Technical screening questions
Ask for one example per question and listen for specifics.
- How do you apply an SAP kernel or support package? A good answer: Planning, backups, sandbox first, then production.
- How do you troubleshoot slow dialog response? A good answer: Work processes, database and memory checks.
- How do you set up a transport route? A good answer: Landscape, STMS and import queues.
- How do you back up HANA? A good answer: Data and log backups with recovery tests.
- What does a system copy involve? A good answer: Preparation, export and import, post-copy tasks.
Quick screening questions
Use these when you have only a few minutes.
- How do you manage transports across landscapes?
- How do you troubleshoot a slow SAP system?
- What does an S/4HANA migration involve from the Basis side?
What separates the levels
Match the level to the requirement before you submit.
- Junior: routine administration.
- Mid: upgrades and tuning.
- Senior: migration and landscape design.
Red flags
Any of these is a reason to probe further.
- Functional SAP only.
- No database knowledge.
- Cannot explain transports.
Tools you should hear mentioned
An SAP Basis administrator with real experience usually names several of these without prompting.
- SAP NetWeaver
- SAP HANA
- Solution Manager
- STMS transports
- OS and database administration
- Monitoring tools
Run the call well
Ask for the last project first, then dig into the second or third question. Take notes on versions, team size and outcomes, and record them with the submission so the vendor’s later technical interview does not surprise you.
Frequently asked questions
How long should an SAP Basis administrator screening call take?
Fifteen to twenty minutes is enough to cover the project, three technical questions and availability, rate and work authorization.
Do recruiters need to know the technology?
Working vocabulary is enough. Use the sourcing guide for the role and listen for specifics instead of judging technical depth yourself.