Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Roche, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
I started by applying through the company’s Workday process after finding the role on LinkedIn. It took a bit to hear back—around a couple of weeks—and the first step didn’t even feel like a traditional interview. I was sent a link to record answers to prompts on video with a tight window to finish. Once I cleared that, HR followed up directly to schedule a technical conversation with the manager.
My earliest stage was very “system-first.” After the application was screened, I got a HireVue-style video round with typical behavioral prompts—collaboration, leadership, how I handled conflict, and where I expected myself to be in five years. It didn’t feel like a live human discussion as much as an online step to filter candidates.
The interview process typically starts with a video recording round where candidates answer behavioral prompts, followed by a conversation with HR that focuses on background and work style. This initial stage is often perceived as automated and less personal, which may affect candidate comfort levels.
Candidates can expect a mix of coding challenges, including LeetCode-style questions and system design interviews that assess problem-solving skills and technical depth. The technical rounds are structured to evaluate both correctness and performance in coding tasks.
Subsequent interviews often involve a hiring manager and a panel of engineers, focusing on both technical and behavioral aspects to gauge team fit and communication skills. The panel format can create a fast-paced environment requiring clear and structured responses.
Candidates frequently report a lack of communication post-interview, with delays in receiving feedback or updates about their application status. This can lead to frustration and uncertainty about the outcome of the interview process.
Throughout the interview process, there is a strong emphasis on assessing cultural fit, with questions aimed at understanding candidates' work styles and collaboration skills. Interviewers often steer discussions towards how candidates would integrate into the team dynamics.
The interview experience is generally described as structured and professional, though candidates note varying levels of difficulty across rounds. Many feel that while the process is challenging, it is fair and focused on evaluating relevant skills and team compatibility.