In today’s competitive tech landscape, breaking into the industry can be challenging without the right experience or supportive programs. Fortunately, companies like Pinterest offer in-depth apprenticeship programs designed to equip aspiring technologists with the skills and mentorship needed to thrive. The Pinterest Apprenticeship Program is a paid, full-time opportunity developed for individuals from non-traditional backgrounds who want to launch a career in tech.
TLDR:
The Pinterest Apprenticeship Program is a career-launching opportunity geared toward individuals from non-traditional tech backgrounds. Candidates should demonstrate passion, basic coding proficiency, and a commitment to growth. The recruitment process includes an application, technical assessments, and interviews tailored for those with non-traditional experiences. Preparation, persistence, and a strong understanding of Pinterest’s mission are key to success.
What Is the Pinterest Apprenticeship Program?
The Pinterest Apprenticeship is a six-month program that provides comprehensive, hands-on training for emerging software engineers. With a focus on mentorship, personal growth, and real-world projects, this program is uniquely situated to open doors for underrepresented individuals in technology, including career changers, bootcamp graduates, and self-taught coders.
Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, participants may be offered a full-time position. This opportunity has evolved into a well-respected pathway to joining Pinterest’s engineering team and contributing to their innovative platform.
Who Is Eligible?
Unlike traditional internships, Pinterest’s apprenticeship isn’t limited to recent college grads. The program is built for those who have gained experience through unconventional learning paths and are ready to transition into full-time roles in tech.
Ideal candidates:
- Graduates of coding bootcamps or self-taught programmers
- Career changers with a passion for software engineering
- Individuals from communities historically underrepresented in tech
Basic eligibility criteria include:
- A solid understanding of at least one programming language (e.g., Python, Java, JavaScript)
- Authorization to work in the country where the apprenticeship is offered
- The ability to commit to a full-time, six-month program
Steps to Getting Into the Pinterest Apprenticeship
While every application journey is unique, successful candidates typically follow a series of well-defined steps to maximize their chance of acceptance.
1. Understand the Program Goals
Before applying, it’s important to fully understand the intent of the program. Pinterest’s apprenticeship aims to evaluate potential rather than polish—so focus on showcasing your growth mindset, curiosity, and ability to learn quickly rather than just your technical finesse.
2. Build a Strong Coding Foundation
Though you don’t need a Computer Science degree, applicants should demonstrate comfort with basic programming concepts. Spend time studying:
- Data structures and algorithms
- Debugging practices
- Front-end or back-end development fundamentals
- Version control with Git
Courses on platforms like freeCodeCamp, Codecademy, or Coursera can reinforce these skills.
3. Gain Practical Experience Through Projects
Hands-on experience is crucial for standing out. Build personal projects that solve real problems. Consider contributing to open source projects, joining hackathons, or building an interactive portfolio website. Your Github profile should reflect consistent growth and demonstrate that you’ve applied your technical education in meaningful ways.
4. Tailor Your Resume and Application
Your resume should reflect not only your technical skills but how you’ve learned them. If you’re a bootcamp graduate or self-taught, emphasize your commitment and initiative.
In your application:
- Tell your story – Highlight your journey and why you’re transitioning into tech.
- Demonstrate alignment – Connect your values and vision to Pinterest’s mission of inspiring creativity and sharing ideas.
- Show growth – Mention any challenges you’ve overcome and how they’ve shaped your learning.
5. Prepare for the Technical Interview
Applicants typically go through a coding challenge or interview designed to assess problem-solving and coding proficiency. Pinterest aims to meet candidates where they are, so the interviews are more focused on thinking out loud and collaboration rather than trick questions.
To prepare:
- Practice coding problems on LeetCode (easy to medium level)
- Use mock interview platforms like Pramp or Interviewing.io
- Review system design basics for junior-level interviews
Also, prepare behavioral answers using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to communicate your background and competencies effectively.
6. Demonstrate Grit and Growth Mindset
Throughout the process, Pinterest is evaluating whether you’re someone who is eager to learn and grow. You don’t have to be perfect, but you must be hungry to develop both technical and soft skills.
Good qualities to showcase:
- Adaptability
- Humility and receptiveness to feedback
- Curiosity and initiative
- A collaborative mindset
7. Follow Up and Stay Engaged
After submitting your application or completing an interview, follow up with a thank-you note. Reiterate your enthusiasm and interest in growing with Pinterest. Meanwhile, continue learning and iterating on your projects and skills.
Additional Resources for Preparation
These online tools and communities can help sharpen your readiness for an apprenticeship:
- CodePath – Offers courses and interview prep for underrepresented groups in tech
- LinkedIn Learning – Useful for communication and soft skill courses
- Interview Cake – A paid resource for data structure and algorithm practice
- Outco / Career Karma – Career coaching and technical interview prep for bootcamp grads
Life During the Pinterest Apprenticeship
Once you’re accepted, the real learning begins. The first few weeks are usually dedicated to onboarding and training. Apprentices are assigned mentors—experienced Pinterest engineers—who provide technical guidance, personal support, and career advice throughout the program.
Throughout the six months, apprentices work on real projects alongside engineering teams, attend development workshops, and receive frequent feedback. The supportive culture at Pinterest ensures that apprentices feel valued and have clear benchmarks for success.
What Happens After the Apprenticeship?
At the end of the apprenticeship, Pinterest evaluates each participant for potential conversion into a full-time role. This decision is based on performance, growth, and team fit. Even if you’re not offered a position, completing the Pinterest Apprenticeship dramatically boosts your resume and confidence for applying elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
Getting into the Pinterest Apprenticeship requires more than just technical skill—it demands passion, resilience, and authenticity. The program represents a gateway into a tech career for those without a traditional background but with the dedication to make an impact. If you’re relentless in your learning, comfortable with feedback, and genuinely excited about Pinterest’s mission, this could be your launchpad into the tech world.
Apply thoughtfully, prepare diligently, and trust the journey. Your road to Pinterest—and an exciting engineering career—can start today with the right blend of preparation and perseverance.
