As one of the world’s leading manufacturers of silicon microchips, ASML is always in high demand. Because of this, the company is always looking for the best and brightest minds to join their team. If you’re lucky enough to get an interview with ASML, you’ll want to be prepared to answer some tough questions.
In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of some of the most common ASML interview questions, so you can go into your interview with confidence.
ASML Interview Process
The interview process at ASML is quite lengthy, taking anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. However, it is generally considered to be fairly difficult, with multiple rounds of interviews and testing. That being said, the overall experience is generally positive, with friendly and helpful interviewers.
Common ASML Interview Questions
- What is your favorite programming language? Why?
- Tell me about a time when you had to work with someone who didn’t know how to use their computer. How did you handle it?
- Why do you want to be an engineer at ASML?
- Why would we hire you over someone else for this position?
- Provide an example of a time when you had to present a technical product to non-technical people, how did you approach the situation?
- Are you familiar with lithography and semiconductors?
- Do you have any experience working in customer support?
- When was the last time you were asked to learn something completely new? What was it? How did you go about learning it?
- Describe yourself as if you were writing a resume.
- We are looking for someone who has excellent communication skills. Can you give us some examples of times where you used strong communication skills?
- Which software development tools or platforms do you have experience with?
- Have you ever worked on a project that failed? What happened?
- Give an example of a time when you had to solve a problem that wasn’t straightforward.
- Are you comfortable handling difficult customers?
- Have you ever managed a team? If so, describe your experience.
- How well do you work independently?
- Describe a time when you took initiative to improve something.
- Would you consider yourself a tech savvy person?
- Tell me about a time when you needed to get input from people outside of your department to successfully complete a project.
- General Motors is a company that emphasizes innovation. What do you think is the most important thing to remember when trying to be innovative?
1. What is your favorite programming language? Why?
This question is a great way to see if you have any experience with the programming languages used by ASML. If you don’t, it’s okay to say that you’re not familiar with them and ask what they are. You can then research each language before your interview so you know how to answer this question.
Example: “I’m most comfortable using C++ because I’ve been working in that language for over five years now. However, I am also proficient in Java and Python, which I learned when I was studying computer science at university.”
2. Tell me about a time when you had to work with someone who didn’t know how to use their computer. How did you handle it?
This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and ability to teach others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention that you were able to help them learn how to use their computer in a short amount of time.
Example: “When I was working as an IT specialist at my previous job, one of the employees asked me for help with using their computer. They said they had been trying to figure out how to use Microsoft Word for over two hours. After looking at their screen, I realized they didn’t know how to open the program. I showed them how to do so and then helped them create their first document.”
3. Why do you want to be an engineer at ASML?
This question is an opportunity to show your passion for engineering and the role you would play at ASML. Your answer should include a few reasons why you are interested in working for this company, including what attracted you to their work and how it aligns with your own interests and goals.
Example: “I want to be an engineer at ASML because I am passionate about creating new technologies that will improve people’s lives. In my last job as an electrical engineer, I worked on developing a more efficient battery system for electric cars. This project was very rewarding for me because I knew that my work could help reduce our carbon footprint and make transportation more environmentally friendly. I also love working in a team environment where we all have different skills and can learn from each other.”
4. Why would we hire you over someone else for this position?
This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your qualifications and how you can benefit their company. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight the skills that make you an ideal candidate. You should also mention any unique or transferable skills that may be beneficial to ASML.
Example: “I believe I am the best person for this position because of my extensive experience in working with complex machinery. In my previous role as a technician at ABC Technology Solutions, I worked on many different types of machines, including computers, printers and scanners. This experience has given me valuable insight into what makes these machines work and how they can be repaired.”
5. Provide an example of a time when you had to present a technical product to non-technical people, how did you approach the situation?
This question is a great way to show your communication skills and how you can explain complex ideas in simple terms.
