early stage, I then met the hiring manager for the first real round, which felt structured and pretty specific about what I could contribute. The questions centered on how I fit the team and what I’d bring to the work.
My process started with an HR call, then I had a tech-focused conversation where the interviewer asked about a different skill set than I expected, along with discussion of professional projects. A few days later I was brought in for a more in-depth set of conversations with the team, and that included a brief visit to the premises.
The interview process typically begins with an HR screening call, followed by a technical interview, and then a team-focused discussion, often culminating in an onsite interview. This structured sequence helps candidates understand their fit from multiple angles.
Candidates can expect a mix of coding challenges and technical discussions, often centered on their past projects and experiences rather than abstract puzzles. The technical assessment may include a coding problem during the phone interview and a deeper dive during onsite discussions.
Interviews often include behavioral questions aimed at assessing cultural fit and collaboration style, with a focus on how candidates can contribute to the team. The STAR method is commonly used to structure responses.
Candidates noted that communication throughout the process was generally clear, with timely updates on next steps, although some experienced delays or lack of closure after the final stages. It's important to remain proactive in seeking updates.
The interview process is described as smooth and efficient, with a focus on maintaining momentum without excessive waiting periods. This pacing can help candidates stay engaged and focused on each stage.
Candidates may encounter additional steps such as a drug test after the technical discussions, and while some received offers, others faced rejections, highlighting the competitive nature of the selection process.
