Stryker Software Engineer Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

Stryker is a leading global medical technology company dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes through innovative medical devices and technology solutions.

As a Software Engineer at Stryker, your primary responsibility will be to design, develop, and implement software solutions for cutting-edge medical devices that enhance the quality of care for patients. This role requires a strong technical background in software engineering, particularly in areas such as embedded systems, network protocols, and application development. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, quality assurance specialists, and product managers, to ensure that software integrates seamlessly with medical technologies while adhering to regulatory standards.

Key responsibilities include developing Wi-Fi applications for medical devices, optimizing power management and encryption algorithms, and participating in the certification process for various protocols. You will also be expected to contribute to the design and implementation of cybersecurity measures to protect patient data and ensure compliance with industry standards.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering or a related field, along with significant experience in software development, particularly in C/C++, Linux, and networking protocols. Traits such as attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment are essential for success in this role.

This guide aims to equip you with the insights and knowledge needed to excel in your interview process with Stryker, allowing you to showcase your technical abilities and alignment with the company's mission to improve lives through innovative medical technology.

The interview process for a Software Engineer position at Stryker is structured and thorough, designed to assess both technical skills and cultural fit within the organization. The process typically unfolds in several key stages:

1. Initial Screening

The first step is an initial phone screening with a recruiter or HR representative. This conversation usually lasts about 30 minutes and focuses on your background, skills, and motivations for applying to Stryker. The recruiter will also provide insights into the company culture and the specifics of the role, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of what to expect.

2. Technical Interview

Following the initial screening, candidates typically participate in a technical interview, which may also be conducted over the phone or via video conferencing. This interview is often led by a hiring manager or a senior engineer and focuses on assessing your technical expertise. Expect questions related to software development, programming languages (such as Java, C, or C++), and problem-solving scenarios relevant to the medical device industry. You may also be asked to complete coding challenges or technical assessments to demonstrate your skills in real-time.

3. Behavioral Interview

After the technical interview, candidates usually undergo a behavioral interview. This round is designed to evaluate how well you align with Stryker's core values and culture. Interviewers will ask about your past experiences, teamwork, conflict resolution, and how you handle stress or challenges in a work environment. Be prepared to provide specific examples that showcase your problem-solving abilities and collaborative spirit.

4. Gallup Assessment

Many candidates will also be required to complete a Gallup assessment, which focuses on your strengths and how they align with the role and company culture. This assessment is a critical part of the process, as Stryker places a strong emphasis on hiring individuals who fit well within their organizational framework.

5. Onsite Interview

The final stage typically involves an onsite interview, which may consist of multiple rounds with different team members. This is an opportunity for you to meet potential colleagues and get a feel for the work environment. The onsite interviews will likely include a mix of technical and behavioral questions, as well as discussions about your previous projects and how they relate to the work you would be doing at Stryker.

Throughout the interview process, candidates are encouraged to ask questions and engage with their interviewers to demonstrate their interest in the role and the company.

Now that you have an overview of the interview process, let's delve into the specific questions that candidates have encountered during their interviews at Stryker.

Here are some tips to help you excel in your interview.

Understand the Company Culture

Stryker prides itself on being one of the World’s Best Workplaces, emphasizing a supportive and collaborative environment. Familiarize yourself with their core values and mission to improve lives through innovative medical technology. During the interview, express how your personal values align with Stryker’s commitment to quality and patient care. This will demonstrate that you are not only a technical fit but also a cultural one.

Prepare for Behavioral Questions

Expect a significant focus on behavioral and strengths-based questions. Stryker values candidates who can demonstrate their problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and adaptability. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses, ensuring you provide clear examples of how you've handled challenges in the past. Highlight experiences that showcase your ability to work under pressure, as many candidates noted the demanding nature of the interview process.

Showcase Technical Proficiency

As a software engineer, you will be expected to have a strong grasp of relevant technologies and programming languages. Brush up on your knowledge of C, C++, Java, and Linux internals, as well as protocols like TCP and UDP. Be prepared to discuss your experience with embedded systems and any relevant projects you've worked on. Candidates have noted that technical questions can be challenging, so practice coding problems and system design scenarios to build your confidence.

Engage with Your Interviewers

Candidates have reported that the interviewers at Stryker are friendly and respectful. Use this to your advantage by engaging in a two-way conversation. Ask insightful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, and the technologies they are using. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you assess if the team is the right fit for you.

Follow Up Professionally

After your interview, consider sending a follow-up email to express your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position. However, be mindful of the feedback from candidates who felt ignored after their follow-ups. Keep your message concise and professional, and avoid excessive follow-ups if you do not receive a response.

Be Ready for a Lengthy Process

The interview process at Stryker can be lengthy and may involve multiple rounds, including assessments and interviews with various stakeholders. Prepare yourself mentally for this journey and stay organized. Keep track of your interactions and any feedback you receive, as this can help you refine your approach in subsequent interviews.

Emphasize Continuous Learning

Stryker values engineers who are dedicated to personal and professional growth. Be prepared to discuss how you stay current with industry trends and technologies. Highlight any relevant certifications, courses, or self-directed learning initiatives you have undertaken. This will demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement, which is highly regarded in their engineering culture.

