Interview preparation at Lockheed Martin

Company overview

• Develops advanced aerospace and defense technologies including fighter jets, missiles, satellites, and rotary-wing aircraft for military and government customers.
• Differentiators include leadership in tactical aircraft (e.g., F-35 program), high-performance missiles, and space systems with significant U.S. DoD contracts.
• Positioned as a top global security provider with 21st Century Security solutions, focusing on innovation in AI, machine learning, and open-system integration.
• Operates four business areas generating billions in sales, with Aeronautics as the largest segment.
• Designs, manufactures, and sustains advanced military aircraft, missiles, space systems, and mission systems for defense and aerospace applications.
• Differentiates through Full Spectrum Leadership, ethical practices, and over 100 years of innovation via Skunk Works and precision engagement technologies.
• Positioned as a top U.S. government contractor with significant market share in space vehicles, missiles, and aircraft manufacturing.

Competitors

• Boeing
• Northrop Grumman
• Raytheon Technologies

Products

• F-35 Lightning II
• C-130 Hercules
• F-16 Fighting Falcon
• F-22 Raptor
• Missiles and Fire Control systems
• Space vehicles
• Rotary-wing aircraft (Sikorsky)
• Tactical aircraft
• Missile systems
• Rotary-wing aircraft
• Radar and sensor systems

Culture

• Full Spectrum Leadership emphasizing ethical behavior, environmental protection, and mission excellence.
• Team-oriented with integrated product teams across tiers from program managers to assembly workers.
• Invests in employee success through competitive benefits, health plans, and resources for complex challenge-solving.
• Full Spectrum Leadership promoting ethical behavior and environmental protection.
• Diverse team of thinkers and doers committed to customer missions and innovation.
• Emphasis on leadership development programs and veteran employment (20% veterans).

Values

• Ethical decision-making and responsible business practices.
• Innovation in machine learning, software engineering, and advanced technologies.
• Full Spectrum Leadership and commitment to customer trust in high-stakes missions.
• Ethical decision-making and integrity in leadership.
• Innovation and problem-solving for complex challenges.
• Commitment to operational readiness and customer success.

Strategic priorities

• Advancing AI, machine learning, and digital transformation.
• Delivering 21st Century Security solutions through innovation.
• Expanding internationally and into non-defense markets.
• Sustaining leadership in aeronautics, missiles, rotary systems, and space.
• Advancing defense technologies in aeronautics, missiles, rotary systems, and space.
• Investing in AI, cybersecurity, engineering, and intelligent manufacturing.
• Sustaining innovation through R&D and low-cost design strategies.

Current moment

Hiring for AI and digital transformation roles, including engineering interns for AI platforms; ongoing expansions like Texas facilities adding jobs; focus on 21st century talent for open-system integration.

Selection timeline

1. Application Review

   Submit tailored resume via Lockheed Martin's career portal, potentially with employee referral. Recruiter or virtual assistant LEO reviews for fit with AI platform engineering intern role, focusing on academic projects, ML frameworks, and programming skills. Typically 1-2 weeks.

2. Initial Phone Screening

   30-45 minute call with recruiter to discuss background, interest in AI/ML, experience with tools like Python or TensorFlow, and cultural fit. Questions cover resume highlights and basic technical qualifications. Lasts about 1 week post-application.

3. Technical Interview

   Video call assessing AI/ML skills through coding problems, algorithms, data structures, and project discussions relevant to engineering interns. Expect to explain past AI projects, methodologies, and outcomes. Usually 45-60 minutes, 1-2 weeks after screening.

4. Behavioral Interview

   Panel or one-on-one video/in-person session using STAR method to evaluate teamwork, problem-solving, and handling challenges in team settings. Tailored to intern experiences like academic collaborations or internships. 45-60 minutes.

5. Final Interview

   Meeting with hiring manager, team members, or panel discussing role-specific AI platform topics, company fit, and questions for interviewers. May include light technical or situational queries. 1 hour, scheduled 1 week after prior rounds.

6. Offer & Background Check

   Conditional offer extended, followed by background check, drug screening, and security clearance verification if required. Process takes 2-3 weeks; clearance may extend to 3 months for cleared roles. Onboarding follows approval.

7. Application Submission and Review

   Submit tailored resume and application through Lockheed Martin's online portal. Recruiters review for fit with role requirements like industrial engineering coursework; status can be checked via profile or emails from LEO assistant. Typically 1-2 weeks.

8. Phone Screening

   Initial call with recruiter or hiring manager to discuss qualifications, resume, and interest in the Industrial Engineering Intern role. Focuses on academic background, relevant projects, and basic fit; uses STAR format preparation. Lasts 20-30 minutes, about 1 week after application.