Interview Guides
Interview Questions
Software Engineer
Develop, create, and modify general computer applications software or specialized utility programs.
Analyze user needs and develop software solutions. Design software or customize software for client use with the aim of optimizing operational efficiency. May analyze and design databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team. May supervise computer programmers.
Download below a PDF version of interview questions for Software Engineer
Top Interview question for "Software Engineer"
Programming
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Why did you become a software engineer?
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Tell me about a project you are proud of where you designed and implemented a program using scientific analysis and mathematical models. Did the project turn out as predicted?
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Tell me about an existing software program that you modified/improved to meet the customer’s needs.
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Describe a challenging design task that you faced and how you overcame it.
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What processes do you follow to catch any mistakes in your work?
Needs Analysis
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Who do you see as your customer?
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What data do you gather and to whom do you talk to identify the user’s needs and the feasibility of the design?
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Tell me a time you researched and designed a solution to meet a customer’s requirements.
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Tell me about a time you got negative feedback on your work. How did you respond?
Communication
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What information is important to share with your supervisor and colleagues? How do you communicate this information?
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Tell me about a time you put together a research paper. How did find relevant information and organize your research?
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How do you disseminate information to other people? How do you decide what's important?
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How do you explain complex information to a person not in your industry?
Project Management
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Tell me your process for rolling out / installing a new software program.
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Can you tell me about a time when you had a conflict on a team project and how you ended up finding a solution? What would you do differently?
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How do you organize your day? How do you handle interruptions?
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Tell me about a time when you had to wait on others before beginning your work.
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Tell me about a program you implemented that didn’t go so well. What did you learn?
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Explain your work process if you have multiple projects due immediately.
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Tell me a time when business priorities shifted and significantly changed your assignment.
Written and Oral Communication
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What information is important to share with your supervisor and colleagues? How do you communicate this information?
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Describe a written technical report or presentation you had to complete concerning project specifications, activities, or status.
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What is the most effective way you have found to engage stakeholders where you have to convince people who do not work for you to provide information or change their process?
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How do you train end users to use the new program?
“I feel as though I have a consultant on my shoulder ready to assist and discuss with me any difficult choices that result from the results of the testing. They have this area nailed, and I am very satisfied and content with the system.”
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