Software Engineer III, Google Assistant

Google

Given an array of integers, write a function to calculate the sum of all the numbers in the array. For example, if the input array is [1, 2, 3, 4, 5], your function should return 15 (which is 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5). Can you write an efficient function to do this, and what is the time complexity of your solution? As a follow-up, consider how you would handle extremely large arrays or arrays containing very large numbers to prevent overflow. Can you provide an example implementation in your preferred language?

Google

Let's design a system for URL shortening, like TinyURL. Assume that we need to handle a large number of requests, say billions of URLs per day. Consider the following: Functional Requirements: The system should generate a shorter, unique alias for a given URL. Users should be able to enter a shortened URL and be redirected to the original URL. The shortened URLs should be relatively short. Non-Functional Requirements: The system should be highly available. URL redirection should be as fast as possible. The shortened URLs should be unique. The system should be scalable to handle a large number of URLs and requests. Considerations: How would you design the data model to store the mappings between shortened and original URLs? What algorithms would you use to generate the shortened URLs? Consider the trade-offs between different algorithms. How would you handle collisions (when the same shortened URL is generated for two different original URLs)? What kind of database would you use and why? How would you handle the high volume of traffic and ensure low latency for redirection? Consider caching strategies. How would you scale the system to handle future growth? Walk me through your design, explaining your choices and the rationale behind them. Include diagrams and specific technologies where appropriate. Explain how you would ensure the system meets the requirements for availability, performance, and scalability.

Google

Let's discuss your skillset. To start, can you elaborate on your technical proficiencies, such as your experience with programming languages, frameworks, and tools? For instance, have you worked with Python, Java, or C++? Are you familiar with front-end frameworks like React or Angular, or back-end technologies like Node.js or Django? Can you provide examples of projects where you effectively utilized these skills to overcome technical challenges? Furthermore, how do you approach learning new technologies and integrating them into your existing workflow? In addition to technical skills, can you share examples of your soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership? For example, describe a situation where you effectively communicated a complex technical concept to a non-technical audience, or a time when you successfully collaborated with a team to achieve a common goal. How do you handle conflicts within a team, and what strategies do you employ to ensure that everyone's voice is heard? Finally, how do you stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and advancements, and how do you continuously develop your skills to remain competitive in the ever-evolving tech landscape?