Xandr Software Engineer Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

Xandr is a technology company that specializes in advanced advertising solutions, harnessing data to optimize the advertising ecosystem for brands and publishers.

As a Software Engineer at Xandr, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications that drive performance and efficiency in the advertising space. Key responsibilities include collaborating with cross-functional teams to understand product requirements, implementing scalable code, and conducting rigorous testing to ensure high-quality software delivery. A strong emphasis is placed on algorithmic thinking and problem-solving, as you will tackle complex challenges related to data processing and system architecture.

To excel in this role, proficiency in algorithms and programming languages, particularly Python, is essential. Familiarity with database management and SQL will be beneficial, although less emphasized. Additionally, a solid understanding of software development life cycles (SDLC), data structures, and critical thinking skills are crucial traits that will set you apart as a candidate.

This guide will help you prepare effectively for your interview by highlighting the skills and knowledge that are most relevant to the Software Engineer role at Xandr, allowing you to demonstrate your fit with the company's values and technical expectations.

The interview process for a Software Engineer at Xandr is structured to assess both technical skills and cultural fit within the team. It typically consists of several stages, each designed to evaluate different aspects of a candidate's qualifications and compatibility with the company.

1. Initial Screening

The process begins with an initial screening call, usually conducted by a recruiter. This call lasts about 30 minutes and focuses on understanding your background, skills, and motivations for applying to Xandr. The recruiter will also provide insights into the company culture and the specifics of the role.

2. Technical Assessment

Following the initial screening, candidates are often required to complete a technical assessment. This may involve a coding challenge on platforms like HackerRank, where you will solve algorithmic problems within a set time limit. The assessment is designed to evaluate your problem-solving abilities and proficiency in programming languages relevant to the role.

3. Technical Interviews

Candidates who perform well in the technical assessment will move on to one or more technical interviews. These interviews typically last around 45 minutes each and may be conducted via video conferencing. You can expect to discuss data structures, algorithms, and system design concepts. Interviewers will assess your coding skills through live coding exercises and may ask you to explain your thought process as you work through problems.

4. Behavioral and Managerial Interviews

In addition to technical interviews, candidates will also participate in behavioral interviews. These interviews focus on your past experiences, teamwork, and how you handle challenges. You may be asked about your role in previous projects, your biggest challenges, and how you approach problem-solving. This stage often includes discussions with the hiring manager and other team members to gauge your fit within the team dynamics.

5. Onsite Interview

The final stage of the interview process is typically an onsite interview, which may consist of multiple rounds with different team members. This can include both technical and behavioral questions, as well as critical thinking exercises. The onsite interview is an opportunity for you to meet potential colleagues and get a feel for the work environment at Xandr.

As you prepare for your interview, be ready to discuss your technical knowledge and experiences in detail, as well as your approach to collaboration and problem-solving.

Next, let's delve into the specific interview questions that candidates have encountered during the process.

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

Understand the Interview Structure

Xandr's interview process typically involves multiple rounds, including an initial screening call, followed by technical interviews and possibly a final round with the hiring manager. Familiarize yourself with this structure so you can prepare accordingly. Expect a mix of coding assessments, technical questions, and behavioral interviews. Knowing what to expect will help you manage your time and energy effectively during the interview process.

Prepare for Technical Assessments

Given the emphasis on algorithms and coding skills, it's crucial to brush up on your knowledge of data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving techniques. Practice coding problems on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank, focusing on easy to medium-level questions, as these are often the types of problems you may encounter. Be ready to explain your thought process and the reasoning behind your solutions, as interviewers will be interested in your approach as much as the final answer.

Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills

During the interviews, you may be presented with case studies or critical thinking questions. Approach these with a structured methodology: clarify the problem, outline your thought process, and communicate your reasoning clearly. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to think on your feet, which are highly valued at Xandr.

Emphasize Team Collaboration

Xandr values a collaborative work environment, so be prepared to discuss your role in team projects and how you contribute to group dynamics. Share examples of how you've worked effectively with others, resolved conflicts, or led initiatives. This will help you align with the company culture and show that you can thrive in a team-oriented setting.

Be Ready for Behavioral Questions

Expect questions about your biggest challenges, strengths, and how your previous experiences have prepared you for this role. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses, ensuring you provide clear and concise examples that highlight your skills and adaptability.

Communicate Openly and Positively

Throughout the interview process, maintain a positive and open demeanor. Interviewers at Xandr appreciate candidates who are friendly and approachable. Engage in conversations, ask insightful questions, and express genuine interest in the role and the company. This will help you build rapport with your interviewers and leave a lasting impression.

