Lockton Companies Software Engineer Interview Guide

Getting ready for a Software Engineer interview at Lockton Companies? The Lockton Companies Software Engineer interview process typically spans a diverse set of question topics and evaluates skills in areas like system design, data structures and algorithms, secure and scalable architecture, and effective technical communication. Excelling in this interview requires not only technical expertise but also the ability to translate complex solutions into clear, actionable insights for both technical and non-technical stakeholders—reflecting Lockton’s commitment to delivering innovative, reliable solutions in the risk management and insurance industry.

In preparing for the interview, you should:

• Understand the core skills necessary for Software Engineer positions at Lockton Companies.
• Gain insights into Lockton Companies’ Software Engineer interview structure and process.
• Practice real Lockton Companies Software Engineer interview questions to sharpen your performance.

At Interview Query, we regularly analyze interview experience data shared by candidates. This guide uses that data to provide an overview of the Lockton Companies Software Engineer interview process, along with sample questions and preparation tips tailored to help you succeed.

Lockton Companies is the world’s largest privately held, independent insurance brokerage, providing risk management, insurance, and employee benefits consulting services to over 48,000 clients globally. Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, Lockton employs more than 5,600 professionals dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that help businesses manage risk and improve performance. The company’s entrepreneurial culture and commitment to client service have earned it recognition as a “Best Place to Work in Insurance” for six consecutive years. As a Software Engineer at Lockton, you will contribute to building technology solutions that support the company’s mission of delivering exceptional client outcomes in the insurance and risk management industry.

As a Software Engineer at Lockton Companies, you will design, develop, and maintain software solutions that support Lockton’s insurance and risk management services. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams—including business analysts, project managers, and QA specialists—to deliver high-quality applications tailored to client and internal needs. Core responsibilities include writing clean, efficient code, troubleshooting technical issues, and contributing to system architecture improvements. This role is vital in enhancing operational efficiency, enabling innovative digital solutions, and supporting Lockton’s commitment to providing exceptional client service.

2.1 Stage 1: Application & Resume Review

The process begins with a careful evaluation of your application materials, focusing on your experience with software engineering fundamentals, system design, and your proficiency in relevant programming languages. The review is typically conducted by the HR team and software engineering leadership, who look for evidence of your ability to build scalable, secure, and maintainable systems, as well as your experience in collaborating with cross-functional teams. To prepare, ensure your resume demonstrates clear impact in previous roles, highlights technical skills such as distributed systems, API development, and data pipeline design, and quantifies your achievements.

2.2 Stage 2: Recruiter Screen

Next, you’ll have an initial conversation with a recruiter, usually lasting 30 minutes. This stage is designed to assess your communication skills, motivation for applying to Lockton Companies, and your alignment with the company’s values and culture. Expect questions about your professional background, key projects, and why you are interested in joining Lockton. Preparation should include a succinct narrative of your career path, enthusiasm for the company’s mission, and examples of your adaptability and collaborative approach.

2.3 Stage 3: Technical/Case/Skills Round

This round involves one or more interviews with senior engineers or technical leads, focusing on your problem-solving abilities, coding proficiency, and understanding of software engineering principles. You may be asked to design systems such as secure messaging platforms, scalable databases, or data warehouses, implement algorithms (e.g., one-hot encoding, logistic regression from scratch), and discuss technical trade-offs. Expect to demonstrate your knowledge of distributed authentication models, API design, data cleaning, and system integration. Preparation should include practicing coding challenges, reviewing system design concepts, and being ready to articulate your approach to building robust, maintainable solutions in real-world scenarios.

2.4 Stage 4: Behavioral Interview

In this stage, you’ll meet with engineering managers or team leads to discuss your approach to teamwork, conflict resolution, and professional growth. The focus is on how you handle challenges, communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, and contribute to a positive team environment. You may be asked to share stories of overcoming technical debt, presenting data-driven insights to diverse audiences, and making data accessible. To prepare, reflect on past experiences where you demonstrated leadership, empathy, and adaptability, and be ready to discuss both strengths and areas for improvement.

2.5 Stage 5: Final/Onsite Round

The final stage typically consists of multiple interviews with technical and cross-functional stakeholders, including software engineers, product managers, and sometimes senior leadership. This round assesses your end-to-end engineering capabilities, from system architecture and technical deep-dives to your ability to collaborate across departments. Expect scenario-based discussions where you’ll design systems (e.g., parking application, digital classroom, sales dashboard), justify technical decisions, and address ethical considerations in technology. Preparation should involve reviewing recent projects, practicing clear technical communication, and demonstrating your strategic thinking in system and product design.

