Preparing for an interview at Roush requires a balanced focus on technical capability, operational safety, and administrative compliance. You must demonstrate that you are not only a competent engineer but also a highly reliable operator who respects the physical risks associated with vehicle testing.

Role-Related Knowledge – You must understand automotive subsystems, vehicle dynamics, and the basics of data logging. Familiarity with vehicle networks and diagnostic protocols is highly valued.

Safety Mindset – Roush maintains a zero-tolerance policy for unsafe testing practices. Be ready to explain how you prioritize safety, manage operational risks, and maintain compliance with driving regulations.

Adaptability and Communication – Testing environments change rapidly due to weather, hardware availability, and shifting client priorities. You must show that you can adapt your schedule and communicate technical issues clearly to cross-functional teams.

The hiring process for a QA Engineer at Roush is streamlined, practical, and highly focused on operational readiness. Because the company must rapidly deploy qualified engineers to support active testing programs, the time from application to offer can be exceptionally fast.

The process typically begins with a direct phone screen from a recruiter or hiring manager. This initial conversation focuses heavily on your interest in the role, your technical background, and your operational availability. For many testing positions, the team will immediately establish whether you can accommodate the shifts required for active testing cycles.

Following the initial screen, the process moves into a verification and safety clearance phase. This includes a comprehensive driving record review, a background check, and a mandatory drug screening. For roles requiring commercial or specialized vehicle operations, you will also undergo a DOT physical exam. Some locations may also require a brief written test covering driving theory, safety rules, or basic automotive diagnostics.

The timeline above illustrates the typical progression from your initial application to the final offer stage. Candidates should use this timeline to ensure they have their driving records and professional references prepared in advance to prevent any delays during the verification phase.

To succeed in the Roush interview process, you must perform strongly across several key evaluation pillars.

Vehicle Operational Safety

Operating prototype vehicles requires extreme care and adherence to safety protocols. You will be evaluated on your understanding of defensive driving, vehicle dynamics, and emergency response procedures.

Be ready to go over:

• Defensive Driving Principles – Techniques for maintaining vehicle control in adverse weather or high-stress environments.
• Pre-Trip Inspections – How to perform systematic checks on vehicle fluids, brakes, tires, and safety equipment before starting a test.
• Incident Reporting – The exact steps to take in the event of a mechanical failure or on-road accident.
• Advanced concepts (less common) – High-speed track safety, evasive maneuvering, and handling electric vehicle (EV) high-voltage systems safely.

Example scenarios:

• "Explain how you would handle a sudden loss of brake pressure while executing a durability cycle on a public highway."
• "Describe the pre-test inspection checklist you would use for a vehicle that has been sitting idle in extreme heat."

Test Execution and Data Logging

A QA Engineer must ensure that test parameters are met precisely and that all data is recorded accurately.

Be ready to go over:

• Data Acquisition Systems – Setting up, configuring, and monitoring sensors and data loggers.
• Test Protocol Adherence – Following step-by-step testing instructions without deviation.
• Anomaly Documentation – Writing clear, objective, and detailed reports when a component fails or behaves unexpectedly.
• Advanced concepts (less common) – Analyzing CAN bus traffic, utilizing diagnostic software, and troubleshooting sensor calibration drift.

Example scenarios:

• "How would you document a transient electrical rattle that only occurs when accelerating between 30 and 40 mph on a rough road?"
• "Describe your process for validating that a temperature sensor is recording accurate data during a thermal test."

Physical and Regulatory Readiness

Because of the physical demands of vehicle testing, Roush requires all candidates to meet strict physical and regulatory standards.

Be ready to go over:

• DOT Physical Requirements – Understanding the vision, hearing, and physical endurance standards required for vehicle operators.
• Drug and Alcohol Screening – Adhering to strict compliance policies, which are mandatory for all safety-sensitive roles.
• Schedule Flexibility – Demonstrating your ability to work early mornings, late nights, or weekend shifts as testing demands dictate.

Example scenarios:

• "Are you comfortable operating vehicles for extended periods, including driving in night conditions or extreme weather?"
• "How do you manage your physical readiness and alertness when transitioning between day and night shifts?"