Describe your experience working with XYZ system.

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How to Answer
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example

While many candidates report that their Raytheon interviews were mostly focused on behavioral-style questions, those interviewing for technical roles almost always mention questions about their technical skills. The exact question depends on the nature of the role, but it is clear that Raytheon seeks candidates with specialized skills and experience. Additionally, they go beyond asking whether or not you have a skill and ask questions that validate your level of experience with a given technology and/or system.

The key to answering a question like this is offering enough detail to convince your Raytheon interviewer that you have the knowledge and experience necessary for success without wasting too much interview time on skillset validation. Briefly describe how long you have been working with the system or technology in question and offer an example of the types of projects you worked on.

Keep in mind that interviews with potential peers or managers who will be working with you directly if hired are more likely to dig in the deepest in this area. It is critical that you represent your experience authentically and that you are prepared for detailed follow-up questions.

"I have worked with XYZ system for a little over two years. I was the technical lead assigned to initially learn about it and develop a strategy for integrating it within our tech stack. Our first project using XYZ and our clients appreciated the time savings they experienced as a result. I would love the opportunity to work on projects using XYZ here at Raytheon if hired. Can you tell me a little about how you've implemented it here?"

"My experience with XYZ is limited and I have only worked with it during time allocated for passion projects in my current role. However, I have advanced knowledge of ABC which is similar in many ways. I feel confident I would be able to use my collective knowledge and expertise of both systems to come up to speed quickly at Raytheon."