2.6 Stage 6: Offer & Negotiation

Once you successfully complete the interviews, you’ll engage with the recruiter or HR representative to discuss compensation, benefits, and onboarding logistics. This step is typically straightforward and involves negotiation based on your experience and market benchmarks.

2.7 Average Timeline

The Lockton Companies Software Engineer interview process generally spans 3-5 weeks from application to offer. Fast-track candidates with highly relevant experience and clear technical expertise may progress through the stages in as little as 2-3 weeks, while the standard pace allows for a week or more between each round to accommodate scheduling and feedback. Onsite or final rounds may be consolidated into a single day or spread out over several sessions, depending on team availability and your schedule.

Now, let’s explore the types of interview questions you can expect throughout the process.

3.1 System Design & Architecture

Expect questions on designing scalable, reliable, and secure systems. Focus on how you approach requirements gathering, system modularity, and trade-offs between performance and maintainability.

3.1.1 Design the system supporting an application for a parking system.
Outline the main entities, data flow, and user interactions. Discuss scalability, fault tolerance, and how you would handle real-time updates.

3.1.2 Design a secure and scalable messaging system for a financial institution.
Emphasize security protocols, encryption, and user authentication. Explain your choices for scalability and reliability.

3.1.3 Designing a pipeline for ingesting media to built-in search within LinkedIn
Describe how you’d structure the ingestion, indexing, and retrieval processes. Address data consistency, search performance, and extensibility.

3.1.4 System design for a digital classroom service.
Break down the core features, user roles, and data storage. Discuss real-time collaboration and how you’d ensure data privacy.

3.1.5 Design a data warehouse for a new online retailer
Explain your approach to schema design, ETL pipelines, and handling large-scale transactions. Focus on query optimization and data integrity.

3.2 Data Engineering & Scalability

These questions assess your experience with large datasets, optimizing performance, and building robust data pipelines. Highlight your strategies for efficiency and reliability.

3.2.1 Determine the requirements for designing a database system to store payment APIs
Detail your approach to schema design, transaction management, and security. Address how you’d support high availability and scalability.

3.2.2 Prioritized debt reduction, process improvement, and a focus on maintainability for fintech efficiency
Discuss how you identify technical debt, prioritize fixes, and balance new development with refactoring.

3.2.3 Modifying a billion rows
Describe strategies to efficiently update massive datasets, such as batching, indexing, and minimizing downtime.

3.2.4 Design a feature store for credit risk ML models and integrate it with SageMaker.
Explain how you’d architect the feature store, ensure data versioning, and optimize for real-time scoring.

3.3 Machine Learning & Algorithms

Here, you’ll be tested on your understanding of ML models, algorithmic problem-solving, and practical implementations. Be ready to discuss both theory and application.

3.3.1 Implement logistic regression from scratch in code
Walk through the algorithm, focusing on the mathematical foundations, optimization, and edge cases.

3.3.2 A logical proof sketch outlining why the k-Means algorithm is guaranteed to converge
Present a concise proof, referencing the iterative minimization of the cost function and finite data partitions.

3.3.3 Identify requirements for a machine learning model that predicts subway transit
Discuss feature selection, model evaluation, and deployment considerations for real-time prediction.

3.3.4 Write a function to get a sample from a Bernoulli trial.
Explain the mathematical logic and how you’d implement randomness and reproducibility.

3.3.5 Implement one-hot encoding algorithmically.
Describe the transformation process and its importance for categorical data in ML models.

3.4 Data Cleaning & Quality

You’ll need to demonstrate your ability to handle messy data, ensure data integrity, and communicate uncertainty. Focus on real-world approaches and best practices.

3.4.1 Describing a real-world data cleaning and organization project
Share your process for profiling, cleaning, and validating data. Emphasize reproducibility and documentation.

3.4.2 Challenges of specific student test score layouts, recommended formatting changes for enhanced analysis, and common issues found in "messy" datasets.
Discuss strategies for standardizing formats and handling inconsistencies.

3.4.3 Write a function that splits the data into two lists, one for training and one for testing.
Explain your approach to randomization and ensuring representative splits.

3.4.4 Write a function to return the names and ids for ids that we haven't scraped yet.
Describe how you’d efficiently identify missing data and avoid duplication.

3.5 Communication & Stakeholder Management

These questions test your ability to translate technical insights for non-technical audiences and collaborate across teams. Highlight clarity, adaptability, and business impact.

3.5.1 How to present complex data insights with clarity and adaptability tailored to a specific audience
Discuss structuring presentations, using visualizations, and adjusting language for different stakeholders.

