Initial Screening
The interview process typically begins with a phone conversation focused on the candidate's background, work history, and motivation for the role, creating a relaxed atmosphere rather than a high-pressure test.

Real, anonymous reports from people who interviewed for Software Engineer at Thornton Tomasetti, newest first and distilled into what to expect across the loop.
After applying online, I moved into a phone conversation where the goal was simple: understand my background, work history, and motivation for joining. That call was led by a Senior Engineer and felt like it was really meant to connect my experience to the team and the role, not to trick me.
I applied online and the process moved fairly quickly. The first conversation was with someone from the team (a Senior Engineer or other interviewer, depending on the round) where we talked through my background and what I was interested in, and how my experience connected to the role. A couple of days or a week later I had a more formal interview, either in person at their London office or remotely, and it felt intentionally conversational rather than like a test.
The interview process typically begins with a phone conversation focused on the candidate's background, work history, and motivation for the role, creating a relaxed atmosphere rather than a high-pressure test.
Candidates may experience a technical screen that emphasizes understanding and discussion of engineering concepts rather than high-pressure coding tests, with questions often rooted in their academic and project experience.
Interviews often include discussions about the candidate's experiences, motivations, and fit for the team, with a focus on clarity and alignment with the company's work culture.
On-site interviews may involve a mix of technical discussions and informal interactions with team members, providing insight into the work environment while assessing the candidate's reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Candidates have reported varying experiences with communication throughout the process, with some experiencing smooth interactions while others faced delays and unprofessional behavior from recruiters.
The overall difficulty of the interviews can vary, with some candidates finding the process straightforward and others feeling challenged by the technical depth, impacting their final impressions and outcomes.