Experiences with Principal Engineer / Technical Manager interviews last year that made me apprehensive about applying again.

Back in early 2023, I attended a few interviews for senior technical roles. Some progressed through multiple rounds, including system design.

Last year, I had two rather different experiences with Toast and Scienaptic AI.

Both interviews lasted around 1.25–1.5 hours. We discussed AI project architecture, end-to-end pipelines, system design and various technical aspects in depth. Both conversations went really well and ended on a positive note.

But afterwards, there was complete silence. No feedback or closure, despite following up with HR.

There was another experience with a well-known OS company. I was interviewing for a senior role, with around 15 years of experience. Instead of the expected Senior Principal Engineer with around 8 years of experience, an interviewer with around 4 years of experience was sent.…