As the world’s leading semiconductor foundry, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) maintains a structured interview process for software and hardware engineering positions. The questions and evaluation criteria closely align with the unique demands of the semiconductor industry. This article provides an in-depth analysis of TSMC interview process，shares sample questions, and offers practical preparation tips to help you ace your interviews.
TSMC Interview Round 1: Coding
The first round of TSMC’s software engineering interviews typically focuses on algorithmic coding and programming. Questions are designed around real-world semiconductor scenarios, emphasizing candidates’ programming proficiency, logical thinking, and understanding of hardware-related contexts. Unlike LeetCode problems, these questions prioritize code correctness, modular design, and practical application in semiconductor manufacturing processes such as wafer test data processing or production scheduling optimization.
Sample Coding Questions
Description: Given an array representing a stream of semiconductor wafer test results (where 1 indicates pass and 0 indicates fail), write a function to calculate the maximum number of passing results within any sliding window of size k.
Input: tests = [1, 0, 1, 1, 0, 1, 1, 1, 0], k = 3
Output: 3
Explanation: The window [1, 1, 1] contains three consecutive passing results, which is the maximum count.
TSMC Interview Round 2: System Debugging
The debugging round is a distinctive feature of TSMC interviews, evaluating candidates’ ability to troubleshoot complex systems. Candidates are typically provided with a simulated wafer test script or production scheduling code (written in languages like Verilog, Python, or C++) and must identify and fix issues. This may involve correcting logical errors or optimizing performance discrepancies.
Sample Debugging Task
Problem: Given a Python script for calculating wafer test yield rates, identify and fix errors causing incorrect results for certain inputs.
Code Snippet (with bug):
def calculate_yield(tests):
total = 0
passed = 0
for test in tests:
total += 1
if test == 1:
passed += 1
return passed / total # Bug: no handling for total = 0TSMC Interview Round 3: System Design
The system design round assesses candidates’ ability to architect solutions tailored to semiconductor manufacturing. Topics may include wafer production scheduling systems, wafer testing pipeline designs, or data analytics platforms. Unlike tech companies, TSMC’s system design questions emphasize hardware constraints (e.g., power consumption, latency) and operational efficiency.
Sample Question
Task: Design a wafer testing scheduling system capable of managing multiple testing machines and wafer batches with varying priorities. Consider factors such as machine utilization, test time optimization, and error handling.
TSMC Interview FAQ
1. How many rounds does the TSMC interview usually have?
The interview typically consists of 3–5 rounds: online assessment (if applicable), technical interview, deep technical/problem-solving rounds, and behavioral/HR interview. The exact number may vary depending on the role, such as software, hardware, or manufacturing engineer positions.
2. How long does it take to receive feedback after an interview?
The feedback timeline varies by role and number of interview rounds. Candidates usually receive a response within 1–3 weeks. For global positions or complex roles, it may take longer. It is appropriate to follow up politely with HR if needed.
3. Does TSMC have online coding tests or assessments?
Some technical roles require online assessments, which may include programming, logic problems, or scenario-based coding tests. Not all positions have this stage.
4. What is the focus of the interview questions?
- Coding: Practical scenarios such as sliding window problems or data processing.
- Debugging: Logical correctness and edge case handling.
- System/Engineering Design: Efficiency and real-world engineering constraints.
- Behavioral: Motivation, teamwork, problem-solving approach, and cultural fit.
5. Will non-technical roles be asked technical questions?
Even for non-core engineering roles, candidates may be asked basic logical reasoning, problem-solving, or professional knowledge related to the position.
6. What is the recommended dress code and etiquette for TSMC interviews?
Business casual or formal attire is recommended for technical interviews. Maintain a professional appearance and attitude. Clean and neat attire is sufficient if there are no specific dress code requirements.
7. How should I prepare for the TSMC interview?
- Practice real-world scenario questions, especially those related to semiconductor manufacturing or process engineering.
- Prepare clear explanations of your projects, highlighting challenges, solutions, and results.
- Be ready to discuss technical problems logically and systematically.
- Prepare behavioral examples demonstrating problem-solving, teamwork, and motivation.
- Follow up professionally after the interview.
Stress-Free Exam Support!
Overwhelmed by exams? Programhelp’s professional exam proxy services deliver precise and efficient results, helping you pass with ease. Get in touch today for a customized plan!
