Cyber Security is the cornerstone of Google’s products and services. At Google, teams like “Project Zero” focus on finding and fixing vulnerabilities to make the web a safe space for all users. One can imagine the catastrophic effects a cyber attack can have on a platform like Google, which has millions of users worldwide.
This makes the role of a Security Engineer at Google critical, bearing a very high degree of responsibility and accountability. So when Google sets out to hire Cyber Security Engineers, you can be sure they only take on the sharpest and brightest minds in the field. This is why the Cyber Security interview at Google is challenging to get through.
If you’re preparing for a tech interview, check out our technical interview checklist, interview questions page, and salary negotiation e-book to get interview-ready! Also, read How Hard Is It to Get a Job at Google? and How to Get Software Engineering Jobs at Google for specific insights and guidance on Google tech interviews.
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In this article, we’ll take you through the Google Cyber Security Engineer Interview process to help you get started:
To qualify for the role of Cyber Security Software Engineer at Google, you will have to meet the following minimum requirements:
Preferred qualifications:
In addition, Google seeks software engineers who have the ability to:
Google’s Cyber Security Engineer Interview process is similar to the Google Software Engineer interview process, but with a special focus on Network Security skills and experience.
There are three main stages to the Google Cyber Security interview process:
The interview process can last for 6-8 weeks, on average, from the time your application is accepted.
You can apply to Google directly or through a recruiter. Ensure your resume is up-to-date and your cover letter is tailored to the position of Cyber Security Engineer at Google. An employee referral can help ensure your application gets noticed by a recruiter.
Recommended Reading: Leverage LinkedIn to Unlock FAANG Interviews
If your application is shortlisted, you’ll receive a call from a recruiter who will try to get to know you better and assess which team will be the best fit for you.
Once you get past the HR or phone screen, the recruiter will schedule your next interview, which will involve a coding assessment.
At the coding interview, you’ll be asked questions on data structures and algorithms. You’ll be required to solve problems using a remote collaborative editor.
Questions asked at the technical screen are usually similar to questions asked at the Google Software Engineer interview.
Check out this coding assessment cheat sheet to save time when preparing for the coding interview.
Onsite interviews are typically held on-campus at the Google office. The onsite stage of the interview process comprises up to 6 rounds of face-to-face interviews.
Each interview round lasts for about 45-60 minutes.
The onsite stage of the Google Cyber Security hiring process comprises the following interviews:
In this interview, you’ll be asked to design a system focusing on security risk evaluation and assessment. Here, you’ll be evaluated on your problem-solving approach.
These interviews are designed to elicit detailed information about your work experience and your motivation for the prospective role. Interviewers will also assess how well your values align with company values.
Behavioral questions are commonly asked at all interviews, irrespective of your prospective role or company.
Check out this behavioral interview guide to master the art of answering behavioral questions effectively.
The first step of your Cyber Security tech interview prep should be to make a study plan. If you don’t know where to start, you can avail the expert guidance of FAANG hiring managers at Interview Kickstart.
Following are the Important Topics for Your Google Cyber Security Interview Prep:
1. Coding Topics:
3. Behavioral:
4. Cyber Security:
To sharpen your interview skills and calm your nerves, you should practice at least 30 mock interviews before appearing for your cyber security interview at Google.
You can practice mock interviews for your Google Cyber Security interview with peers, or even better, with hiring managers and experts from Google itself at Interview Kickstart.
Whether you wish to become a FAANG+ Cyber Security Engineer, a Software Developer, or an Engineering Manager, our mentors and coaches at IK are here to guide you through your preparation for the interview process. Interview Kickstart is where you’ll find everything you need to know about cracking Google’s tech interview process.
Pro Tip: Consider completing the Google Cyber Security course for an added advantage.
Given below are sample questions you can expect at Google’s Cyber Security interview.
Check out our complete list of system design questions and technical questions with solutions to nail your Google Cyber Security Engineer interview prep.
1. How much do Cyber Security engineers make at Google?
In the United States, the average salary for a Cyber Security Engineer is $100,182 per year, along with a host of benefits, including stock options, bonuses, healthcare, paid vacations, and 401k plans.
2. How can I become a Security Engineer at Google?
To become a Security Engineer at Google, you must first meet the minimum requirements, as outlined below, to qualify for the role:
You can apply for a Security Engineer position at Google directly or through a recruiter.
3. How many times can I apply for a job at Google?
At Google, you can apply for a maximum of three positions within a 30-day window. However, you’ll have to wait 90 days before re-applying for the same job. It has been observed at Google that candidates who reapply for technical roles are more likely to succeed if they do so after gaining additional experience of 12 - 18 months.
If you want to get started with your interview prep and wish to give it your best shot, register for Interview Kickstart’s FREE webinar to understand the best way to prepare for tech interviews at the biggest companies.
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