Yelp

New Grad

Software EngineerIC1Medium

The Yelp New Grad Software Engineer interview process is designed to assess foundational technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit for entry-level engineers. It typically involves multiple rounds focusing on data structures, algorithms, coding proficiency, and behavioral aspects.

Rounds

4

Timeline

~7 days

Experience

0 - 2 yrs

Salary Range

US$90000 - US$110000

Total Duration

210 min

Overall Evaluation Criteria

Technical Skills

Problem-solving skills
Coding proficiency (cleanliness, efficiency, correctness)
Data structures and algorithms knowledge
Communication skills
Teamwork and collaboration
Enthusiasm and cultural fit

Communication

Ability to articulate thought process
Clarity in explaining solutions
Active listening during the interview

Cultural Fit

Alignment with Yelp's values
Demonstrated interest in the company
Positive attitude and eagerness to learn

Preparation Tips

1Review fundamental data structures (arrays, linked lists, trees, graphs, hash maps) and algorithms (sorting, searching, graph traversal, dynamic programming).
2Practice coding problems on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or Coderbyte, focusing on easy and medium difficulty.
3Understand Big O notation for time and space complexity.
4Prepare to discuss your resume, projects, and any internship experiences in detail.
5Research Yelp's mission, values, and recent news.
6Prepare answers to common behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
7Practice explaining your thought process out loud as you solve coding problems.
8Prepare a few insightful questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team, or company culture.

Study Plan

1

Data Structures and Algorithms Fundamentals

Weeks 1-2: Data Structures (Arrays, Linked Lists, Hash Maps) & Basic Algorithms (Sorting, Searching, Big O).

Weeks 1-2: Focus on core data structures like arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, and hash maps. Practice basic algorithm concepts like sorting (bubble, insertion, merge, quick) and searching (binary search). Understand Big O notation for analyzing complexity.

2

Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms

Weeks 3-4: Advanced Data Structures (Trees, Graphs) & Algorithms (BFS, DFS, DP).

Weeks 3-4: Dive into more advanced data structures such as trees (binary trees, BSTs, Tries) and graphs. Cover graph traversal algorithms (BFS, DFS) and basic dynamic programming problems. Continue practicing coding problems on platforms.

3

Behavioral Preparation

Week 5: Behavioral Preparation (STAR Method, Resume Review).

Week 5: Focus on behavioral preparation. Review your resume and identify key projects and experiences. Prepare STAR method answers for common questions related to teamwork, problem-solving, challenges, and learning.

4

Mock Interviews and Final Review

Week 6: Mock Interviews & Final Review.

Week 6: Mock interviews and final review. Practice coding problems under timed conditions. Refine your explanations and ensure you can articulate your thought process clearly. Prepare questions to ask the interviewer.

Commonly Asked Questions

Given an array of integers, return indices of the two numbers such that they add up to a specific target.
Reverse a linked list.
Find the kth smallest element in a binary search tree.
Implement a function to check if a binary tree is a valid Binary Search Tree.
Describe a time you faced a technical challenge and how you overcame it.
How would you design a URL shortener?
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Why are you interested in Yelp?
Tell me about a project you are proud of.

Location-Based Differences

All Locations

Interview Focus

Emphasis on fundamental computer science concepts.Assessment of coding style and clarity.Evaluation of eagerness to learn and adapt.Understanding of teamwork and communication skills.

Common Questions

Tell me about a challenging project you worked on during your studies.

How do you approach debugging a complex issue?

Describe a time you had to learn a new technology quickly.

What are your favorite programming languages and why?

How do you collaborate with team members on a project?

Tips

Be prepared to discuss academic projects in detail.
Showcase your problem-solving process clearly.
Highlight any internship or relevant project experience.
Research Yelp's products and values.
Ask thoughtful questions about the team and culture.

Process Timeline

1
Recruiter Screen45m
2
Technical Phone Screen60m
3
Technical Interview60m
4
Hiring Manager Interview45m

Interview Rounds

4-step process with detailed breakdown for each round

1

Recruiter Screen

Initial screening call to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

Recruiter ScreenEasy
45 minRecruiter/HR

This initial screening call with a recruiter aims to understand your background, motivation for applying to Yelp, and basic qualifications. They will review your resume, ask about your interest in the role and company, and assess your communication skills and cultural fit. This is also an opportunity for you to ask initial questions about the role and the company.

What Interviewers Look For

Foundational coding skillsAbility to translate a problem into codeClear communication of thought process

Evaluation Criteria

Basic coding ability
Problem-solving approach
Communication clarity

Questions Asked

Tell me about yourself and your background.

BehavioralIntroduction

Why are you interested in software engineering at Yelp?

BehavioralMotivation

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Behavioral

Do you have any questions for me?

BehavioralEngagement

Preparation Tips

1Be ready to talk about your resume and projects.
2Express genuine interest in Yelp.
3Practice concise answers to common screening questions.
4Prepare questions about the company culture and the role.

Common Reasons for Rejection

Inability to solve basic coding problems.
Poor understanding of fundamental data structures.
Difficulty explaining thought process.
Lack of enthusiasm or cultural fit.
2

Technical Phone Screen

Coding interview focusing on data structures and algorithms.

