Epiq Data Engineer Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

Epiq is a global leader in legal services, providing technology and managed services that help clients navigate complex legal matters.

As a Data Engineer at Epiq, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining data pipelines and architectures that support business intelligence and analytics initiatives. This role requires a strong understanding of database management, cloud technologies, and data warehousing concepts. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including data scientists and analysts, to ensure data integrity and availability for various projects. Key responsibilities may include optimizing ETL processes, implementing data quality checks, and collaborating on data governance strategies. The ideal candidate should possess strong programming skills, particularly in languages such as Python or SQL, along with experience in data modeling and big data technologies. A proactive problem solver who aligns with Epiq's commitment to delivering exceptional service and efficiency will excel in this role.

This guide will equip you with insights into the expectations and skills required for the Data Engineer position at Epiq, helping you prepare effectively for your interview.

The interview process for a Data Engineer position at Epiq is designed to be efficient and thorough, ensuring that candidates are well-suited for the role while also providing a positive experience. The process typically unfolds in several key stages:

1. Initial Screening

The process begins with an initial phone screening, usually conducted by a recruiter. This call lasts around 15 to 30 minutes and focuses on basic recruiting questions, including your background, desired salary, and general fit for the company culture. The recruiter will also provide an overview of the position and the expectations associated with it.

2. Technical and Behavioral Interviews

Following the initial screening, candidates typically participate in one or more technical and behavioral interviews. These interviews may be conducted via video conferencing platforms like Teams or Zoom. During this stage, you will meet with various team members, including managers and peers, who will assess your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and past experiences. Expect to discuss specific projects you've worked on, challenges you've faced, and how your skills align with the requirements of the role.

3. In-Person or Final Interviews

For candidates who progress further, there may be an in-person interview or a final round of video interviews. This stage often involves multiple interviewers and can last several hours. Here, you will delve deeper into your technical expertise, including your experience with relevant tools and technologies, as well as your approach to data engineering challenges. Behavioral questions will also be prominent, allowing interviewers to gauge your interpersonal skills and cultural fit within the team.

4. Offer and Follow-Up

After the final interviews, candidates can expect a relatively quick turnaround for feedback and potential offers. The communication during this stage is generally prompt, with HR reaching out to discuss the offer details and next steps. However, it’s important to note that some candidates have reported delays in communication, so following up may be necessary.

As you prepare for your interviews, consider the types of questions that may arise during the process, particularly those that explore your technical knowledge and past experiences.

Here are some tips to help you excel in your interview.

Understand the Interview Process

Epiq's interview process tends to be efficient and straightforward, often involving multiple rounds of interviews, including initial screenings with HR and subsequent discussions with team members or managers. Familiarize yourself with this structure and be prepared for both phone and video interviews. Given the feedback from previous candidates, it’s essential to be ready for a conversational style, where interviewers may ask about your background and how it relates to the role.

Prepare for Behavioral Questions

Expect a significant focus on behavioral questions that assess how you handle challenges and work within a team. Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving skills, adaptability, and ability to work under pressure. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses, ensuring you convey not just what you did, but the impact of your actions.

Showcase Your Technical Skills

As a Data Engineer, you will likely be asked about your technical expertise, particularly in areas relevant to Epiq's operations. Brush up on your knowledge of data processing, ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes, and any specific tools or languages mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss your experience with large data sets and any relevant projects you've worked on, as this will demonstrate your capability to handle the technical demands of the role.

Be Ready to Discuss Company Fit

Epiq values candidates who align with their company culture. Be prepared to articulate why you want to work at Epiq and how your values align with theirs. Research the company’s mission and recent initiatives, and think about how your skills and experiences can contribute to their goals. This will not only show your interest in the role but also your commitment to being a part of their team.

Ask Insightful Questions

During your interviews, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions that reflect your interest in the role and the company. Inquire about the team dynamics, the challenges they face, and how success is measured in the position you’re applying for. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if Epiq is the right fit for you.

Follow Up Professionally

After your interviews, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview. This is a chance to reiterate your interest in the position and briefly mention any key points you may want to emphasize again. Given the feedback about communication from candidates, a follow-up can help you stand out positively.

By preparing thoroughly and approaching the interview with confidence and authenticity, you can make a strong impression and increase your chances of success at Epiq. Good luck!

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Data Engineer interview at Epiq. The interview process will likely assess your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and how well you can communicate your experiences and knowledge. Be prepared to discuss your background, relevant projects, and how your skills align with the company's needs.

