SUSE

1. Online application

Candidates typically apply through Jobaaj or the SUSE careers page, selecting a role suited to their Linux, cloud or support skill set. Applications are reviewed against the specific technical requirements of the open role.

2. Recruiter screening call

A talent acquisition specialist typically discusses background, motivation for working in open source software, and basic fit for the role. This call also covers logistics such as location, notice period and salary expectations.

3. Technical interview

One or more engineers assess Linux fundamentals, scripting, networking or cloud-native concepts depending on whether the role is engineering, support or DevOps focused. Candidates are often asked to reason through a problem out loud rather than simply recall facts.

4. Hands-on or design round

Candidates for engineering and infrastructure roles typically work through a practical exercise or design discussion involving containers, Kubernetes or automation tooling. Interviewers look for structured thinking and awareness of trade-offs in real production environments.

5. Managerial round

A hiring manager evaluates ownership, collaboration style and comfort working within a distributed, open source-driven engineering culture. Past examples of contributing to shared codebases or supporting customers under pressure are often discussed.

6. HR interview and offer

The final round covers compensation, location and joining timelines, followed by an offer letter. HR also typically outlines team structure, reporting lines and onboarding plans.

SUSE's interview process typically has three to four rounds for most technology and support roles.

Round 1: Recruiter screening call

A 20-30 minute call with a recruiter typically covers background, relevant Linux or cloud experience, and interest in open source technology. The recruiter also shares an overview of the team and role expectations.

• Walkthrough of past Linux, DevOps or support projects
• Understanding of SUSE's open source products and community model
• Basic fit check on location, notice period and compensation range

Round 2: Technical interview

One or two engineers conduct a 45-60 minute discussion covering Linux internals, scripting, networking or cloud-native fundamentals depending on the role. Candidates are expected to explain their reasoning clearly, not just arrive at an answer.

• Linux system administration and troubleshooting scenarios
• Container orchestration and Kubernetes basics for infrastructure roles
• Scripting or automation questions relevant to DevOps work

Round 3: Hands-on or design round

Engineering and DevOps candidates typically work through a practical task or system design discussion relevant to cloud-native infrastructure. This round often runs 45-60 minutes and may involve a shared screen or whiteboard.

• Designing a resilient container deployment pipeline
• Debugging a sample Linux configuration issue
• Discussing trade-offs between different cloud infrastructure approaches

Round 4: Managerial and HR round

A hiring manager and HR representative jointly assess team fit, communication and compensation expectations, typically lasting 30-40 minutes. This round also covers career goals and long-term interest in open source technology.

• Discussion of long-term interest in open source software
• Salary expectations and notice period