29 Airbus S.A.S. Interview Questions (with Answers)

1.

What is your current salary?

A potential employer will often base their offer on your current salary. You should be transparent about your most recent earnings and be prepared to back up any salary requests.

If you are currently employed: "I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000, plus a car allowance of $900/month, and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000, plus a car allowance of $900/month, and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"If you are currently unemployed: "My most recent position paid me a base salary of $45,000 plus overtime and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."

2.

Your workload will be large at Airbus. How do you balance life and work?

It is essential to keep a healthy work/life balance to prevent burnout. Talk to the interviewer about how you can maintain that appropriate balance for yourself.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I find that with the right company, it's pretty simple to balance life and work. When I enjoy what I do, it doesn't feel like a chore. I am always sure that when at home, my family gets my attention first. I take time on the weekends to do things for myself and ensure that I regenerate before the work week begins."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"Not every day will be balanced, and I understand that. I find that I can achieve a great work/life balance most days when I take some time to do something for myself. Whether that be a quick workout, or cooking a delicious meal when I get home."

3.

How do you think your early career will help you succeed in this position?

Did you start working at a young age? Perhaps you have held some tough jobs earlier in your career? Many hiring managers agree that the best employees are ones with 'grit' and who have held a 'dirty job' or two in their lives. Talk to the interviewer about your early work experience.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I have been working since I was just 14 years old. My first job was as a shop hand for my father who was a mechanic. I had to sweep, clean, greet customers and order parts. It was a great way for me to get my hands dirty and I was taught excellent customer service skills from an early age. Everything that I learned during that time has helped me to stay grounded and humble in my career."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I started my career working in an office, so I was able to quickly understand how important it is to stay organized and maintain clear communication with everyone on the team. I believe my early experience will help me succeed in this position because it caused me to form good habits from the beginning."

Anonymous Answer

"My early career in both university and customer service has allowed me to develop my skills significantly. My ability to work in a team, my time management, organization and communication skills, or my practical knowledge gained while taking part in university projects have all developed me into a person that embodies the same six core values that represent Airbus."

Rachelle's Answer

Way to go! Bringing in the six core values of Airbus is a great way to finish off this question. Be sure to list these when you are in your real-life interview. You could also dive deeper by expressing how you embody each core value in your professional life.

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4.

At Airbus we seek to hire only those with aerospace experience. Are you more experienced in the private or public aerospace industry?

The interviewer would like to see that you have experience in the industry; whether your aerospace experience comes from private or public entities. If the job description or job posting from Airbus S.A.S. points out a preference of one over the other, it is wise to focus your answer on that particular experience.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I noticed in your job posting that you prefer to see experience in the public aerospace sector. I do have experience in both public and private; however, the most recent three years of my work experience is in the public sector."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I can say that I have equal experience in both public and private aerospace matters. Is there a specific sector where you would prefer to see stronger experience? I would be happy to highlight that experience for you, further."

Anonymous Answer

"I did not notice your job posting request a specific form of experience. I possess roughly two years of experience within University-based projects, which is in the private sector."

Rachelle's Answer

Try to lead with your experience rather than with an 'I did not' statement. I have offered a revision, below.

"My experience is primarily in university-based projects, which is the private sector. I am confident that I could meet the needs of your industry."

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5.

Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.

On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as clear as I would like to be. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"I believe there is always room to improve communication skills so for that reason I will rate myself as an 8/10. I have not received any complaints related to my communication abilities and am quite proud of my oral and written communication skills."

Anonymous Answer

"I rate my communication skills 8/10 as I believe there is always room for improving and nobody is perfect. During my years in customer service, I have been able to develop excellent relationships with customers and colleagues. I have also been able to use my skills to successfully defuse many tense situations with customers and find satisfying and quick solutions to their issues."

Rachelle's Answer

Good! You left room for improvement while still giving a very confident answer. Customer service jobs often bring powerful lessons in communication, so it's great that you drew this experience into your response.

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6.

Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?

Career progression can be a touchy subject, especially if you feel that your career hasn't progressed as well as you would have liked. Talk to the interviewer about your career progression and what you would like to see in the future.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"Overall, my career has progressed a touch slower than I would have liked. I have held a couple of positions that didn't offer the growth and learning that I was expecting; however, I have bounced back nicely. I feel that this particular position would take my career exactly where it should be."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"Yes, I am happy with my career progression. I have always been the type to set out a detailed plan for myself and take the required action steps to get there. This position is most definitely in line with my expected career progression."

Anonymous Answer

"Thankfully, in my time at the university, I developed practical and theoretical skills significantly. I initially participated as a structure member for one of the student projects. Due to my success in that field and the level of collaboration amongst other students, I achieved a structure lead position for another project. I hope to apply the skills gained throughout my experience to this job."

