Qualcomm is a global leader in wireless technology and semiconductor innovation, continuously pushing the boundaries to enable a more connected world. Known for pioneering technologies such as 5G, Qualcomm plays a significant role in various tech domains, including mobile, automotive, and IoT.

As a Senior Data Engineer at Qualcomm, you will be part of the IoT team, focusing on next-generation IoT products. This role involves research, analysis, and developing scalable, secure, and resilient data systems. Candidates are expected to have a strong technical background with hands-on experience in programming languages like Python, C++, or Java, and knowledge in data architecture, modeling, and AWS services. If you are skilled in leading teams and are passionate about technological innovation, this is the ideal role for you.

Use Interview Query to navigate the interview process efficiently, with insights into the typical stages and tips for success.

Submitting Your Application

The first step is to submit a compelling application that reflects your technical skills and interest in joining Qualcomm as a Data Engineer. Whether you were contacted by a Qualcomm recruiter or have taken the initiative yourself, carefully review the job description and tailor your CV according to the prerequisites.

Tailoring your CV may include identifying specific keywords that the hiring manager might use to filter resumes and crafting a targeted cover letter. Furthermore, don’t forget to highlight relevant skills and mention your work experiences.

Recruiter/Hiring Manager Call Screening

If your CV happens to be among the shortlisted few, a recruiter from the Qualcomm Talent Acquisition Team will make contact and verify key details like your experiences and skill level. Behavioral questions may also be a part of the screening process.

In some cases, the Qualcomm data engineer hiring manager stays present during the screening round to answer your queries about the role and the company itself. They may also indulge in surface-level technical and behavioral discussions.

The whole recruiter call should take about 30 minutes.

Technical Virtual Interview

Successfully navigating the recruiter round will present you with an invitation for the technical screening round. Technical screening for the Qualcomm data engineer role usually is conducted through virtual means, including video conference and screen sharing. Questions in this 1-hour long interview stage may revolve around Qualcomm’s data systems, ETL pipelines, and SQL queries.

For data engineering roles, a take-home assignment or live coding challenge focusing on data manipulation, scripting languages, or data pipeline design might be incorporated. Your proficiency against data modeling, SQL, programming languages (Python, Java, C++), and cloud platforms may also be assessed during the round.

Virtual Onsite Interview Rounds

Followed by a second recruiter call outlining the next stage, you’ll be invited to attend the virtual onsite interview loop. Multiple interview rounds, varying with the role, will be conducted throughout the day. Your technical prowess, including programming and data engineering capabilities, will be evaluated against the finalized candidates throughout these interviews.

If you were assigned take-home exercises, a presentation round may also await you during the onsite interview for the Data Engineer role at Qualcomm.

Quick Tips For Qualcomm Data Engineer Interviews

You should plan to brush up on any technical skills and try as many practice interview questions and mock interviews as possible. A few tips for acing your Qualcomm interview include:

• Know Your Stuff: Qualcomm interviews are straightforward and focus on your resume details. Be prepared to discuss each project or experience mentioned in-depth.
• Be Technical: Your technical knowledge around data engineering practices, especially in relation to cloud platforms, data modeling, and large-scale distributed systems, will be tested. Ensure you are well-versed in your fundamentals.
• Be Enthusiastic and Quick: Qualcomm’s interview process is quite fast-paced compared to other large companies. Stay enthusiastic and keep your answers concise and meaningful to keep the momentum going.

Typically, interviews at Qualcomm vary by role and team, but commonly Data Engineer interviews follow a fairly standardized process across these question topics.

• How would you choose the k value when using k-means clustering? When using k-means clustering, how would you determine the optimal number of clusters (k) to use?

• How do you calculate the sample size necessary for an accurate measurement in an A/B test? You're analyzing an A/B test with a test group and a control group. How do you determine the required sample size for accurate measurement?

• Should the power get bigger or smaller to measure very small differences between two groups with similar and sufficient sample sizes? If the sample size is similar and sufficient between the test and control groups, should the statistical power increase or decrease to detect very small differences?

What is the average salary for a Data Engineer at Qualcomm?

Q: What is the interview process like at Qualcomm for the Data Engineer position?

The interview process at Qualcomm is streamlined and efficient, often taking less than a month. It typically includes a phone screening, a technical interview, and a virtual onsite interview. The focus is on your resume and practical skills, rather than tricky or unexpected questions.

Q: What qualifications are required for the Data Engineer position at Qualcomm?

Qualcomm requires candidates to have a bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related field, along with 6-9 years of experience in Data Engineering. A strong background in data architecture, data modeling, and programming languages like Python and SQL is essential. Advanced degrees and experience with AWS services, Kafka, and Apache Airflow are preferred.

Q: What are the primary responsibilities for the Data Engineer role at Qualcomm?

As a Data Engineer at Qualcomm, you will lead a team to design and develop next-generation IoT products. Your responsibilities include technical leadership, solving complex problems, engaging with product management and customers, and ensuring high code quality, scalability, and security of services.

Q: What is the company culture like at Qualcomm?

Qualcomm promotes a fast-paced and collaborative work environment. The company values innovation and provides opportunities for employees to work on cutting-edge technologies in IoT. The team environment is supportive and focuses on collective growth and learning.

Q: How can I prepare for an interview at Qualcomm?

To prepare for an interview at Qualcomm, familiarize yourself with the company's IoT products and services. Practice common interview questions and review your technical skills. Use resources like Interview Query to help you brush up on relevant topics and stay current with industry trends.

If you’re looking for more insights about Qualcomm and preparing for your Data Engineer interview, check out our detailed Qualcomm Interview Guide. We have compiled numerous interview questions relevant to the role and other positions like software engineer and data analyst. At Interview Query, we provide you with a comprehensive toolkit to excel in your interviews by building your confidence, providing in-depth knowledge, and offering strategic guidance. Explore all our company interview guides for better preparation, and feel free to reach out with any questions. Good luck with your Qualcomm interview!