MockQuestions

Construction Mock Interview

35 Questions Created By

To help you prepare for your Construction interview, here are 35 interview questions and answer examples.

First Question

35 Construction Interview Questions

25 Interview Questions With Sample Answers

1.   Do you have the ability to see a finished product before it is done?

How to Answer

As a construction worker, it is essential to have a vision of the finished product before it is done. Having a vision helps you successfully build a product without errors along the way. The interviewer wants to know if you can visualize a finished product before it is done to determine if you have what it takes to work for their company. Describe your ability to see a finished product in your mind before it is completed.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"Yes, I do have the ability to see a finished product before it is done. I enjoy drawing and always have a vision in my mind of something I want to build. I think that helps me to see a finished product before it is completed, which guides me when building that product."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

2.   How well do you pay attention to detail?

How to Answer

As a construction worker, it is crucial to pay close attention to detail. If you do not take the time to square things up, properly place a tile, or lay roofing correctly, it will cause problems down the road. The interviewer wants to hear that you pay attention to detail to ensure that you will be the best candidate to hire. Explain the importance of paying attention to detail and give an example of how you do so.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I always pay attention to detail. During my apprenticeship, I learned how even a minor error could cause problems with the build. My mentor taught me to measure twice and cut once, and he was very strict about making every cut perfect. He instilled those habits into me, so I always pay close attention to the details."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

3.   Could you work with little or no supervision?

How to Answer

Describe what category you fall into. Ideal employees with experience can work with little or no supervision, and the interviewer wants to see if you fall into that category. If you are inexperienced, you will need supervision at the beginning. Explain that once you are confident in your work, you can work with little or no supervision.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"Yes, I can work with little or no supervision once I am confident in the work I am doing. Since I am just starting in this profession, I will need some supervision until I understand what I am doing. Once I am comfortable with the work, I will not require supervision and will ask my supervisor if I have any questions."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

4.   How high are the expectations that you strive to meet?

How to Answer

Working in the construction industry, it is crucial to work towards meeting high expectations. If you do shoddy work, it will cause problems in the build down the road. The interviewer wants to hear that you place high expectations on your work. Explain the importance of producing high-quality work and give an example of how you do it.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I put very high expectations on my work. My father was a finish carpenter and taught me to pay attention to detail and to take the time to produce high-quality work. I had a great role model and continue to do the best I can in everything I build."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

5.   Do you take criticism well?

How to Answer

Nobody likes to be criticized, but criticism is valuable for self-improvement and growth. If you consider criticism to be feedback, you can learn where your weaknesses are and improve. In the construction industry, you must be thick-skinned and able to accept criticism. The interviewer wants to hear that you are tough, will take criticism well, and improve where needed. Describe how you handle criticism and turn it into a positive experience.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"Yes, I do take criticism well. I use criticism to improve my work. If someone criticizes my work, I want to learn how I can do a better job. I would rather be criticized and improve my weaknesses than produce mediocre work."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

6.   Have you ever been late for work?

How to Answer

There are times you may be late to work due to an unforeseeable circumstance. If you have been late to work because of traffic, weather, a flat tire, or another situation, describe why you were late and what you did to keep it from happening again. If you are late to work often because of poor time management, the interviewer will view you as irresponsible, and you might be passed over for the job. The interviewer wants to see that you are responsible and value being to work on time. Explain if you have been late and who you notified about your delay.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I have been late to work once in my career. I witnessed an accident on my way to work and stopped to help since I have first aid training. I called 911 to report the accident, rendered aid until emergency services showed up, and called my supervisor to explain why I was running late. I ended up being half an hour late to work, but my supervisor was understanding of the situation and had heard about the accident on the news."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

7.   Do you have your own tools?

How to Answer

The job description should state whether or not having your own tools is a requirement of this job. If it is a requirement, the interviewer wants to see that you meet their requirement before hiring you for the job. If you do have tools, explain what tools you have. If you do not have tools, tell the interviewer, and ask what you need to purchase if hired.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I do have some tools and am gradually adding more as I have the money. I have a skill saw, a toolbox with basic hand tools, a cordless drill, levels and squares, shovels and pickaxes, and a wheelbarrow. Are there other tools I would need to own if I were hired for the position?"

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

8.   Do you have reliable transportation?

How to Answer

The interviewer is not allowed to ask if you own a vehicle, as it can be discriminatory. However, they can ask if you have reliable transportation if it is part of the job requirement. Reliable transportation can include a private vehicle, bicycle, bus, train, subway, carpool, taxi, walking, or a motorcycle. The interviewer wants to know that you will show up to work on time and that transportation will not be an issue if they hire you. Describe your means of travel and a backup plan if the other mode seems unreliable.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"Yes, I have several means of reliable transportation. I have a motorcycle and a truck, both of which are less than five years old. They have both been reliable, and I have never had an issue with either. I perform regularly scheduled maintenance and have AAA if I ever need roadside assistance."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

