The interview process was quite disappointing. Initially, I was informed that there would be two interviews, but this turned into four rounds, each more confusing and frustrating than the last. The questions asked were antiquated and irrelevant, signaling that the company’s methodologies and systems are severely outdated. This likely explains their inability to offer competitive compensation and modern benefits. To make matters worse, after four interviews, they revealed that the pay range listed on the job posting was incorrect—a staggering $50,000 difference from what was initially advertised. Not only did this waste my time, but it also felt like a breach of trust. While the recruiter was friendly, it became clear that they lacked the necessary professionalism and organizational skills expected during such an important process. My experience has left me with serious concerns about the company’s overall ability to adapt and thrive in a modern work environment. I would strongly advise prospective candidates to proceed with caution, carefully evaluate their options, and confirm the salary in the very first interview to avoid a similar experience.

The first part of the interview process was a 30 minute phone interview briefly discussing my resume and why I wanted to work for the company. Within a week I was invited for an onsite panel interview. It consisted of a 1:1 interview with the direct report manager, and a follow-up 1:1 interview by two separate and fellow mechanical engineers working in the same department. This interview consisted of going over my resume in depth and asking me questions about my college education. They also asked me general behavioral questions such as what are my strengths and weaknesses, how I work in a team, and what are my career goals. The direct hire manager also asked how I perform under stressful situations, and even prompted me with a practice hands on mechanical engineering equation relating to rotational forces. Everyone was extremely nice and professional and put me at ease. The direct hire manager was a bit awkward when it came to looking at you eye to eye, but everyone has their own personality quirks and interviews can be a bit intimidating even for the managers doing the hiring every now and then.