Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Relativity Space, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
I started with a recruiter screening, then a couple of technical phone interviews with engineering leadership. Those calls were fairly standard in tone—focused on how I think and what I’ve worked on—before I moved to an in-person stage.
My process was heavy on technical questioning from the start. After an initial phone screen, I did two back-to-back technical phone interviews, and then I went straight into an onsite.
The interview process typically begins with a recruiter screening followed by multiple technical phone interviews, culminating in an onsite interview that includes a presentation and one-on-one discussions. The overall timeline is often tight, with clear communication about the sequence and expectations.
Candidates can expect a strong emphasis on engineering fundamentals during technical interviews, including topics like fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and system design. The interviews often require candidates to articulate their reasoning and approach to problem-solving rather than just providing correct answers.
Initial interviews often include behavioral questions aimed at assessing cultural fit and communication style, with a focus on how candidates have handled past situations and decisions. This aspect is crucial as it sets the tone for later technical evaluations.
The onsite interview typically includes a presentation where candidates discuss a personal project or past work, followed by a Q&A session. This format tests both technical knowledge and the ability to communicate effectively in front of a panel.
Candidates should prepare for analytical questions that may be intentionally vague, requiring them to demonstrate their thought process and reasoning under uncertainty. This aspect emphasizes the importance of articulating design trade-offs and constraints.
The interview process is generally perceived as challenging, with a focus on depth and consistency across multiple rounds. Candidates often feel pressure to perform under time constraints, especially during technical discussions and the onsite format.