MINDEF Singapore Interview Questions
& Process

There were 2 rounds for this interview. The first round was a general one where they asked typical questions about why I was interested in the role and clarifications on my experience and skills. The second round was an on-site written/digital test that involved writing an essay on a current affairs/politics topic, specifically about China and its geopolitical implications based on several articles.

I went through 3 stages: a portfolio review, a whiteboard challenge, and a culture round. After getting a verbal offer, I was ghosted because HR couldn't match my salary expectations. She said she'd check if the salary was negotiable and get back to me, but never did, even after I followed up multiple times. I also noticed they reposted the job on LinkedIn right after our salary talk. While I get that salary might be finalized after interviews, I was hoping for a definite offer, like 'The max we can offer is $____, are you okay with it?' But I didn't even get that and was ghosted without warning after the verbal offer.

This was a candid interview, and I'd say it was relatively easy. The interviewer was friendly, which made the whole experience very relaxed. It was a 1-hour interview. However, I have 3 feedbacks I would like to caution future interviewees and interviewers about. First, the HR shortlist could have been better. If they were looking for specific work experience, they could have rejected candidates from the beginning. If there was a role in a candidate's previous work experience that was not preferred, they should have been rejected from the start. Lastly, they should have stated whether it was a technical or non-technical role from the onset to prevent wasting time for everyone involved. Second, honestly, these SAF personnel as interviewers should go for classes to shortlist candidates. Halfway through the interview, it felt like they already had prejudices against the candidates. It's really a first for me, hearing that "you are too driven for this role, I don't think you will be a good fit." I wonder what all these army personnel do at work. Can MINDEF please do something about this? It's ridiculous honestly. Third, interviewees don't waste your time going for these interviews. If it is conducted by uniform personnel, you will be better off walking away. These paper personnel have no experience in the outside world; they live in their bubble. Their thinking is quite ridiculous. Good luck future candidates. It will be a pass for me for future interviews with these paper uniformed guys. Rgds.

So, there were about three rounds in total. It kicked off with a quick 3-minute video intro of myself. After that, there was a panel interview and then a unit preview. The interviewers were pretty nice and talked about what the job involves. They asked a mix of standard questions and ones specific to the role. The unit preview was a cool opportunity to chat with the team, ask them stuff, and check out the place. It all went pretty well, but I just wish the waiting time between applying and getting an offer wasn't so long.