Technical Phone Screen (Data Structures & Algorithms)Medium
60 minSoftware Engineer

This round is a technical phone or video interview focused on data structures and algorithms. You will be asked to solve one or two coding problems, typically involving arrays, strings, linked lists, trees, or graphs. You'll need to write code (often in a shared editor) and explain your thought process, including time and space complexity analysis.

What Interviewers Look For

Proficiency in at least one programming language.Ability to implement common data structures and algorithms.Logical thinking and problem-solving skills.Clear communication of the solution and its trade-offs.

Evaluation Criteria

Correctness of code
Efficiency of solution (time and space complexity)
Problem-solving approach
Coding style and readability
Ability to explain the solution

Questions Asked

Given an array of integers, return indices of the two numbers such that they add up to a specific target.

ArrayHash MapTwo Pointers

Reverse a linked list.

Linked ListPointers

Implement a function to check if a string is a palindrome.

StringTwo Pointers

Preparation Tips

1Practice coding problems on platforms like LeetCode (focus on Easy/Medium).
2Be prepared to explain your code line by line.
3Practice analyzing the time and space complexity of your solutions.
4Think out loud throughout the problem-solving process.
5Choose a programming language you are comfortable with.

Common Reasons for Rejection

Failure to solve coding problems correctly or efficiently.
Inability to explain the logic behind the solution.
Poor time management during the coding exercise.
Lack of understanding of time and space complexity.
3

Technical Interview

In-depth technical assessment, potentially including coding and behavioral questions.

Technical InterviewMedium
60 minSoftware Engineer / Engineering Manager

This round typically involves a deeper dive into technical skills, potentially including another coding problem or a discussion about a past project. It might also include behavioral questions to assess your fit with the team and company culture. Some companies might introduce a very basic system design question, focusing on high-level components and trade-offs, even for new grads.

What Interviewers Look For

Ability to handle more challenging coding problems.Sound reasoning and approach to problem-solving.Demonstration of collaboration and communication skills.Potential for growth within the company.

Evaluation Criteria

Problem-solving skills on more complex problems.
Coding proficiency and best practices.
Understanding of basic system design concepts (if applicable).
Behavioral competencies (teamwork, communication, learning agility).

Questions Asked

Find the kth smallest element in a binary search tree.

TreeBinary Search TreeRecursion

Given a binary tree, determine if it is a valid binary search tree.

TreeBinary Search TreeRecursionIteration

Describe a challenging technical problem you faced in a project and how you solved it.

BehavioralProblem Solving

How would you design a simple rate limiter?

System DesignAPI

Preparation Tips

1Continue practicing coding problems, including those that require combining multiple concepts.
2Review your resume projects and be ready to discuss technical details and challenges.
3Prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method.
4If a system design question is possible, review basic concepts like APIs, databases, and scalability.
5Be prepared to discuss your learning process and how you approach new challenges.

Common Reasons for Rejection

Inability to solve more complex coding problems.
Lack of understanding of system design principles (even at a basic level for new grads).
Poor performance on behavioral questions.
Inability to articulate past experiences effectively.
4

Hiring Manager Interview

Behavioral and team fit interview with the hiring manager.

Hiring Manager InterviewMedium
45 minHiring Manager

This interview is typically with the hiring manager for the team you would be joining. The focus is on behavioral aspects, team fit, and understanding your career aspirations. They will assess how you handle challenges, work in a team, and align with Yelp's culture. You'll also have a good opportunity to learn more about the team's projects and dynamics.

What Interviewers Look For

How you collaborate and communicate.Your problem-solving approach in a team setting.Your understanding of teamwork and feedback.Your overall enthusiasm and fit with the team.

Evaluation Criteria

Teamwork and collaboration potential
Communication and interpersonal skills
Alignment with Yelp's culture and values
Motivation and career goals
Problem-solving approach in a team context

Questions Asked

Tell me about a time you had a conflict with a teammate and how you resolved it.

BehavioralTeamworkConflict Resolution

How do you handle receiving constructive criticism?

BehavioralFeedbackGrowth Mindset

What are you looking for in your first role as a software engineer?

BehavioralCareer Goals

Describe a project where you had to collaborate closely with others.

BehavioralTeamworkCollaboration

Preparation Tips

1Prepare specific examples of teamwork, leadership, and conflict resolution.
2Reiterate your interest in Yelp and the specific team.
3Ask thoughtful questions about the team's work, challenges, and culture.
4Be prepared to discuss your career goals and how this role fits into them.

Common Reasons for Rejection

Lack of alignment with team or company values.
Poor communication or interpersonal skills.
Unrealistic expectations about the role or compensation.
Lack of enthusiasm or curiosity about Yelp.

Commonly Asked DSA Questions

Frequently asked coding questions at Yelp

View all
Two SumEASYLongest Substring Without Repeating CharactersMEDIUMLongest Common PrefixEASYGroup AnagramsMEDIUMMerge IntervalsMEDIUMWord Ladder IIHARDWord LadderHARDReverse Words in a StringMEDIUMReverse Linked ListEASYCourse ScheduleMEDIUM