By following these tips, you can present yourself as a well-rounded candidate who is not only technically proficient but also a great cultural fit for Stryker. Good luck!

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Software Engineer interview at Stryker. The interview process will likely focus on your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and how well you fit into the company culture. Expect a mix of behavioral, technical, and situational questions that assess your experience and approach to software engineering in a medical technology context.

Technical Skills

1. Can you explain the process you follow for developing a software application from start to finish?

This question aims to understand your software development lifecycle knowledge and your approach to project management.

How to Answer

Outline the stages of your development process, including requirements gathering, design, implementation, testing, and deployment. Emphasize your ability to adapt to changes and collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Example

“I typically start by gathering requirements through discussions with stakeholders. After that, I create a design document that outlines the architecture and key components. I then move on to coding, followed by unit testing. Once the application is built, I conduct integration testing with the QA team to ensure everything works as expected before deployment.”

2. Describe your experience with Linux-based systems and how you have utilized them in your projects.

This question assesses your familiarity with Linux, which is crucial for the role.

How to Answer

Discuss specific projects where you used Linux, highlighting any relevant tools or frameworks. Mention your comfort level with Linux internals and any troubleshooting experiences.

Example

“I have worked extensively with Linux for embedded systems development. In my last project, I developed a Wi-Fi application that required deep integration with the Linux kernel. I utilized shell scripting for automation and debugging, which significantly improved our deployment efficiency.”

3. How do you ensure the security of the applications you develop?

Given the medical context, security is paramount, and this question evaluates your understanding of secure coding practices.

How to Answer

Discuss your knowledge of security protocols, encryption methods, and any specific frameworks you’ve used to secure applications. Mention your experience with compliance standards relevant to medical devices.

Example

“I prioritize security by implementing encryption protocols like TLS for data transmission. I also conduct regular code reviews and use static analysis tools to identify vulnerabilities early in the development process. Additionally, I stay updated on compliance standards such as FIPS to ensure our applications meet regulatory requirements.”

4. Can you explain the importance of power management algorithms in embedded systems?

This question tests your understanding of embedded systems, particularly in the context of medical devices.

How to Answer

Discuss the role of power management in extending device battery life and ensuring reliability. Provide examples of how you have implemented such algorithms in past projects.

Example

“Power management is crucial in embedded systems, especially for medical devices that require long battery life. In a previous project, I developed an algorithm that dynamically adjusted the power consumption based on the device's operational state, which extended battery life by 30% without compromising performance.”

5. What experience do you have with wireless communication protocols, particularly Wi-Fi?

This question assesses your technical expertise in wireless technologies, which is essential for the role.

How to Answer

Detail your experience with Wi-Fi protocols, including any specific projects where you implemented them. Mention your understanding of 802.11 standards and any challenges you faced.

Example

“I have developed several applications that utilize Wi-Fi protocols, specifically 802.11. In one project, I implemented a Wi-Fi communication module for a medical device, ensuring it met the necessary standards for reliability and security. I also conducted extensive testing to troubleshoot connectivity issues, which improved the overall user experience.”

Behavioral Questions

1. Describe a challenging project you worked on and how you overcame the obstacles.

This question evaluates your problem-solving skills and resilience.

How to Answer

Choose a specific project, outline the challenges faced, and explain the steps you took to overcome them. Highlight teamwork and communication as key factors.

Example

“In a recent project, we faced significant delays due to unexpected technical challenges. I organized daily stand-up meetings to ensure everyone was aligned and encouraged open communication. By reallocating resources and prioritizing critical tasks, we managed to complete the project on time.”

2. How do you handle stress and tight deadlines?

This question assesses your ability to work under pressure, which is common in fast-paced environments.

How to Answer

Discuss your strategies for managing stress, such as prioritization, time management, and seeking support from colleagues.

Example

“I handle stress by breaking down tasks into manageable parts and setting clear priorities. When facing tight deadlines, I communicate with my team to ensure we’re all on the same page and can support each other. I also take short breaks to recharge, which helps maintain my focus.”

3. Can you give an example of how you worked effectively within a team?

This question evaluates your teamwork and collaboration skills.

How to Answer

Provide a specific example that highlights your role in the team, how you contributed, and the outcome of the collaboration.

Example

“In a cross-functional team project, I collaborated with hardware engineers to develop a new medical device. I facilitated regular meetings to discuss progress and challenges, ensuring everyone’s input was valued. This collaboration led to a successful product launch that exceeded our performance targets.”

4. What motivates you to work in the medical technology field?

This question assesses your passion and commitment to the industry.

How to Answer

Share your personal motivations, such as a desire to make a difference in people's lives or a fascination with technology.

Example

“I am motivated by the opportunity to create technology that directly impacts patient care. Knowing that my work can improve lives and contribute to advancements in healthcare drives my passion for software engineering in this field.”

5. How do you approach learning new technologies or programming languages?

This question evaluates your willingness to grow and adapt in a rapidly changing field.

How to Answer

Discuss your learning strategies, such as online courses, hands-on projects, or collaboration with peers.

Example

“I approach learning new technologies by first identifying the most relevant resources, such as online courses or documentation. I then apply what I learn through small projects or by collaborating with colleagues who have expertise in that area. This hands-on approach helps solidify my understanding and keeps me engaged.”