Technical Skills

1. What is your experience with data modeling and ETL processes?

Epiq will want to understand your familiarity with data modeling techniques and your experience in designing and implementing ETL processes.

How to Answer

Discuss specific projects where you have designed data models and implemented ETL processes. Highlight the tools and technologies you used and the impact of your work.

Example

“In my previous role, I designed a data model for a customer analytics platform that improved data retrieval times by 30%. I utilized tools like Apache NiFi for ETL processes, ensuring data integrity and accuracy throughout the pipeline.”

2. Can you explain the differences between SQL and NoSQL databases?

Understanding the distinctions between these database types is crucial for a Data Engineer.

How to Answer

Provide a clear comparison of SQL and NoSQL databases, mentioning their use cases and advantages.

Example

“SQL databases are relational and use structured query language for defining and manipulating data, making them ideal for complex queries. In contrast, NoSQL databases are non-relational and can handle unstructured data, which is beneficial for applications requiring scalability and flexibility, such as real-time analytics.”

3. Describe a challenging data pipeline you built. What were the challenges, and how did you overcome them?

This question assesses your problem-solving skills and technical expertise.

How to Answer

Detail a specific project, the challenges faced, and the solutions you implemented to overcome those challenges.

Example

“I built a data pipeline for processing large volumes of log data from multiple sources. The main challenge was ensuring data consistency. I implemented a robust error-handling mechanism and used Apache Kafka for real-time data streaming, which significantly improved the reliability of the pipeline.”

4. How do you ensure data quality in your projects?

Data quality is critical in data engineering, and Epiq will want to know your approach.

How to Answer

Discuss the methods and tools you use to maintain data quality throughout the data lifecycle.

Example

“I implement data validation checks at various stages of the ETL process, using tools like Great Expectations to automate testing. Additionally, I conduct regular audits and monitor data quality metrics to ensure ongoing accuracy and reliability.”

5. What programming languages are you proficient in, and how have you used them in your projects?

Epiq will be interested in your programming skills and their application in data engineering tasks.

How to Answer

Mention the programming languages you are skilled in and provide examples of how you have used them in your work.

Example

“I am proficient in Python and Java. In my last project, I used Python for data manipulation and analysis, leveraging libraries like Pandas and NumPy. I also developed a Java-based application for data ingestion that streamlined our data processing workflow.”

Behavioral Questions

1. Describe a time when you had to work under pressure to meet a deadline.

This question evaluates your ability to handle stress and manage time effectively.

How to Answer

Share a specific instance where you successfully met a tight deadline, focusing on your approach and the outcome.

Example

“During a critical project, we faced a tight deadline due to unexpected changes in requirements. I prioritized tasks, delegated responsibilities, and worked extra hours to ensure we delivered the project on time, which ultimately led to positive feedback from the client.”

2. How do you handle conflicts within a team?

Epiq values collaboration, so they will want to know how you manage interpersonal challenges.

How to Answer

Discuss your approach to conflict resolution, emphasizing communication and collaboration.

Example

“When conflicts arise, I believe in addressing them directly and openly. I encourage team members to express their concerns and facilitate a discussion to find common ground. This approach has helped us resolve issues quickly and maintain a positive team dynamic.”

3. What motivates you to work in data engineering?

Understanding your motivation can help Epiq assess your fit within the company culture.

How to Answer

Share your passion for data engineering and what aspects of the role excite you the most.

Example

“I am motivated by the challenge of transforming raw data into actionable insights. The ability to solve complex problems and contribute to data-driven decision-making is what excites me about working in data engineering.”

4. Tell me about a time you had to learn a new technology quickly.

This question assesses your adaptability and willingness to learn.

How to Answer

Provide an example of a situation where you had to quickly acquire new skills or knowledge and how you approached it.

Example

“When I was tasked with implementing a new data visualization tool, I dedicated time to online courses and hands-on practice. Within a week, I was able to create insightful dashboards that helped our team make informed decisions.”

5. Why do you want to work at Epiq?

This question gauges your interest in the company and its mission.

How to Answer

Express your enthusiasm for Epiq’s values, culture, and the specific role you are applying for.

Example

“I admire Epiq’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the legal industry. I believe my skills in data engineering can contribute to enhancing your data solutions, and I am excited about the opportunity to work with a talented team that values collaboration and growth.”