Pros: The initial discovery call was pleasant, and the Controls Engineer role itself was very pleasant to me. I really wanted this job.
Cons: The communication and coordination from the recruiting team (specifically the Office Manager handling scheduling) were incredibly unprofessional. After my initial call, the scheduling process turned into a frustrating waiting game that lasted 3 weeks of me following up to see if they had an update on their interview schedule, which they constantly kept basically replying with "Not yet, but we will get back to you on X". The recruiter repeatedly missed her own self-imposed deadlines to follow up with interview dates. For context, I passed the initial screening and went on (or at least was supposed to) to the next round.
The most unacceptable part of the process occurred at the very end. I received a formal, automated email with the subject line "Intent to move forward," explicitly stating that their campaign was closing and asking me to provide availability for my next interview with the team. I provided my availability immediately, only to be hit with a rejection letter later saying that the position has filled.
Advice to Management: Please audit your Applicant Tracking System and your internal communication. Sending a candidate a formal invitation to advance to the next round, only to reject them after they provide their availability, is highly disrespectful of their time and effort. If a position is filled or you are moving in another direction, communicate that promptly rather than stringing candidates along and offering false hope.
My time is just as valuable as yours. Please don't waste it.