Mock SDET Interview: Junior QA Engineer

Preparing for your first SDET interview?

For many junior QA engineers, interviews can feel overwhelming. It’s not only about solving technical questions — you also need to show critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced tech environment.

This guide will walk you through the most common Junior QA / SDET interview questions and how to answer them effectively.

Key Takeaways

  • The most frequent Junior SDET interview questions.
  • How to structure strong answers that interviewers expect.
  • Examples of both technical and behavioral questions.
  • Practical tips to feel confident during your first interview.

What Is a Mock SDET Interview?

A mock interview is a simulated job interview designed to help you practice and improve before the real thing.

These sessions allow you to:
  • Experience a realistic interview environment.
  • Receive feedback on your answers, communication, and technical approach.
  • Build the confidence to perform under pressure.

Junior SDET Interview Questions and Answers

1. Tell me about yourself.

Use the Present → Past → Future structure.

Example:

“I recently finished a QA Bootcamp where I practiced automation in JavaScript and Playwright. Before that, I worked in logistics, which gave me strong problem-solving skills. Now I’m looking for a Junior SDET role where I can apply automation and grow further in testing.”

2. What is the difference between QA, QC, and Testing?

  • QA (Quality Assurance): Process-oriented, prevents defects.
  • QC (Quality Control): Product-focused, validates the result.
  • Testing: The actual activity of finding and reporting bugs.

Example:

“QA builds the right process, QC ensures the product meets standards, and testing is the execution of checks.
Together, they ensure product quality.”
3. Write a basic test case for a login page.

Show structured thinking.

Example:

Test Case: Login with valid credentials
Precondition: User account exists.

Steps:
  1. Open login page.
  2. Enter valid email and password.
  3. Click “Login.”
Expected Result: User is redirected to the dashboard.
4. Write a short program to reverse a string.

Example (JavaScript):
function reverseString(str) {
  return str.split('').reverse().join('');
}
console.log(reverseString("Interview")); // weivretnI
Always explain your thought process, not just the code.
5. How do you test an API?

  • Check status codes (200, 400, 500).
  • Validate response body (fields, data types).
  • Verify headers (auth, content type).
  • Cover negative scenarios (invalid input, missing fields).
Example:

“I usually start with Postman, validating both positive and negative cases, then move to automation using RestAssured or Playwright API testing.”

6. What’s the difference between Selenium, Cypress, and Playwright?

  • Selenium: Old, widely used, supports many languages, slower.
  • Cypress: Modern, JavaScript-only, fast, but limited browser support.
  • Playwright: New, multi-language, multi-browser, supports UI and API testing.
Example:

“I prefer Playwright for modern projects because of speed and CI/CD integration. But I also understand Selenium’s role in legacy systems.”

7. How do you handle conflicts with developers?

Show teamwork and professionalism.

Example:

“If a developer questions my bug report, I provide clear reproduction steps, logs, and explain the impact. My goal is collaboration, not confrontation.”

Why Mock Interviews Matter

You practice in a low-risk environment.
You receive actionable feedback.
You enter real interviews more confident and prepared.

FAQ

Q1: How should I prepare for a Junior SDET interview?
  • Review QA basics, practice coding daily, and rehearse with mock interviews.
Q2: What languages are most common for SDET roles?
  • Java, Python, and JavaScript are the most popular choices.
Q3: Do I need automation knowledge for entry-level roles?
  • Yes. Most interviews expect at least a basic understanding of automation tools.
Q4: How important are soft skills?
  • Very. Clear communication and teamwork are equally important as technical skills.

Want to see this article in video format and more questions?

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See you in class,
— Sergii
Founder of Codemify
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