3.5.2 Demystifying data for non-technical users through visualization and clear communication
Share techniques for simplifying data and making insights actionable.

3.5.3 Making data-driven insights actionable for those without technical expertise
Describe how you break down concepts and use analogies to foster understanding.

3.5.4 How would you answer when an Interviewer asks why you applied to their company?
Highlight your motivation and alignment with company values and mission.

3.5.5 What do you tell an interviewer when they ask you what your strengths and weaknesses are?
Focus on relevant strengths and demonstrate self-awareness through thoughtful weaknesses.

3.6 Behavioral Questions

3.6.1 Tell me about a time you used data to make a decision.
Describe the context, your analysis, and the business impact. Emphasize how your recommendation was implemented and the measurable outcome.

3.6.2 Describe a challenging data project and how you handled it.
Share the technical and interpersonal hurdles you faced, your approach to problem-solving, and how you delivered results under pressure.

3.6.3 How do you handle unclear requirements or ambiguity?
Explain your process for clarifying objectives, communicating with stakeholders, and iterating on solutions as new information emerges.

3.6.4 Tell me about a time when your colleagues didn’t agree with your approach. What did you do to bring them into the conversation and address their concerns?
Highlight your communication skills, openness to feedback, and how you built consensus.

3.6.5 Talk about a time when you had trouble communicating with stakeholders. How were you able to overcome it?
Discuss strategies you used to bridge gaps in understanding and ensure alignment.

3.6.6 Describe a time you had to negotiate scope creep when two departments kept adding “just one more” request. How did you keep the project on track?
Show how you set boundaries, prioritized tasks, and communicated trade-offs to stakeholders.

3.6.7 When leadership demanded a quicker deadline than you felt was realistic, what steps did you take to reset expectations while still showing progress?
Explain your negotiation tactics, incremental delivery, and transparency in project updates.

3.6.8 Tell me about a situation where you had to influence stakeholders without formal authority to adopt a data-driven recommendation.
Demonstrate your ability to build trust, present compelling evidence, and drive alignment.

3.6.9 Describe how you prioritized backlog items when multiple executives marked their requests as “high priority.”
Share your framework for prioritization and how you communicated decisions to leadership.

3.6.10 Give an example of automating recurrent data-quality checks so the same dirty-data crisis doesn’t happen again.
Detail your approach to automation, the tools used, and the long-term impact on team efficiency.

4.1 Company-specific tips:

Gain a strong understanding of Lockton Companies’ core business in insurance and risk management. Review how technology is used to deliver innovative solutions for clients, such as digital platforms for policy management or analytics dashboards for risk assessment. This context will help you tailor your technical answers to demonstrate business impact.

Research Lockton’s values, especially their commitment to client service and entrepreneurial culture. Prepare to show how your engineering work can drive exceptional client outcomes, and be ready to share examples of projects where you improved customer experience or operational efficiency.

Stay informed about recent technological initiatives at Lockton, such as new digital tools, data-driven decision-making, or improvements in cybersecurity and compliance. Reference these in your interview to show your enthusiasm for contributing to their ongoing innovation.

4.2 Role-specific tips:

4.2.1 Master system design for secure, scalable insurance applications.
Practice designing systems that could support Lockton’s core offerings, such as digital policy management, secure messaging, or scalable data warehouses. Focus on requirements gathering, modular architecture, and trade-offs between performance and maintainability. Be ready to discuss encryption, distributed authentication, and compliance with data privacy regulations.

4.2.2 Demonstrate strong coding and algorithmic skills with practical business context.
Expect to solve problems involving data structures, algorithms, and real-world scenarios like payment API databases or modifying massive datasets. Show your ability to write clean, efficient code and explain how your technical choices support reliability and scalability in insurance solutions.

4.2.3 Highlight experience in data engineering and pipeline optimization.
Be prepared to discuss building robust data pipelines, optimizing performance, and ensuring data integrity for large-scale insurance operations. Share specific strategies for handling big data, such as batching updates, indexing, and minimizing downtime, and relate them to Lockton’s need for reliable analytics.

4.2.4 Show expertise in machine learning and practical implementation.
Review ML concepts such as logistic regression, one-hot encoding, and feature store architecture. Be ready to discuss how you would build and deploy models for use cases like credit risk scoring or client segmentation, emphasizing reproducibility and integration with enterprise platforms.

4.2.5 Illustrate your approach to data cleaning and quality assurance.
Prepare examples of cleaning messy datasets, standardizing formats, and automating quality checks. Discuss how you ensure data integrity and reproducibility, which are essential for accurate risk analysis and decision-making at Lockton.

