Interview Stuff

Why did you apply for this role?
Application of compilers, wanted a more systems-oriented role rather than a current role, maybe can transition to AI later (or AI systems/compilers), really like the company.

What experience do you have that makes you a good fit for this position?
341 CA + taking OS, worked on an RTOS, C++ programming at previous 2 internships, HPVM lab.

What motivated you to pursue a career in this industry?
One of the best applications of systems and compilers, I really feel like I can learn a lot about application-specific compilers and optimizations, as well as learning a lot about the interplay between systems and compilers

What is your greatest strength and how does it relate to this job?
Greatest strength is efficiency (think AMD, had to be quick, fast-adjusting, but also good).

How would you handle a difficult customer or situation?
I would try and deescalate the situation if there were on. Then, I would try and understand the customer's viewpoints: what the customer wants, why the customer is frustrated. Then, I would use positive language (rather than "we can't do that...", use "what we can do is...") to try and come to a compromise while delivering on non-negotiables.

What motivates you to do your best work?
My duty. (Bring up high school story about grades and how discipline and doing what you need to, even if you don't like it, is what is worth in life). Since then, I've always strove to put my 100% in everything I do, even if it isn't necessarily something I like. Also, pursuit of knowledge.

How have you handled stress or pressure in the past?
Write it down. Stress in inevitable, and it's best to not sit with those thoughts. Best thing to do is write down your thoughts on a piece of paper so they're not in your head, and just take 5 minutes to think about something else. When you come back, your head will be much more clear.

Tell me about a time when you had to make a tough decision at work.
What unique skills do you bring to this role?
Compiler experience.

Can you provide an example of a time where you solved a problem creatively?
AMD compiler debug attachment. Similarly, CA question (not as creative as one-the-spot, fast).

Are there any areas in which your performance could improve?
Burnout. Dealing with hyper-optimization.

Describe how your current/previous experience relates to the position.
341 CA + taking OS. Previous experience in compilers and high-performance algo dev in C++, all very critical to performant system APIs.

What do you think differentiates this company from its competitors?
AI and algorithms, putting SWEs first. WLB.