I figured I'd make this post after my interview process. I was unfortunately rejected (they didn't state why, but after talking with a couple of engineers who went to my alma mater that I knew, it seems it was a headcount issue and I had interviewed a bit too late)
Background:
- Top 10 CS School
- CSE + Math Bachelor's, summa cum laude
- Current MSE student in CSE
- Past Internships: One at a trading firm, another at a bank; both full stack with emphasis on backend
I applied online without a referral.
Stage 1:
Received OA shortly after applying. The OA was split into 3 parts:
- OA Questions (90 minutes)
- MCQ (~20 minutes)
- Zap-N Test (~60 minutes)
The OA wasn't too bad. I was given 2 OOP questions, where a lot of starter code is given and you need to fill out a few functions. I am not sure of their question bank, but some may be a bit more difficult or at the same difficulty.
MCQ was entirely based on DSA, OS, and Networks. They pretty much asked a mix of everything so make sure to brush up on all of these concepts. Optiver seems to ask more about networks than other firms, so make sure you know some basics on it.
The Zap-N is a "brain games" test. This means a multitude (I forgot how many) of memory games, reflex tests, logic, etc. I don't have too much to say here, but maybe try some of those memory games you find online. I am not sure how much weight this part carries, but make sure you are focused for this portion.
Stage 2:
After submitting the OA, I received an email a few weeks later inviting me to a behavior round with a recruiter. I spoke about my recent trading firm experience, my interest in trading/mathematics, went in depth about my project. Overall, not too bad at this stage. I was then told I would head back in the coming week or so. I had heard from others that multiple people were rejected at this stage, so I am not sure what they specifically wanted.
Stage 3:
I was informed ~1 week after my behavior that I would need to schedule a technical round. This was done remotely. We first talked about my experience and resume for a few minutes. We then went into the technical side of the interview. Overall, not bad, but do make sure to brush up on DS&A. Afterwards, I got to ask any final questions.
Final Round:
I got an invite for the final round, which consisted of two separate interviews, followed by a wrap-up with HR. All of these were done remote.
Interview 1:
Started with some resume review and generic experience questions. This question was more OOP related but came with some nuances. They asked me to write it in C++. It felt a bit tricky, took me a bit to solve it, then optimize from there. Overall, felt I solved it but could have gone faster.
Interview 2:
Again, introductions and background. This was a system design question, no coding required. They expect you to have a good working knowledge of DS&A and OS for this. They expect you to explain your design choices and the algorithms you use thoroughly. Though it felt a bit stressful, I really enjoyed this question.
Wrap-Up:
After the 2 interviews, I talked with my recruiter about what the next steps were, how I felt with the experience, and any last clarifications I needed. Nothing special here, recruiter was very nice.
Result:
I was told it would take a few business days to hear back. I had my final interviews on Friday, and got my rejection on Monday. I was told in the email that they could not given reasons for my rejection, which I noticed was not mentioned in other rejections. I saw them at a career fair at my school the day after, telling my they had stopped hiring for SWE in Chicago. Possibly due to headcount, possibly because I fell just short of the bar. :/ But, gotta pick yourself up! (Also, the recruiter said to email/call her in the future)
Overall, I felt Optiver had a nice streamed process, I had solid communication throughout it from the recruiters and felt that the process wasn't too bad. I fell a bit short, but hopefully I have a chance in the future!
I hope this helps others in the recruiting process in the future!