This interview took place in the spring of 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The interview was a two step process. The first step was the introduction call with the talent management department. The usual questions were asked: Experience, the whys, etc.
The second part was a video call with the hiring manager and other employees arranged like a panel format. The vibe was very relaxed as video calls were routine at the time because of work from home policies. The call lasted longer than an hour past the scheduled time. There was quite a lot to talk about and couldn't stretch out any questions and other topics across multiple blocks you typically experience in an all-day, on-site interview. Especially with participants from other departments that were on the call that had to be introduced and the topic of discussion shifted.
The takeaways from this:
-Test your connection to the video service (Skype, Bluejeans, Teams) in advance.
-Dress appropriately.
-Prep condensed answers to anticipated questions if calls are scheduled to be short to get through as much material as possible. Leaving time for the Q&A is more important than ever.
-Prioritize questions. Request the option for a follow up if more time to ask questions is needed.
This is an unusual time we're in right now. But hopefully this experience will help. Adapt and overcome.
I applied online. I interviewed at MilliporeSigma in Apr 2026
Interview
I applied online and was contacted by someone from talent acquisition for an initial screening.
At the end of the interview, I was told when I'm supposed to hear back and that I can send a follow up email if I don't get a response by then.
It has been over a week since the day I was supposed to get an answer and no updates, I even sent a follow up email but got no answer.
I applied online. I interviewed at MilliporeSigma (Bedford, MA) in Dec 2025
Interview
Phone screen seems to be done by AI (although it was not explicitly stated). Microsoft teams call with only audio, all questions were extremely scripted and impersonal. Some brief but noticeable gaps in between questions for scripting my answers to forward to hiring manager. Some questions made no sense, for example explain your experience with customers - for a lab scientist position, not mentioning a single word about facing customers in job description. Also salary range is a fraud. Listed range is apparently the state's market average. The budget for this job is 10K lower that the highest end listed in the posting. Absolutely disrespectful. Finally, no opportunity given to ask questions as a candidate. Horrible candidate experience overall.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
On scale 1 to 5 what what is your proficiency with chromatography techniques?
HR screen, HM screen, one on ones with key team members, 1 hour presentation, Director screen. Then offer. About 1 month to hear back after application and another month to receive offer.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Describe previous projects. Technical questions about common experimental techniques.