Follow Up Professionally

After your interviews, consider sending a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and reiterate your interest in the position. This not only shows professionalism but also keeps you on the interviewers' radar as they make their decisions.

By following these tips and preparing thoroughly, you'll position yourself as a strong candidate for the Software Engineer role at Xandr. Good luck!

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Software Engineer interview at Xandr. The interview process will likely focus on your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and how you fit within the team and company culture. Be prepared to discuss your experience with algorithms, data structures, and your approach to software development.

Technical Skills

1. Can you explain the difference between a stack and a queue?

Understanding fundamental data structures is crucial for a software engineer role.

How to Answer

Discuss the definitions of both data structures, their use cases, and how they differ in terms of data access.

Example

“A stack is a Last In First Out (LIFO) structure, where the last element added is the first to be removed. A queue, on the other hand, is a First In First Out (FIFO) structure, where the first element added is the first to be removed. Stacks are often used in scenarios like function call management, while queues are used in scheduling tasks.”

2. Describe a time you faced a significant technical challenge. How did you overcome it?

This question assesses your problem-solving skills and resilience.

How to Answer

Share a specific example, focusing on the challenge, your thought process, and the outcome.

Example

“In a previous project, we faced a major performance issue due to inefficient database queries. I analyzed the queries, identified the bottlenecks, and optimized them by adding indexes and restructuring the queries. This reduced the load time by 50%, significantly improving user experience.”

3. How do you approach debugging a complex issue in your code?

Debugging is a critical skill for any software engineer.

How to Answer

Outline your systematic approach to identifying and resolving bugs.

Example

“I start by reproducing the issue to understand its context. Then, I use logging to trace the execution flow and identify where things go wrong. Once I pinpoint the problem, I research potential solutions and test them in a controlled environment before implementing the fix.”

4. What is your experience with version control systems?

Version control is essential for collaborative software development.

How to Answer

Discuss your familiarity with version control systems, particularly Git, and how you’ve used them in past projects.

Example

“I have extensive experience using Git for version control. I regularly use branching strategies to manage features and bug fixes, and I’m comfortable with pull requests and code reviews to ensure code quality and collaboration within the team.”

5. Can you explain the concept of Big O notation? Why is it important?

Understanding algorithm efficiency is key for software engineers.

How to Answer

Define Big O notation and explain its significance in evaluating algorithm performance.

Example

“Big O notation is a mathematical representation of the time complexity of an algorithm, describing how the runtime grows relative to the input size. It’s important because it helps developers understand the efficiency of their algorithms and make informed decisions about which algorithms to use in different scenarios.”

Behavioral Questions

1. Why do you want to work at Xandr?

This question gauges your motivation and fit for the company culture.

How to Answer

Express your interest in the company’s mission, values, and the specific role you’re applying for.

Example

“I admire Xandr’s commitment to innovation in advertising technology. I’m excited about the opportunity to work on cutting-edge solutions that enhance user experiences and drive business results. I believe my skills in software development align well with the team’s goals.”

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

Time management is crucial in a fast-paced environment.

How to Answer

Describe your approach to prioritization and how you ensure deadlines are met.

Example

“I use a combination of project management tools and regular check-ins with my team to prioritize tasks. I assess the urgency and impact of each task, focusing on high-priority items first while remaining flexible to adjust as project needs evolve.”

3. Describe your ideal work environment.

This question helps assess cultural fit.

How to Answer

Share what type of environment you thrive in and how it aligns with Xandr’s culture.

Example

“I thrive in collaborative environments where open communication and knowledge sharing are encouraged. I appreciate a culture that values innovation and allows team members to take ownership of their projects, which I believe aligns well with Xandr’s values.”

4. How do you handle feedback and criticism?

This question evaluates your ability to grow and adapt.

How to Answer

Discuss your openness to feedback and how you use it to improve your work.

Example

“I view feedback as an opportunity for growth. When I receive constructive criticism, I take the time to reflect on it and identify actionable steps to improve. I appreciate when colleagues share their insights, as it helps me become a better engineer.”

5. What role do you typically take in a team project?

This question assesses your teamwork and collaboration skills.

How to Answer

Describe your preferred role and how you contribute to team dynamics.

Example

“I often take on the role of a facilitator in team projects, ensuring that everyone’s ideas are heard and that we stay aligned on our goals. I enjoy collaborating with others to brainstorm solutions and help guide the team toward successful outcomes.”