Work sample test and structured interview for {role_name}

After shortlisting, assess candidates' skills with a work sample task, followed by an assessment and thorough evaluation.

How to structure the interview to assess skills and cultural fit for {role_name}

Work sample test (Home assignment)

Recruitment Bullet

Assess the candidate’s practical skills by assigning a real-world task similar to the work they would do if hired.

  • Title: Circuit Design and Testing for a Temperature Sensor
  • Objective: Design and develop a temperature sensor circuit that reads temperature data and provides the output to an embedded system for further processing.
  • Requirements:
    • Design a simple temperature sensor circuit using a thermistor.
    • Provide a schematic diagram using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD or Altium).
    • Simulate the circuit to ensure it functions as expected.
    • Write a brief report explaining the design choices, testing procedures, and how the circuit integrates with the embedded system.
    • Optional: Provide a code snippet showing how the sensor data is processed in an embedded system (e.g., using a microcontroller like Arduino).
  • Time Frame: 5-7 days

Questions based on home assignment : 

Recruitment Bullet

Once done with work sample test evaluate the candidate’s technical proficiency based on the work sample task.

Technical questions

Recruitment Bullet

Duration : 10 minutes/question

  • How did you choose the specific thermistor for this circuit design?
    • Expected Answer: The candidate should mention parameters such as resistance range, temperature coefficient, and accuracy as key factors in selecting the thermistor.
    • Sample Answer: "I selected a 10k NTC thermistor because it provides accurate temperature readings within the operational range of 0-100°C, and its temperature coefficient is ideal for this application."
  • Can you explain how you tested the circuit and validated its performance?
    • Expected Answer: Look for explanations of simulation tools used, test cases, and real-world testing methods.
    • Sample Answer: "I used LTSpice for initial simulation and tested the circuit at different temperatures. After verifying the output was within the expected range, I also created a prototype to ensure real-world accuracy."
  • How did you ensure that the circuit could integrate smoothly with the embedded system?
    • Expected Answer: The candidate should mention factors such as signal conditioning, interface compatibility, and data processing.
    • Sample Answer: "I ensured compatibility by adding a voltage divider for signal conditioning, and used the ADC on the microcontroller to read the sensor values accurately."

Behavioral questions

Recruitment Bullet

Duration : 10 minutes/question

  • Describe a challenge you faced while designing the circuit and how you resolved it.
    • Expected Answer: The candidate should demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
    • Sample Answer: "I initially had trouble stabilizing the output due to noise. After researching, I added a filter capacitor to reduce the noise, which resolved the issue and improved accuracy."
  • How do you handle situations where your design needs to be significantly altered or redone?
    • Expected Answer: Look for answers that indicate adaptability and resilience.
    • Sample Answer: "In a previous project, I realized late that the chosen component was not available. I quickly adapted by selecting an alternative and revising the design, ensuring the project stayed on track without compromising quality."
  • Can you give an example of a time when you had to collaborate with a cross-functional team (e.g., software engineers or product managers)?
    • Expected Answer: The candidate should demonstrate teamwork and communication skills.
    • Sample Answer: "While working on an embedded system project, I collaborated with the software team to ensure the data from the sensor was correctly interpreted. Regular meetings and open communication helped us align the hardware and software requirements seamlessly."

How to evaluate and compare candidates after interviews?

After interviews, it's important to evaluate and compare candidates based on a set of predefined criteria.Use scorecard to evaluate each candidate.

Recruitment Bullet

Sample scorecard based on pre-defined criteria. Here’s an example:

Criteria Sample Question Rating (1-5) Comments
Technical Skills How well did the candidate design the temperature sensor circuit?
Problem-Solving Ability How did the candidate overcome challenges in the design?
Integration Knowledge How well did the candidate integrate the hardware with the embedded system?
Communication Skills How clearly did the candidate explain their design and thought process?
Cultural Fit How well does the candidate align with the company’s values and culture?
Collaboration Can the candidate collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams?
Adaptability How does the candidate handle feedback or significant changes in the project?
Overall Impression Overall assessment of the candidate’s fit for the role

What criteria should be used to make the final hiring decision?

Final decisions should be based on the candidate's overall evaluation score, with a focus on important qualifications. Prioritize technical skills above everything else for a {role_name}, but do not forget about communication and cultural fit.

Recruitment Bullet

How to communicate the decision to candidates

Sample offer letter for {role_name}

[Company Letterhead]

‍

[Date]

‍

[Candidate’s Name]

[Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

‍

Dear [Candidate’s Name],

‍

We are pleased to offer you the position of Hardware Engineer at [Company Name]. We were impressed with your skills, experience, and your fit with our team during the interview process. We believe that you will be an excellent addition to our organization.

‍

Your starting salary will be [Salary], and your expected start date is [Start Date]. In addition, you will be eligible for the following benefits:

- [Benefit 1]

- [Benefit 2]

- [Benefit 3]

Please review the attached offer document, which includes further details about your role and the benefits package.

‍

We are excited to have you on board and look forward to your confirmation. Kindly respond by [Response Deadline].

Sincerely,

[Your Name]  

[Title]  

[Company Name]  

Sample rejection letter for {role_name}

[Company Letterhead]

[Date]

[Candidate’s Name]

[Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

Dear [Candidate’s Name],

Thank you for taking the time to interview for the Hardware Engineer position at [Company Name]. After careful consideration, we have decided to move forward with another candidate for this role.

We were very impressed by your qualifications and experience, and we encourage you to apply for future openings that match your skills and career goals.

Thank you again for your interest in [Company Name]. We wish you the best of luck in your job search and future career endeavors.

‍

Sincerely,

[Your Name]  

[Title]  

[Company Name]  

Hiring guide

About {role_name}

Job description

Source and shortlist candidates

Structured interview

Progression and salary