HR Phone Screening:
This was pretty straightforward, basic HR questions, getting to know you, your background, and your experience related to the role. Mostly behavioral stuff. Nothing crazy here, just be able to talk through your experience clearly and confidently.
Technical Interview:
This was done over Teams with the camera on, and an actual team member from the department applied for. There were a few behavioral questions, but it was mostly technical. I was asked to brief on an instrument approach plate and explain different symbols and numbers on charts. The best way to prepare is to treat this like an entry-level instrument checkride. If you’re solid there, you’ll be in a good spot.
In-Person Interview:
This is the one I wish I knew more about going in. It ended up being a 6-person panel (5 team leads + the manager), and it moves fast. Each person takes turns asking questions, and it’s basically everything from the first two rounds combined: HR, behavioral, basic technical, and then more in-depth technical and higher-level behavioral questions that actually make you think. I wasn’t fully prepared for how intense it was. Study for this like a full instrument checkride and then some, because I got asked things I didn’t even see on my actual FAA ride. After the interview, we had lunch with a few team members and took a tour of the campus.
I am located out of state, and the travel expenses were all covered. Rental car, hotel, food, rideshare fares, etc. I was even allowed to bring along a spouse who was also fully covered by Garmin. This was an overall great experience that I am very thankful to have even experienced, despite not being offered.