Rachelle's Answer

It sounds as though you are very pleased with your progress. You work hard, and it pays off!

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7.

Confidentiality is of utmost importance to us at Airbus. Are you willing to sign a confidentiality agreement, if hired?

Many companies involved in Aerospace and Defense have sensitive information. Assure the interviewer that you are a trustworthy individual who can handle being under a confidentiality agreement with Airbus S.A.S., if hired.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I am a highly trustworthy person. My background includes many years of experience working on sensitive projects. I fully understand the desire that Airbus S.A.S. has to protect their data and am more than willing to sign a confidentiality agreement."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"Yes, I am willing to sign a confidentiality agreement with Airbus S.A.S., anytime in this process."

Anonymous Answer

"Yes, I intend to learn from my stay at Airbus and develop my skills to remain a crucial part of Airbus' team. I am willing to sign this confidentiality agreement as I respect Airbus' values and do not intend to harm the company."

Rachelle's Answer

Very well said! Nicely done.

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8.

At Airbus we have some strong competitors. In your opinion, what makes us stand out from the others?

It is essential to research Airbus S.A.S. before your interview. Through that research, be sure to study some of their competitors and why you feel Airbus S.A.S. stands out from the crowd. Visit the 'News' and 'About Us' section on the company website to find out if they have received any recent awards or accolades.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I have seen that you have a few competitors in your industry; however, after reviewing your website, online reviews, and seeing your multitude of recent awards I feel that working for Airbus S.A.S. would be a real honor and great step in my career. You stand out from the crowd for refusing to bend from your company values."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"Your organization stands out in many ways. What impressed me the most was your safety record, employee tenure, and growth opportunity. When it comes to your competitors, would you agree that these are stand-out areas for you? I would love to hear more about your company's competition plan."

9.

There are numerous career avenues you can take with Airbus. Which career path interests you the most?

It is essential that you thoroughly research Airbus S.A.S. before your interview. Be sure to examine their careers section, any additional locations, and the variety of departments or business units they may have. You can then accurately assess the potential growth opportunities with Airbus S.A.S.. Discuss your career growth and desires with the interviewer.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I saw on your website that you are looking for an Engineering lead. I am not yet qualified for that level of a leadership role; however, it interests me. I would love to be considered for a role like that with Airbus S.A.S. in the future."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"My primary goal is to become a (insert position title/goal) within the next five years. I am taking additional coursework to gain the required skills. Do you feel this is an achievable goal with your company?"

Anonymous Answer

"I have a great desire and interest in the field of structures, specifically the 'Wing Structures Engineer' role you are currently advertising. My interest in Aero-structures stemmed overtime through the participation in university student-led aerospace projects as a structures member where the design, analysis, and testing of components was my role."

Rachelle's Answer

You offer precise specifics on your interest and desires, showing the interviewer that you have a deep interest and passion for this career path — very strong answer.

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10.

The aerospace and defense industry is ever-changing. At Airbus we seek to hire individuals with a keen interest in this industry. How do you stay up to date on aerospace related current events?

The interviewer would like to confirm that you have a genuine interest in the aerospace and defense industry. Perhaps you read aerospace-related books, follow particular engineering journals or subscribe to a blog related to this industry. Briefly share with the interviewer how you stay up to date on current events related to Airbus S.A.S..

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I am always interested in learning more about this industry and the changes that are taking place. It's truly fascinating. Most frequently, I read the International Journal of Aerospace Engineering. There are also a couple of blogs that I follow including www.aviationweek.com."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"Staying up to date on aerospace-related events is quite easy with a couple of phone applications I have downloaded, and a few blogs to which I subscribe. I would love some new suggestions as well! Do you have any strong recommendations?"

Anonymous Answer

"I tend to keep up with trends in information transfer through social media. Thus, I follow several of Airbus' divisions, including commercial, helicopters, and space on platforms such as Instagram and Twitter. I also read Airbus' regular newsletter postings and listen to the "Make It Fly" podcast. Outside of Airbus, I tend to read online newsletters and magazines that keep up with today's aviation news such as AviationWeekly.com and the Aviation Herald."

Rachelle's Answer

These are fantastic resources, and your answer is highly complementary to the interviewing company. Excellent answer!

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11.

In your opinion, what is the biggest breakthrough in the aerospace and defense industry in the past decade?

The interviewer wants to ensure that you hold strong knowledge, and genuine interest, in the aerospace and defense industry. If you are familiar with the industry, you will know about some of the latest industry breakthroughs. Briefly discuss which one has caught your interest the most.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"There have been endless breakthroughs in our industry; however, I would say the one that excited me the most was the Falcon 9 Full Thrust. It's amazing to me that a partially-reusable launch system is in existence."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"The biggest recent breakthrough in our industry, in my opinion, was the Falcon 9 Full Thrust; however, there are so many from which to choose! May I ask which was your favorite breakthrough as of late?"

