Senior Data Scientist Interview Preparation Guide - FAANG Standards
Data Scientist
Senior
7 rounds
Updated 11/23/2025
This guide is based on general FAANG interview practices and may not reflect specific company procedures.
The Senior Data Scientist interview process at FAANG companies typically consists of 6-7 rounds spanning 4-6 weeks. The process rigorously evaluates technical depth across SQL, Python, Machine Learning, and Statistics; advanced problem-solving abilities; product and systems thinking; leadership capability; and cultural alignment. At the Senior level, candidates are expected to demonstrate ownership of complex projects, mentorship of junior team members, strategic technical thinking, and the ability to drive business impact through data science.
Interview Rounds
1
Recruiter Screening
30 min4 focus topicsbehavioral
2
Technical Phone Screen - SQL and Data Manipulation
60 min4 focus topicstechnical
3
Technical Interview - Advanced Analytics and Metrics Design
60 min4 focus topicstechnical
4
Technical Interview - Machine Learning and Statistical Reasoning
60 min5 focus topicstechnical
5
Product Sense and ML System Design Round
60 min4 focus topicssystem design
6
Behavioral Interview - Leadership, Collaboration, and Impact
60 min5 focus topicsbehavioral
7
Hiring Manager / Final Round
60 min4 focus topicsbehavioral
Additional Information