Example: “At my previous job, I was tasked with presenting our company’s new product to the CEO of the organization. The CEO had no background in technology or engineering, so he didn’t understand all of the technical jargon that we used during our meetings. To help him better understand what we were doing, I created an executive summary for each meeting that included key points about the project and its progress. This helped me communicate more effectively with the CEO while also helping him feel more involved in the process.”
6. Are you familiar with lithography and semiconductors?
This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the company’s products and services. If you are not familiar with these terms, it’s important to do some research before your interview so that you can answer confidently.
Example: “Yes, I am very familiar with lithography and semiconductors. In my last role as an engineer, I was responsible for designing microchips using photolithography. This process involves transferring light through a mask onto silicon wafers to create patterns on the surface. The patterning allows me to etch circuits into the chip. After this process, I used plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition to deposit thin layers of silicon dioxide and silicon nitride.”
7. Do you have any experience working in customer support?
Customer support is a common role for many entry-level positions. Employers ask this question to see if you have any experience working in customer service and how it relates to the job description. If you do, share your experiences with them. If not, explain that you are willing to learn about the position and develop these skills.
Example: “I worked as a cashier at my local grocery store during high school. I learned how to interact with customers and resolve their issues. While I didn’t have much technical knowledge back then, I developed excellent communication skills from this job.”
8. When was the last time you were asked to learn something completely new? What was it? How did you go about learning it?
This question can help the interviewer get a sense of how you approach new challenges and whether you have any experience working with complex technology. Use your answer to highlight your ability to learn quickly, adapt to change and solve problems.
Example: “When I first started my career as an engineer, I was tasked with learning how to use a new software program that helped me design microchips for computers. At first, it seemed like a daunting task, but I broke down the process into small steps and practiced each one until I felt comfortable enough to move on to the next step. After about two weeks of practicing, I had mastered the software and could apply what I learned to other projects.”
9. Describe yourself as if you were writing a resume.
This question is a great way to test your ability to write clearly and concisely. It also allows the interviewer to get an idea of what you consider important in your life. When answering this question, it’s best to focus on your most relevant work experience and skills.
Example: “I am a highly motivated individual with a strong attention to detail. I have excellent communication skills and enjoy working as part of a team. My previous role required me to manage multiple projects at once while maintaining quality standards. I’m confident that my skills will allow me to succeed in this position.”
10. We are looking for someone who has excellent communication skills. Can you give us some examples of times where you used strong communication skills?
This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you have the ability to communicate effectively with others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of specific examples from previous jobs or experiences where you used strong communication skills and helped achieve positive results.
Example: “In my last role as an engineer, I was responsible for communicating with other engineers about our projects. We would meet every week to discuss what we were working on and how we could collaborate to complete tasks more efficiently. This allowed us to work together and solve problems quickly when they arose.”
11. Which software development tools or platforms do you have experience with?
This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience with the tools and platforms they use at ASML. If you don’t have direct experience, consider mentioning a similar software development tool or platform that you’ve used in the past.
Example: “I have extensive experience using Java as my primary programming language for developing applications. I also have some experience with C++ and Python, but I prefer Java because of its cross-platform compatibility. In my last role, I was responsible for creating an application that would run on both Windows and Mac operating systems.”
12. Have you ever worked on a project that failed? What happened?
This question can help an interviewer get a better sense of your problem-solving skills. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a time when you were able to learn from the failure and apply those lessons to future projects.
Example: “In my last role as a software engineer, I was working on a project that involved creating a new app for a client. The app was supposed to have certain features, but after we finished developing it, we realized some of the features weren’t available. We had to go back and rework the entire app, which took longer than expected. It taught me to always make sure all features are included in the initial development.”
13. Give an example of a time when you had to solve a problem that wasn’t straightforward.
This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and how you approach challenges. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the steps you took to solve the issue and what the outcome was.
