A.P. Moller - Maersk Software Engineer Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

A.P. Moller - Maersk is a global leader in container logistics, committed to transforming supply chains through innovative technology solutions and seamless integration of services.

The role of a Software Engineer at Maersk involves designing and developing cutting-edge software solutions that enhance the customer experience within logistics and supply chain operations. Key responsibilities include collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver exceptional logistics solutions, driving the adoption of Site Reliability principles, and actively participating in the implementation of large-scale logistics projects. The ideal candidate will have substantial hands-on experience with warehouse management systems (WMS), particularly in environments utilizing Manhattan or other Tier 1 WMS platforms. Proficiency in cloud technologies, especially Azure, is crucial, along with a strong understanding of scalable, resilient, and distributed systems.

Successful candidates will possess excellent communication skills, a passion for continuous learning, and a proactive approach to problem-solving in fast-paced settings. They should be capable of navigating complex situations and motivated by goal achievement and innovation. A background in supply chain management and an understanding of automated digital journeys will provide a significant advantage.

This guide will help you prepare effectively for your software engineering interview at Maersk by equipping you with insights into the role's requirements, expectations, and the company's focus on integrating technology into logistics.

The interview process for a Software Engineer at A.P. Moller - Maersk is structured and thorough, reflecting the company's commitment to finding the right talent for their technology-driven initiatives. The process typically unfolds in several key stages:

1. Initial Screening

The first step is an initial screening call with a recruiter, which usually lasts about 30 minutes. During this conversation, the recruiter will discuss the role, the company culture, and your background. They will assess your fit for the position and gauge your interest in the company’s mission to transform container logistics.

2. Technical Assessment

Following the initial screening, candidates are often required to complete a technical assessment. This may include a take-home coding challenge or an online test that evaluates your programming skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of algorithms. The assessment is designed to test your proficiency in relevant technologies, such as Python, SQL, and cloud technologies, as well as your ability to apply software engineering principles to real-world scenarios.

3. Technical Interviews

Candidates who pass the technical assessment will typically go through one or more technical interviews. These interviews are conducted by team members or technical leads and focus on your coding skills, system design, and understanding of warehouse management systems. Expect questions that require you to demonstrate your knowledge of algorithms, data structures, and possibly cloud architecture. You may also be asked to solve coding problems in real-time, often using a collaborative coding platform.

4. Managerial and Behavioral Interviews

After the technical interviews, candidates may have a managerial interview with a hiring manager or team lead. This round assesses your soft skills, leadership potential, and cultural fit within the team. Questions may revolve around your previous experiences, how you handle challenges, and your approach to collaboration and stakeholder management. Behavioral questions are common, so be prepared to discuss specific situations where you demonstrated key competencies.

5. Final HR Interview

The final stage typically involves an HR interview, where you will discuss your salary expectations, benefits, and any remaining questions about the role or company. This is also an opportunity for you to express your enthusiasm for the position and clarify any details about the company culture or expectations.

Throughout the process, candidates should be prepared for a mix of technical and non-technical questions, as well as assessments that evaluate both hard and soft skills.

Now, let’s delve into the specific interview questions that candidates have encountered during their interviews at A.P. Moller - Maersk.

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Software Engineer interview at A.P. Moller - Maersk. The interview process will likely focus on your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of logistics and supply chain management. Be prepared to discuss your experience with software development, cloud technologies, and your approach to collaboration and stakeholder management.

Technical Skills

1. Can you explain the differences between various warehouse management systems (WMS) you have worked with?

Understanding the nuances of different WMS is crucial for this role, as it directly impacts logistics efficiency.

How to Answer

Discuss your hands-on experience with specific WMS platforms, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses in the context of logistics operations.

Example

“I have worked extensively with Manhattan WMS and SAP EWM. Manhattan excels in real-time inventory tracking, while SAP offers robust integration capabilities with other enterprise systems. My experience in both has allowed me to optimize warehouse operations by leveraging their unique features.”

2. Describe a challenging technical problem you faced in a previous project and how you resolved it.

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

How to Answer

Choose a specific example that showcases your analytical skills and ability to implement effective solutions under pressure.

Example

“In a previous project, we faced significant latency issues with our order processing system. I conducted a thorough analysis and identified bottlenecks in our database queries. By optimizing the SQL queries and implementing caching strategies, we reduced processing time by 40%.”

3. How do you ensure the reliability and scalability of the systems you develop?

Reliability and scalability are key components of Maersk's technology strategy.

How to Answer

Discuss your experience with Site Reliability Engineering (SRE) principles and how you apply them in your work.

Example

“I prioritize reliability by implementing automated testing and continuous integration practices. For scalability, I design systems with microservices architecture, allowing us to scale individual components based on demand without affecting the entire system.”

4. What cloud technologies are you familiar with, and how have you used them in your projects?

Cloud technologies are integral to modern software development, especially in logistics.

How to Answer

Mention specific cloud platforms and services you have used, along with examples of how they improved project outcomes.

Example

“I have worked with Azure and AWS, utilizing services like Azure Functions for serverless computing and AWS S3 for scalable storage solutions. In a recent project, we migrated our application to Azure, which improved our deployment speed and reduced costs by 30%.”

5. Can you explain the concept of APIs and their importance in system integration?

APIs are crucial for integrating various systems within logistics.

How to Answer

Provide a clear definition of APIs and discuss their role in enabling seamless communication between different software systems.

Example

“APIs, or Application Programming Interfaces, allow different software systems to communicate with each other. In logistics, APIs enable real-time data exchange between our WMS and transportation management systems, improving visibility and efficiency across the supply chain.”

Behavioral and Situational Questions

1. How do you handle conflicts with team members or stakeholders?

Conflict resolution is essential in collaborative environments.

How to Answer

Share a specific example of a conflict you managed, focusing on your communication and negotiation skills.

Example

“In a previous project, a disagreement arose regarding the project timeline. I facilitated a meeting where each party could express their concerns. By actively listening and finding common ground, we adjusted the timeline to accommodate everyone’s needs, ultimately leading to a successful project delivery.”

2. Describe a time when you had to learn a new technology quickly. How did you approach it?

This question assesses your adaptability and willingness to learn.

How to Answer

Discuss your learning strategies and how you applied the new technology in a practical context.

Example

“When I needed to learn Docker for a project, I dedicated time to online courses and hands-on practice. I set up a local environment and created sample applications to understand containerization better. This proactive approach allowed me to implement Docker effectively in our deployment pipeline.”

3. How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple projects?

Effective prioritization is key in fast-paced environments.

How to Answer

Explain your prioritization framework and how you ensure deadlines are met without compromising quality.

Example

“I use a combination of the Eisenhower Matrix and Agile methodologies to prioritize tasks. I assess urgency and importance, focusing on high-impact tasks first. Regular stand-up meetings with my team also help us align on priorities and adjust as needed.”

4. Can you give an example of how you influenced a decision made by top management?

This question evaluates your ability to communicate effectively with leadership.

How to Answer

Share a specific instance where your input led to a significant decision, emphasizing your communication skills and understanding of business needs.

Example

“During a project review, I presented data showing the potential ROI of investing in a new logistics software. By clearly articulating the benefits and backing it with data, I was able to influence management to allocate budget for the project, which ultimately improved our operational efficiency.”

5. What motivates you to work in the logistics and supply chain industry?

Understanding your motivation can help assess cultural fit.

How to Answer

Share your passion for logistics and how it aligns with your career goals.

Example

“I am motivated by the challenge of optimizing complex systems and improving efficiency. The logistics industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, which excites me. I find fulfillment in contributing to solutions that enhance customer experiences and streamline operations.”