9.   Are you willing to work overtime without overtime pay?

How to Answer

This is a tricky question to answer in an interview. Federal and state laws require most employers to pay overtime after an employee has worked 40 hours per week. An employer may get away without paying overtime if this is provided in their contract at the time of hire. Since every state and industry is different, you must check your local laws regarding overtime pay. Let the interviewer know you are a team player and willing to work overtime, but they should also realize they need to respect your experience and talent and compensate you for your time. Explain that you are willing to work overtime when required, but you expect to be compensated for your time. You do not want to set a precedent where the employer feels they can make you work overtime without overtime pay.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I am more than willing to work overtime, but I need to be compensated for my time. I bring six years of experience and talent to the table and cannot work for free."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

10.   Are you okay working in poor conditions, such as heavy rain or cold weather?

How to Answer

As a construction worker, you will be working outdoors in all types of weather. Some days the foreman may call off a job due to inclement weather, but other days you might have to work in it. The interviewer wants to know that you can work in poor conditions. They do not want to hire someone who will call off work if it is cold or rainy. Describe how you feel about working in these types of conditions, giving an example from the past. If you are not okay working in poor weather conditions, you will likely be passed over for the job.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"Yes, I am fine working in poor weather conditions and have done so in the past. I did my apprenticeship in Colorado and would work throughout the winter. I have worked in heavy rain, snow, and freezing conditions. I plan accordingly and wear the proper clothing to stay warm and dry."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

11.   Why do you want to work with our construction team?

How to Answer

Before you apply for a job, you should research the company to find out all you can and see if they are a company you want to work for. The interviewer wants to know that you have done your research and to hear your reasons for choosing their company. When responding, the interviewer will determine if you would be a good fit for their team. If the company has won awards for its work, has excellent customer reviews, or has other achievements listed on its website, include them in your response.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I want to work with your construction team because your company values your team members and offers opportunities for advancement. Your team is recognized as the best in the region, and I want to learn and grow with your company. I am fairly new to construction and want to excel in this field. I know working with your team will offer me that."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

12.   Do you have any education in construction?

How to Answer

Many companies will hire construction workers without any experience in construction but may require a high school diploma or equivalent. These companies will provide on-the-job training to their employees. Other companies may require education in construction, such as an apprenticeship or an associate's or bachelor's degree in construction management or construction technology. Describe any education you have received in construction.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I just graduated from high school, where I took classes to prepare myself for a career in construction. I took courses in carpentry, algebra, mechanical drawing, physical education, and physics. My goal is to receive my associate's degree in construction management. I have enrolled at the local community college and will start next semester."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

13.   How did you obtain your general knowledge of construction?

How to Answer

There are many ways you could have learned about construction, and the interviewer wants to hear how you obtained your knowledge. You might have taken shop or carpentry classes in high school, learned from a friend or family member, read books and applied hands-on learning, watched how-to videos, gone through an apprenticeship, or taken construction courses in college. Describe how you have learned about construction.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I obtained my general knowledge of construction from my older brother and my shop teacher. Growing up, my brother was always building things out of wood. In high school, he took a woodworking class and started selling furniture to make money. I would help him assemble the furniture, sand it, and stain it. When I was a little older, he showed me how to measure and cut the wood and run it through a planer. I was interested in woodworking and took shop classes in high school. Our final project was building a house for a local veteran, and that is how I became hooked on building houses."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

14.   How many years of experience do you have working on new construction?

How to Answer

Your resume should state the number of years you've worked in construction, but the interviewer asks specifically about your experience with new construction. The company may primarily work on new construction, and they want to see how familiar you are in this area. Tell the interviewer how many years of experience you have and give examples of the work you have done. If you are new to construction, explain that you are just starting in this career, but you learn quickly and are excited about the possibility of working for their company.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I have three years of experience working on new construction. After graduating high school, I worked as an apprentice for a company that built specialty homes and learned all aspects of the build, from the foundation to the roof. I have worked as a framer, roofer, and drywall installer and have some knowledge of plumbing and electrical."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

15.   Do you have any drywall experience?

How to Answer

If the interviewer asks if you have drywall experience, the company most likely installs drywall as part of its services. If the company prefers drywall experience, they will typically post that preference or requirement in the job posting. If you have experience working with drywall, describe your experience. If you have not worked with drywall, explain that you have not worked with it, but you are willing to learn.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"Yes, I do have drywall experience. I have worked with drywall on four residential home projects and know how to measure and cut drywall, install it, and tape and mud the joints."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

16.   Do you have any roofing experience?

How to Answer

If the interviewer asks if you have roofing experience, the company most likely installs roofing as part of its services. If the company prefers a construction worker with roofing experience, they will typically post that preference or requirement in the job posting. If you have roofing experience, describe your experience. If you have not worked with roofing, explain that you have not worked with it, but you are willing to learn.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I have worked in construction for two years and have not had any experience with roofing. The jobs I have worked on had a roofing team come in after we framed the house, so I have not learned how to install roofing. I am eager to learn, and I pick up new skills quickly."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

