Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Sargent & Lundy, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
I went through a one-time, two-hour interview with a recruiter alongside other members of the team. The questions were mostly behavioral, but there was definitely space for technical responses if I wanted to go there.
For an internship, the process was unusually simple: just one interview lasting about two hours. It was split into three shorter sessions of roughly 30 minutes each.
The interview process typically consists of multiple back-to-back sessions, often lasting around 30 minutes each, with a mix of HR and engineering team members. Candidates reported a range of experiences from smooth and organized to lengthy and disjointed, with some feeling that the structure allowed for a conversational atmosphere.
Most interviews emphasized behavioral questions, assessing candidates' fit within the team and their ability to collaborate. This approach often led to relaxed discussions rather than high-pressure evaluations, with interviewers showing genuine interest in candidates' backgrounds and motivations.
While some candidates encountered a few technical questions, they were generally less emphasized compared to behavioral aspects. The technical inquiries tended to focus on fundamental concepts rather than advanced testing, allowing candidates to showcase their experience in a more approachable manner.
The overall atmosphere varied, with some candidates describing it as friendly and engaging, while others noted a lack of energy and disengagement from interviewers. A positive environment was often linked to a more enjoyable interview experience, whereas a disorganized or repetitive process led to frustration.
Candidates experienced mixed results regarding communication post-interview, with some receiving prompt feedback while others felt ghosted or left without clear next steps. Clarity in communication throughout the process was noted as a significant factor in overall satisfaction.
Candidates expressed varying levels of satisfaction with the outcomes, with some feeling confident after their interviews only to receive rejections or no follow-up. Setting clear expectations from the start and maintaining transparency throughout the process were highlighted as areas for improvement.