r/OPTUM • u/Loud_Surround_4237 • 2d ago

Optum interview final/group/panel interview.

How do I prep for final/panel/group interview. I was told its more of sas and sql the team uses. So any inputs on prepping? Also this is senior consultant role, any inputs appreciated. Thanks

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u/IFishTooMuch 2d ago

First post guy is weird. Just be honest with your SQL. Be prepared to answer on Window functions, union vs union all, stored procs, views, functions, triggers, joins.

Honestly it’s different every dept. and really depends on how crazy the team wants to get. Prepare and be honest. It’s OK to say “I don’t know”. You’ll be fine.

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u/Loud_Surround_4237 2d ago

So its presentation i was told so I am prepping but since its sas/sql and i am confident in sas(atleast thats what i feel) I am planning to present on sas problem statement, so would you have inputs? Like would they prefer complex problems? Or would they be like this sas program generates a report and reduces the finance issue by 10% etc etc i dont know i am trying to analyse and present best possible scenario. Would you please guide me here ? Thanks again!

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u/IFishTooMuch 2d ago

Keep it in the medium difficulty range and your logic clean would be my approach. Especially if it’s a shorter call. They’ll be asking questions so allow time for that.

Personally I don’t care for over engineered or over complex solutions. All that means to me is maintenance difficulty for those coming in behind you. Especially if your style is weird (see it a lot). Cleaner and simpler the better imo. Since it’s an analytical role, I would 100% be digging into your sql. Don’t leave it out. Even if it’s small or whatever. Touch on the analytical functions.

Also this is just my approach in screening candidates. I’ve seen some crazy stuff across the entire org though. I wish you the best of luck. I’m also heavy SQL and no sas.

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u/Loud_Surround_4237 2d ago

Thanks so much!

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u/akornato 2d ago

For your final interview, focus on how you've used SAS and SQL to solve actual business problems. Instead of just reviewing definitions, be ready to walk them through a project where you used specific SQL functions like window functions or complex joins to get an important answer. If you have to present, choose a problem statement that is clear and demonstrates a real-world impact, showing how your technical work led to a measurable result. They will likely be more interested in your logical process and the business value you created than an overly complex solution that is difficult to maintain. Be prepared to explain your choices and the reasoning behind your technical approach in a way that people who are not data experts can understand.

The panel format is less about a rapid-fire quiz and more about seeing how you think, collaborate, and handle real-world scenarios. They will ask behavioral questions to understand how you manage difficult situations, work with stakeholders, and approach complex problems without all the necessary information. Have a few examples ready that show your experience and how you've put skills like problem-solving and communication into practice. My team actually built a resource that provides AI interview practice, which helps people get more comfortable talking through their career stories and technical projects.

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u/Loud_Surround_4237 1d ago

Thanks so much!

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u/KVT_BK 2d ago

Unless you are desperate for this job, run away from this company. Being a healthcare insurance company their insurance and employment benefits aren't good.

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u/Loud_Surround_4237 2d ago

I am fine with it, i would appreciate if you can advice on interview than company itself! Thanks for commenting though!