Process
There were a series of interviews, approximately 45 minutes each.
Most interviews asked a programming question of the type that can be found on LeetCode or similar sites.
There were also theory questions about machine learning and the latest developments in deep learning.
Questions
Why do we use ReLU instead of sigmoid nonlinearity?
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Interview Statistics
The following metrics were computed from 22 interview experiences for the SambaNova Software Engineer role.
Success Rate
23%
Pass Rate
SambaNova's interview process for their Software Engineer roles is very selective, failing most engineers who go through it.
Experience Rating
Positive73%
Neutral14%
Negative14%
Candidates reported having very good feelings for SambaNova's Software Engineer interview process.
SambaNova Work Experiences
5.0
Great leadership, but pay needs improvement
Software Engineer • Current Employee
Palo Alto, CA
September 17, 2026
Pros: Great leadership and a clear vision
Cons: Pay is not good compared to others, and there is no liquidity.
4.0
Interesting problems to solve, but tough work-life balance
Software Engineer • Current Employee
San Jose, CA
April 30, 2026
Pros: Lots of opportunities to work on hard, interesting problems.
Cons: It can be hard to balance life and work.
5.0
Intelligent team, but limited career growth opportunities
Hardware Engineer • Former Employee
Palo Alto, CA
August 13, 2026
Pros: A very intelligent team that is best in class.
Cons: Poor long-term career growth structuring
- 5.0Great leadership, but pay needs improvementSoftware Engineer • Current EmployeePalo Alto, CASeptember 17, 2026Pros: Great leadership and a clear visionCons: Pay is not good compared to others, and there is no liquidity.
- 4.0Interesting problems to solve, but tough work-life balanceSoftware Engineer • Current EmployeeSan Jose, CAApril 30, 2026Pros: Lots of opportunities to work on hard, interesting problems.Cons: It can be hard to balance life and work.
- 5.0Intelligent team, but limited career growth opportunitiesHardware Engineer • Former EmployeePalo Alto, CAAugust 13, 2026Pros: A very intelligent team that is best in class.Cons: Poor long-term career growth structuring
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