Example: “When I worked as an IT specialist for a small business, my manager asked me to find a solution to their company’s slow internet connection. At first, I thought that replacing the router would fix the problem, but after testing the speed of the new router, I realized that wasn’t the case. Instead, I decided to upgrade the company’s internet plan so they could have faster speeds. This helped them save money in the long run.”
14. Are you comfortable handling difficult customers?
This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle conflict and whether you have experience working with challenging personalities. Use examples from your previous work to show that you’re able to remain calm under pressure and solve problems effectively.
Example: “In my last role, I had a customer who was upset because they didn’t receive their order on time. They were very rude when they called in, but I remained calm and explained our shipping policy to them. After explaining the situation, they apologized for being so rude and thanked me for helping them understand the issue. I always try to be as helpful as possible to customers, even if they are difficult.”
15. Have you ever managed a team? If so, describe your experience.
This question can help the interviewer determine your leadership skills and how you might fit into their organization. If you have never managed a team, describe other experiences that helped you develop these skills.
Example: “I’ve had several management roles throughout my career, including managing a small team of technicians at my previous job. I found it helpful to create a schedule for each technician so they knew what tasks they would be working on during different parts of the day. This allowed me to delegate responsibilities and ensure everyone was completing their work in a timely manner.”
16. How well do you work independently?
This question is an opportunity to show your ability to work independently and complete tasks without much supervision. Employers ask this question because they want to know that you can be successful in their company even if they aren’t always available to help you with a task or answer questions. In your answer, explain how you plan out your day and manage your time effectively so you can meet deadlines and goals.
Example: “I am very independent when it comes to my work. I like to plan out my days ahead of time so I know what tasks I need to accomplish each day. This helps me stay on track and get everything done by the end of the day. If I ever have any questions about a project or task, I will reach out to my supervisor for guidance.”
17. Describe a time when you took initiative to improve something.
This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and ability to take initiative. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a time when you took the lead on a project or task that helped improve an aspect of your job or company.
Example: “At my previous job, I noticed that our team was having trouble meeting deadlines because we were constantly waiting for one another to finish tasks. To solve this issue, I created a spreadsheet where everyone could enter their estimated completion dates for projects. This allowed us to see who was ahead in their work and who needed help finishing tasks. It also gave us a better idea of how long each project would take to complete. After implementing this system, our team was able to meet all deadlines.”
18. Would you consider yourself a tech savvy person?
This question is a great way to determine if the candidate has experience with technology and computers. It’s also an opportunity for you to see how they would fit in at ASML, which is a tech company that uses advanced equipment.
Example: “I consider myself a tech savvy person because I’ve been using computers since I was young. My first computer was a Windows XP desktop that my parents bought me when I was 10 years old. I learned how to use it by watching YouTube videos and asking questions of my parents. I taught myself how to build websites and create graphics on Photoshop. Now, I’m able to troubleshoot any issues I have with my computer.”
19. Tell me about a time when you needed to get input from people outside of your department to successfully complete a project.
This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of how you collaborate with others and your ability to work in teams. Use examples from previous experiences where you needed input or assistance from people outside of your department, but still managed to complete projects on time.
Example: “In my last role as an engineer, I was tasked with creating a new microchip that would be used for a specific type of medical testing. In order to create this chip, I needed input from several other departments including marketing, sales and finance. By getting input from these different departments, we were able to create a more efficient product that could generate more revenue.”
20. General Motors is a company that emphasizes innovation. What do you think is the most important thing to remember when trying to be innovative?
General Motors is a company that values innovation, and they want to know what you think about it. They are looking for someone who can help them innovate in their industry. In your answer, explain why innovation is important and how you would implement it into the company if you were hired.
Example: “Innovation is one of the most important things to remember when working at any company. It’s something that I always keep in mind when I’m working on projects or assignments. When I was in college, I took an engineering class where we had to create our own project. We could choose whatever we wanted as long as it was feasible. I chose to make a self-driving car because I thought it would be fun. However, I learned that innovation is more than just having fun with a project.”
