Instinet Interview Questions
& Process

First, there was an HDL design problem to solve. After submitting a working solution, I was called for an interview. Then I had an interview with the group, which was pretty easy. Finally, there was a design problem to complete in about an hour.

There were two rounds total. The first interview was with an associate and the second interview was with the manager. Both interviews were about thirty minutes each, so the total interview time was about one hour. It was a pretty friendly and casual interview overall. I got an offer within a few weeks, but I do have to pass a drug test and a background check before I can accept. If I fail either of those, then the offer will be rescinded.

The interview process started with a 1-hour phone call with the team leader. He first introduced himself, gave a brief overview of the company, and explained the role and their expectations. Then, we moved on to the questions covering FIX protocol, troubleshooting, task prioritization, and some basic Linux and networking knowledge. I felt the interview went well and made a good impression. I passed this stage and was invited for a face-to-face interview at their office. However, as I was living in mainland Europe at the time and they declined to cover travel expenses, I suggested a video call. They insisted on an in-person meeting, which led me to withdraw my application. I decided against joining a company that couldn't cover travel for potential candidates and refused a video call alternative, which proved valid during the 2020 pandemic. Ultimately, I'm glad I made that choice, as I later joined a more reputable firm that covered all interview-related travel and accommodation.

First, I had a quick 15-minute phone chat with someone from HR. Right after that, I went to the office in Midtown Manhattan for two back-to-back 30-minute interviews, one with an associate and then one with a manager. A couple of weeks after that, they extended an offer.