The process took over two months, 7 interviews, 3 checked references, and an email rejection.
Once I got through the 7 interviews, the recruiter informed me they “rescoped the role” to better fit me as I had interviewed for a senior position and they put me as a junior based on my experience. The recruiter assured me it was because they’re “really” wanted me. I was open, since the opportunity to be at Zoox was exciting to me. At that point, the recruiter informed me that they needed to do three reference checks, to put together “proposal” to the CEO to review. After the recruiter called my three references, we discussed compensation and all the details of an employee contract. Mind you, there was no offer, and the recruiter said this would be needed for the “proposal”. After waiting a week I followed up, to which the recruiter apologized as everyone was on vacation. Then a week later I texted the recruiter to find out what was happening (we had been texting throughout this process). I heard nothing, but saw the exact position freshly posted on LinkedIn. I hoped it was an oversight. However, 24 hours later I received an email saying I had been rejected with very little feedback as to why.
I understand them wanting to find the right person, but it felt like a huge waste of my time and I hope they improve their processes instead of subjecting candidates to this drawn-out experience.