17.   Do you have any experience remodeling older homes?

How to Answer

If the interviewer asks if you have experience remodeling older homes, their company most likely does remodeling work. They want to know what experience you have incorporating newer building practices into older homes. Describe your experience with remodeling older homes. If you do not have experience, explain that you are excited to learn to remodel.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"Yes, I have three years of experience remodeling older homes. I have worked on four remodels, one of which was a 100-year-old Victorian. That was challenging because we needed to upgrade their electrical and plumbing while trying to stay within the guidelines of the historical association. I find it challenging but rewarding to upgrade older homes."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

18.   What do you know about electrical work?

How to Answer

You may have experience with electrical work, or you may not. The interviewer wants to determine if you have experience or if they would need to train you in electrical if hired. Be honest, and describe how much you know about electrical work.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I know a little about electrical work but have never officially been trained in electrical. I watched an electrician wire a breaker box for a residential building, and she explained the process as she worked. I do not have hands-on knowledge, but I am interested in learning more."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

19.   What experience do you have in tiling?

How to Answer

If the interviewer asks to hear what experience you have with tiling, it may be part of the job expectations. They want to determine if you have experience or if you would need to be trained if hired. Be honest and describe the knowledge you have and what type of tiling you have done. If you do not have experience, explain that you have no experience, but you are willing and excited to learn how to tile.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I have two years of experience tiling. My first job in construction was with my dad, who is a General Contractor. I helped him build a home for my sister, and he taught me how to lay tile. We tiled the entryway, the kitchen, laundry room, and three bathrooms. After that job, we worked on a restaurant. My dad put me in charge of tiling two large restrooms, the entryway, patio, and kitchen. I feel very confident in my tiling and grouting skills."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

20.   What overall experience do you have in construction?

How to Answer

Some companies hire construction workers with little to no experience, as they will do on-the-job training. Other companies will only hire workers with a minimum number of years of experience. The job description should state what type of experience the company requires, and if you made it to the interview, you must have met their requirements. Describe your experience with anything related to construction.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I have over 15 years of experience in construction. I started as a young child working with my dad on the construction site. He would pay me to pick up nails and clean the site at the end of the day. As I got older, I started learning how to read blueprints, frame, and put in studs, floor joists, headers, and the subfloor. I also have experience in roofing, electrical, and plumbing. I feel comfortable with all aspects of construction."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

21.   Do you have any questions for me?

How to Answer

This question will often be asked at the end of the interview, and it is recommended to ask the interviewer questions when asked. When you ask questions, it shows you are interested in the company and the position, and you want to learn all that you can. Make sure your question(s) cannot be answered on the company website or job announcement and that your questions do not involve pay or benefits. Those questions may have been posted in the job announcement or will be answered by Human Resources when you are offered the job.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"Thank you for asking; I do have a few questions for you. How long have you worked for this company, and what do you like the most and least about the job?"

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

22.   Where do you see yourself in five years?

How to Answer

The interviewer asks about where you see yourself in five years for several reasons. They want to determine if your five-year plan is to be working for their company or if you would be a short-term employee. Second, they want to know what type of professional goals you set for yourself to determine your motivation. Describe where you see yourself in five years related to this position and what goals you have set to get there.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"In five years, I see myself as the foreman of a construction crew with your company. Since high school, I have wanted to work for this company, and I love that you offer opportunities for professional growth. I am enrolled in a construction management course at the community college and will have my associate's degree in a year and a half. After that, I want to continue my education and receive my bachelor's degree in management, which will allow me to develop as a leader."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

23.   Do you have any questions about the position?

How to Answer

Before your interview, it is good to review the job announcement to see if you have any questions about the position. It is always recommended that you ask a question or two, which shows your eagerness to learn all you can about the role. You might ask a question about the first project you would be assigned, the size of the crew, who you would report to, or what the schedule would be. Be sure that the questions you ask are not answered on the job posting, which would show you did not pay attention.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"Yes, I do have a few questions about the position. Thank you for asking. If hired, what would be the first project I would be working on, and what would the schedule look like?"

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

24.   What do you dislike the most about working in construction?

How to Answer

There are many different reasons you might dislike working in construction, such as the unpredictability of work, inclement weather, rude clients, digging trenches, lazy managers, or cleaning up job sites. When you respond, avoid talking negatively about clients or supervisors, which will make you look immature and disrespectful. Choose what you dislike the most, but explain that you still enjoy your profession and do not let that aspect of construction keep you from performing your job.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"What I dislike the most about working in construction is getting laid off during the winter. I enjoy physical labor and do not like having to take three or four months off. When I am laid off from a job during the winter, I go to the gym and build furniture in my workshop. But, I always enjoy when winter is over, and I can get back to working in construction."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

25.   Who did you work for in the past?

How to Answer

The interviewer can look at your resume to see your past employers, but they want to hear from you who you have worked for and where you gained your experience in construction. If you do not have prior construction experience, name your previous employers and your job title. There is no need to name employers unrelated to construction if you have construction experience.

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

Answer Example

"I worked for Caribou Construction, which is a company that specializes in custom homes. I worked for them for three years as an apprentice. I then worked for Granite Construction Company for three years as a framer building commercial buildings."

Written by Krista Wenz on December 1st, 2021

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