Anonymous Answer

"I think the biggest breakthrough would have to be the introduction of complex manufacturing methods that have allowed the implementation of carbon composites in aircraft to improve significantly. The A350, for example, possesses a structure with over 50% carbon composites. It has allowed for the increase of fuel efficiency and performance, meeting today's strict carbon emissions regulations and, thus, extending the life of aircraft."

Rachelle's Answer

You chose a topic that you know a lot about, which is a great route to take. Great approach to this answer!

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12.

Because of the nature of business at Airbus we conduct background checks on employees. This includes criminal background, credit, and education verification checks. Are you willing to comply?

Most companies in the aerospace and defense industry need to be very cautious about who they hire. There is a chance that much of the information you are going to access could be confidential and dangerous if put into the wrong hands. Assure the interviewer that you are most willing to comply with any form of background check they require.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I am happy to comply with any background check required. My record is clean, and I have a strong credit history. I do not participate in drug use, either. You can be assured that if you hire me for this role with Airbus S.A.S., I will maintain a clean record."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"Yes, I am willing to comply with any background checks that you require. I understand the importance of background checks."

Anonymous Answer

"Yes, absolutely, I am more than happy to comply with these checks. I am fortunate to have a clean record and will most definitely maintain this record while working with Airbus."

Rachelle's Answer

Perfectly said!

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13.

Our goal is to be the top rated company in our industry. After researching Airbus, what do you think we could improve on?

If Airbus S.A.S. asks for your feedback on what they could improve on it is best to keep your answer positive and light. Be sure to start, and finish, your suggestion with a compliment on what they are doing right.

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I have conducted a great deal of research on Airbus S.A.S. before meeting you today. I like your branding, and your online presence is strong. If I could make a suggestion, it would be to have a confirmation email sent to all online job applicants. I found the site a bit difficult to navigate and was not sure that my initial application went through successfully. Luckily, your HR department was amazing, and they called me just a few days later for a pre-screen interview."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"If you could improve on anything, I would recommend updating the website a bit more frequently and adding a blog for aerospace enthusiasts. Aerospace and defense is a popular topic for research, and you could gain many website visitors by putting a greater emphasis on your online content."

14.

We are looking for specific post-secondary education for this role. Tell me about your post-secondary education and how it will help you in this position with Airbus.

It is vital that you check the job posting or job description provided by Airbus S.A.S. to ensure that you have the proper educational requirements. If you do not bring the desired degree or certification, be prepared to defend your education and remind them why you are still the best candidate for the job!

If you have the desired education: "I saw on your job posting that you are looking for candidates with a degree in Aerospace Engineering. I have my degree in Aeronautical Engineering from an accredited University. My education will be helpful in this role as it is directly related to your company's focus."

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I saw on your job posting that you are looking for candidates with a degree in Aerospace Engineering. I have my degree in Aeronautical Engineering from an accredited University. My education will be helpful in this role as it is directly related to your company's focus."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"If you do not have the desired education: "I have a Graduate Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Although my degree does not boast a primary focus on Aerospace, I do have significant industry training outlined on my resume."

Anonymous Answer

"I am a 4th-year, aerospace engineering student at a renowned university. During my time here, through undertaking aeronautical and structures based subjects, my theoretical understanding of aircraft structures has increased significantly. This was solidified with hands-on experience as structures lead for one of the student-led projects, which served as a great experience and seemed to be what Airbus desires for this specific job posting."

Rachelle's Answer

Very good work tying in your experience with what Airbus is looking for in their job posting. You give a nice overview here. In your interview, be prepared to dive deeper into some of your school projects, what they have taught you, and how you will apply that to this role.

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15.

Many of our industry competitors have their employees under a non-compete contract. Are you bound by any non-compete contract with your current employer?

The interviewer would like to avoid any hurdles during the offer and negotiations stage that would prevent you from being successfully on-boarded. If Airbus S.A.S. is a direct competitor to your current or most recent employer then you should carefully review your employment contract to ensure nothing is hindering you. Be prepared to present the agreement in your late stage interview.

If you are under a non-compete contract: "I am under a non-compete contract with Company ABC; however, it specifically states that I cannot share any trade secrets or recruit any of their current employees. There is nothing in the contract hindering me from joining Airbus S.A.S.."

Rachelle's Answer #1

"I am under a non-compete contract with Company ABC; however, it specifically states that I cannot share any trade secrets or recruit any of their current employees. There is nothing in the contract hindering me from joining Airbus S.A.S.."

Rachelle's Answer #2

"If you are not under a non-compete contract: "I am free to sign any offer letter that comes my way as there is no such contract with my current employer."

Anonymous Answer

"No, I am currently under no such contract with my employer."

Rachelle's Answer

To the point, which is perfect.

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16.