I applied online. The process took 3 weeks. I interviewed at ATC Automation (Cookeville, TN) in Feb 2021
Interview
The interview process was shorter and straightforward. I interviewed with the position manager, and the project team, as well as HR. The interview was straightforward and based on skills and capabilities. Then there was a tour of the facilities and introductions with other employees to get a feel for the environment.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Describe an engineering challenge that you overcame.
I applied online. The process took 4 weeks. I interviewed at ATC Automation in May 2025
Interview
The interview process started with a first round call where I was asked a few theoretical mechanical questions. After that, I was asked to complete both a behavioral and an aptitude test.
For the second round, I was invited to give a 30-minute technical presentation tailored to the role.
What was frustrating was that the day after my second interview, I received an automated email stating the position had been closed and that they were no longer hiring, rather than hearing directly from the person I had been communicating with. It felt impersonal after such a significant investment of time and preparation.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
They showed me a two part component with tabs that required twisting to lock in place. I was asked to describe how I would design an automated machine to assemble the two parts, including where each piece would be held, how force would be applied, and how to avoid damaging the parts during assembly.
I applied in-person. I interviewed at ATC Automation (Cookeville, TN) in Aug 2024
Interview
Process was somewhat straightforward but appeared to be poorly planned, as there were critical team members that were not involved or available for the interview- this was quite the let-down considering I took time off and wasted a holiday weekend to travel to their location. Communication & timeliness need to improve just to suck- HR doesn't seem to have much of a clue. Communication from their end completely stopped within the week of my interview, and I had to reach out several times in order to receive any info- both on acquired expenses and my status within the process- and was completely ghosted on status. I can confidently say that I checked-off probably 8/10 qualifications they are looking for to fill this position, and was led to believe there would be the salary to match, but they seem to want a "drop-in" employee, who requires bare minimum investment & training... very unrealistic requirements in such a niche industry. Needless to say, the listing is still posted, the salary range was cut drastically to below market average, and I still have no clue where I stand in this process, nor did I receive any requested feedback on how I did or could better improve upon.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Asked a lot about my current position, concept development and full-scale station & system design.