Southwest Research Institute interview questions

The process usually begins with a 20-30 minute phone screening with a recruiter or HR representative. This is largely behavioral, focusing on your background, interest in the specific division, and basic logistical alignment

I had worked for another space science organization that was in partnership with SwRI. The partnership was for the development of a NASA research satellite. I interviewed for a remote position with SwRI with the recommendation of my employer at that time. I flew in San Antonio and began an all day interview process that consisted of many informal "get to know you" kinds of conversations. I had spent the previous two weeks getting ready for the interview from a technical standpoint, so when the conversation turned technical I was able to continue the conversation. Most of the interviewers seemed enthusiastic, including the hiring manager. The interview process ran aground when I was interviewed by the department lead... who had not reviewed my resume and was not aware I was coming until his subordinate - the hiring manager - poked his head in. I appreciate the professional courtesy he showed in interviewing me but I was clearly a distraction. I still left feeling optimistic since he seemed to indicate an offer would be forthcoming within a couple of weeks. Instead about a month passed before getting a "Dear John" letter saying I was not being given an offer. This was one of my greatest professional disappointments as I both felt strongly about the work and felt good about the interview process. Instead I got back on with the company that had laid me off three years earlier, with a nice pay raise.