Zenefits is looking for a Software Engineer 1 to join our growing team. This role is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and contributing to the overall success of our products.
Rounds·4
Timeline·~7d
Experience·0 - 2 yrs
Comp band·US$90000 - US$120000
Interview time·195 min
Evaluation
Preparation
Tips
Study plan
Fig · Study plan — 03 phases
01 / 03Phase 01 of 03
Week 1: Data Structures & Algorithms fundamentals. Big O notation.
Week 1: Focus on core data structures (arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, graphs) and basic algorithms (sorting, searching). Practice implementing these in your preferred language. Understand time and space complexity (Big O notation).
Phase 02 of 03
Week 2: Advanced Algorithms & System Design basics.
Week 2: Dive into more advanced algorithms like dynamic programming, greedy algorithms, and graph traversal. Work on medium-difficulty coding problems that utilize these concepts. Start exploring system design basics if time permits.
Phase 03 of 03
Week 3: Behavioral preparation and company research.
Week 3: Focus on behavioral questions. Prepare stories using the STAR method for common scenarios like teamwork, problem-solving, handling failure, and leadership. Research Zenefits' mission, values, and recent news. Practice explaining your resume projects.
Questions
Locations
Fig · Regions — 02 locations
01 / 02Location
Interview focus
Common questions
Tips
Location
Interview focus
Common questions
Tips
Rounds
Expand a step for evaluation criteria, sample questions, and prep notes.
Recruiter Screen · 30 min · Recruiter/HR
This initial screening call with a recruiter is designed to understand your background, career goals, and motivation for applying to Zenefits. They will also provide an overview of the company and the role, and answer any initial questions you may have.
What they look for
Evaluation
Sample questions
Tell me about yourself.
Why are you interested in this role at Zenefits?
What are your salary expectations?
Prep for this round
Common rejection reasons
Technical Interview - Coding · 60 min · Software Engineer
This round focuses on your technical abilities. You will be asked to solve coding problems, typically involving data structures and algorithms. The interviewer will assess your approach to problem-solving, your coding skills, and your ability to explain your thought process and the complexity of your solution.
What they look for
Evaluation
Sample questions
Given a binary tree, find its inorder traversal.
Implement a function to find the kth smallest element in an unsorted array.
Write a program to detect a cycle in a linked list.
Prep for this round
Common rejection reasons
Technical Interview - System Design · 60 min · Senior Software Engineer / Engineering Manager
This round evaluates your ability to design and architect software systems. You'll be presented with a high-level problem and asked to design a solution, considering aspects like scalability, reliability, performance, and maintainability. This is more conceptual and focuses on your architectural thinking.
What they look for
Evaluation
Sample questions
Design a system to handle real-time notifications.
How would you design a rate limiter?
Design a distributed cache system.
Prep for this round
Common rejection reasons
Behavioral Interview · 45 min · Engineering Manager
This interview focuses on your behavioral aspects and how you would fit into the team and company culture. You'll be asked questions about your past experiences, how you handle challenges, work with others, and your career goals. The manager will also assess your potential for growth within the company.
What they look for
Evaluation
Sample questions
Tell me about a time you failed and what you learned from it.
Describe a challenging project you worked on and how you overcame obstacles.
How do you handle constructive criticism?
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Prep for this round
Common rejection reasons
DSA
Frequently reported on Zenefits loops
Other guides
