BenevolentAI Software Engineer Interview Questions
& Process

It was a three-stage process, with the last stage being a three-part interview. First, there was a screening call where I learned about the company. Then, I had a technical challenge, which was pretty straightforward in concept but tricky in presentation, mainly testing problem-decomposition skills. The final interview was a long, three-hour, three-part session: a frontend challenge that was general but quite lengthy, an engineering practices/fit discussion with three team members covering topics like best practices, testing, and designer collaboration, and a final algorithm-type question that was fairly standard and relevant to the company's work. The whole thing was smooth and professional, with quick responses from Brady, the recruiter. A feedback call happened the day after the final interview, and I got an offer.

So, Benevolent had this 3-part interview process. First up was a chat with Brady from Talent Acquisition. We talked about my experience, what I'm after in a job, and he gave me the lowdown on Benevolent, the role, and pay. Then came a technical screen on Hackerrank with an engineer, after signing an NDA. The last part had three bits: another Hackerrank technical question with an engineer, then a discussion about software engineering practices with two engineers. After a quick break, one more Hackerrank question with an engineer. Finally, Brady called me back with feedback and an offer! I really liked having one main contact and the clear feedback.

I got an offer, but then BAI took it back two days later. The only reason they gave was that my communication skills weren't good enough. I hope that if they withdraw your offer, you haven't quit your old job or broken your lease yet. Otherwise, you'll be jobless, without insurance, and homeless.