Knowledge/skills required for a SDET / SET role

For a role as a Software Dev Engr in Test (SDET) OR Software Engr in Test (SET), the job description says that knowledge of data structures/algorithms (in Java) is required AND knowledge of Relational DB / SQL is required.

My question is:
What level of knowledge is one expected to have in data structures/algorithms (in Java)?
What level of knowledge is one expected to have in Relational DB / SQL?

Can someone please give me feedback on this?

Thanks,
Anand

A Parikh wrote:
My question is:
What level of knowledge is one expected to have in data structures/algorithms (in Java)?
What level of knowledge is one expected to have in Relational DB / SQL?

Can someone please give me feedback on this?

I say you haven't provided enough context. You need to examine what the company does, and what else is described by the recruiter. Also, what you are describing is standard (algorithms and databases) in any CS university program.

If such context isn't available, then I guess the answer is... you'll know more during the interview. Not a good answer, I know.

Henry

I am not talking about a specific job, just in general about algorithms and RDBMS / SQL in job descriptions.
I am not looking for formal courses in algorithms or databases but a way to learn enough fairly quickly.

I have got an algorithms book and I am learning sorting/searching algorithms from Wikipedia, its good.
I have done a course in SQL, so I am OK in that area. DB design/modeling is an issue. I recently found this website on the topic, its a good introduction:
http://www.deeptraining.com/litwin/dbdesign/FundamentalsOfRelationalDatabaseDesign.aspx

Anand

"a way to learn enough fairly quickly"

Academic programs which teach computing algorithms and Relational Table theory cannot be replaced by reading a few Internet web sites.

Speaking in general, although the original post does seem to reference a specific job description, most jobs do require a formal education (at least here in the states).

In fact, that is how a level is determined. Without specific experience, the formal education is the only way to measure it.

Henry

I see those two lines in several job descriptions for SDET/SET positions.

BTW, I am not a newbie, I have a about 15 years of job experience (in US) but as a Software Test Engr. I have finished my last position and I am looking to do something a little different from what I did before. I did take a algorithms course in university long back but have not had to use the knowledge at work.

I agree that formal courses in a university can be good, but once you have a degree in Electrical Engr/Computer Science/Computer Engr, after that you keep learning on your own or along with your work. There are good books (non textbooks) and good internet tutorials out there.

Thanks,
Anand

It could mean anything. The word "knowledge of" implies some knowledge of but not fluency. But that's up to the employer. People on the internet aren't going to be able to help unfortunately.