Entry-Level Data Engineer Interview Preparation Guide (FAANG Standards)
Data Engineer
entry
5 rounds
Updated 11/23/2025
This guide is based on general FAANG interview practices and may not reflect specific company procedures.
Entry-level data engineer interviews at FAANG companies typically consist of 5 rounds designed to assess fundamental technical skills (coding, SQL, data engineering concepts), basic system design thinking, and cultural fit. The process emphasizes learning ability, problem-solving approach, and collaboration. Interviews progress from recruiter screening through multiple technical assessments to a final behavioral round.
Interview Rounds
1
Recruiter Screening
30 min3 focus topicsbehavioral
2
Technical Phone Screen - Coding and SQL
60 min4 focus topicstechnical
3
Technical Interview - Data Engineering Fundamentals
60 min5 focus topicstechnical
4
Technical Interview - Data Pipeline and System Design Basics
60 min5 focus topicssystem design
5
Behavioral Interview
45 min5 focus topicsbehavioral
Additional Information