Top Interview Questions for Java Software Engineer
A Java software engineer is someone who designs and develops computer applications using the Java programming language. Their responsibilities include defining software requirements, writing clean and efficient code for various applications, and running tests to improve system functionality.
According to Statista, Java is one of the 5 most widely utilized programming languages among developers worldwide in 2021.
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Hard Skills
Use these questions to identify a candidate’s technical knowledge and abilities
Soft Skills
Use these questions to assess a candidate’s personality traits and cognitive skills
What to look for while interviewing for a Java Software Engineer?
The skills required for the Java software engineer position are expertise in Java testing and tools and teamwork. Therefore, look for a candidate who has knowledge of all these.
Here are some skills to look out for when hiring a Java Software Engineer.
Role-specific skills to look for: Java programming, Java testing tools, Java web framework, Object-relational mapping, and Bigdata
Soft skills to look for: Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, interpersonal skills, and logical thinking.
Pro Tip: Always screen before you interview. Use Online Assessment to screen applicants for Java software engineer positions before blocking your time for an in-person interview.
Questions to ask while interviewing a Java Software Engineer
We have compiled a set of questions with the help of 70+ hiring managers at different organizations.
Top Role-based interview questions for Java Software Engineer
Can a double value be stored in a long variable without casting?
Purpose of this interview question:
This is designed to know if the candidate knows about the different variable types. Since variable types are basic of any programming language, hence its knowledge is critical for any software engineer.
What to listen for:
- Top candidates would explain the reasons why or why not a double variable be stored in a long variable without casting.
Explain a Spring bean lifecycle.
Purpose of this interview question:
For any software developer, the knowledge of different frameworks is important to their job role, and as Spring is a crucial part of Java hence it becomes crucial for a Java software developer.
What to listen for:
- A top candidate would list all the steps that Spring bean consists of.
What are the implementations of the Spring beam factory?
Purpose of this interview question:
Like the question above, this question too tests the candidates’ knowledge of a crucial framework for this job role like Spring Java software development.
What to listen for:
- An ideal answer would include what is a bean factory and list out its different interfaces and sub-interfaces.
How to screen Java Software Engineer for soft skills
What are some principles every software developer should follow, in your opinion?
Purpose of this interview question:
Being aware of the responsibility and skills required as a professional is a sign of a top candidate.
What to listen for:
- Listen for the specific skills required for a Java developer and if the candidate fits the company culture or not.
Can you tell us about the latest project you have worked on? What was your contribution to its success and did you face any obstacles during it?
Purpose of this interview question:
This question is designed to get an insight into the candidate’s overall contribution to the project, management skills, and how they work with a team.
What to listen for:
- Listen for the evidence of problem-solving, time management, and other required skills required for a software engineer’s job position.
Do you have any questions for us?
Purpose of this interview question:
The question is designed to know how interested the candidates are in your company.
What to listen for:
- Top candidates would ask questions and show interested in the job and company-related details.
Start Optimizing your Java Software Engineer Hiring today
Find and hire talent with confidence. If your candidate doesn’t know the answer to the above questions and you’re hiring for a Java Software Engineer position, then they’re probably not a great fit.
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