4.2.6 Communicate technical concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders.
Practice explaining complex technical ideas—such as system architecture or data-driven insights—in simple, actionable terms. Use visualizations, analogies, and structured presentations to make your solutions accessible to business partners and leadership.

4.2.7 Prepare behavioral stories that showcase teamwork, leadership, and adaptability.
Reflect on past experiences where you overcame technical debt, resolved conflicts, or drove consensus on engineering decisions. Be ready to discuss how you handle ambiguity, negotiate scope creep, and influence stakeholders without formal authority, all while keeping projects aligned with business goals.

4.2.8 Demonstrate your motivation and alignment with Lockton’s mission.
Articulate why you want to join Lockton Companies, referencing their values, culture, and commitment to innovation. Highlight how your skills and experience will help advance their mission of delivering exceptional client outcomes through technology.

5.1 How hard is the Lockton Companies Software Engineer interview?
The Lockton Companies Software Engineer interview is considered moderately challenging, especially for those with a solid foundation in system design, algorithms, and secure architecture. The process tests both your technical depth and your ability to communicate solutions clearly to diverse stakeholders. Candidates who can demonstrate practical experience in building scalable, reliable systems tailored to the insurance and risk management domain will stand out.

5.2 How many interview rounds does Lockton Companies have for Software Engineer?
Lockton Companies typically conducts 5-6 interview rounds for Software Engineer candidates. This includes an initial recruiter screen, one or more technical interviews, a behavioral interview, and a final onsite or virtual round with cross-functional team members. Each stage is designed to assess different aspects of your engineering and collaboration skills.

5.3 Does Lockton Companies ask for take-home assignments for Software Engineer?
Take-home assignments are occasionally part of the Lockton Companies Software Engineer interview process, especially for roles focused on practical coding or system design. These assignments may involve designing a system, solving a coding problem, or outlining an approach to a real-world business challenge. The goal is to evaluate your problem-solving process and attention to detail.

5.4 What skills are required for the Lockton Companies Software Engineer?
Key skills for Lockton Companies Software Engineers include proficiency in system design, data structures, algorithms, secure and scalable architecture, and technical communication. Experience with distributed systems, API development, data pipeline optimization, and compliance with data privacy regulations is highly valued. Adaptability, teamwork, and the ability to make technical concepts accessible to non-technical stakeholders are also essential.

5.5 How long does the Lockton Companies Software Engineer hiring process take?
The typical hiring process for Software Engineers at Lockton Companies spans 3-5 weeks from application to offer. Factors such as team availability, candidate schedules, and the complexity of interview rounds can influence the timeline. Fast-track candidates with highly relevant experience may progress more quickly.

5.6 What types of questions are asked in the Lockton Companies Software Engineer interview?
Expect a mix of technical and behavioral questions. Technical topics include system design, architecture for secure applications, data engineering, coding challenges, and machine learning fundamentals. Behavioral questions focus on teamwork, conflict resolution, communication skills, and your ability to drive consensus and deliver results in a collaborative environment.

5.7 Does Lockton Companies give feedback after the Software Engineer interview?
Lockton Companies generally provides feedback through their recruiters after each interview stage. While feedback may be high-level, it often covers areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. Candidates are encouraged to request feedback to better understand their performance and refine their approach.

5.8 What is the acceptance rate for Lockton Companies Software Engineer applicants?
Lockton Companies Software Engineer positions are competitive, with an estimated acceptance rate of 3-6% for qualified applicants. The company seeks candidates who can demonstrate both technical excellence and a strong alignment with Lockton’s values and mission.

5.9 Does Lockton Companies hire remote Software Engineer positions?
Yes, Lockton Companies offers remote Software Engineer positions, with some roles requiring occasional office visits for team collaboration or project kickoffs. Flexibility in work location reflects Lockton’s commitment to attracting top talent and supporting work-life balance.

• Related guides:
  • Lockton Companies interview questions
  • Software Engineer interview guide
  • Top software engineering interview tips

Ready to ace your Lockton Companies Software Engineer interview? It’s not just about knowing the technical skills—you need to think like a Lockton Companies Software Engineer, solve problems under pressure, and connect your expertise to real business impact. That’s where Interview Query comes in with company-specific learning paths, mock interviews, and curated question banks tailored toward roles at Lockton Companies and similar companies.

With resources like the Lockton Companies Software Engineer Interview Guide and our latest case study practice sets, you’ll get access to real interview questions, detailed walkthroughs, and coaching support designed to boost both your technical skills and domain intuition.

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