30 Department of Energy Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Department of Energy interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. Tell me about an unconventional approach you've taken with your work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
They want to know how resourceful you are and whether you exhibit outside-of-the-box thinking. They're seeking to measure your preferred working style and whether it will benefit them.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Frame yourself as resourceful, with a propensity to think fast on your feet. Meeting deadlines, overperforming, actively learning, displaying a willingness to step outside of your comfort zone, and innovating is the aim of the messaging in your example. You want your answer to exhibit determination, demonstrating that you aren't easily discouraged. Where there is a will, there is a way, which is the attitude you want to convey.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would say I'm a very resourceful person. So I turn to the resources I have on hand any time I have to solve a complicated problem. That's the first step. Too often people can hit task paralysis and have trouble even getting started tackling the problem. So I reach for the closest resource just to get the ball rolling, and proceed accordingly; taking the wisest route I can afford, depending on how pressing the complicated problem in question might be. For example, there was this one time where I....."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Behavioral
2. Tell me about a time you fell behind in your work.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The circumstance behind the example you provide could reveal resourceful thinking and excellent strategies to overcome the odds, or it could reveal a lack of discipline and poor time management skills. It also could reveal how far you've progressed in your professional development and whether you're ahead of the game or lagging.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Don't offer examples where you didn't succeed, didn't learn from the experience, or laid blame on external circumstances or on others. Avoid painting yourself as a victim. Instead, provide an example that centers on the struggle you faced, how you overcame it, focussing on your resourcefulness and an innovative approach in trying to overcome the odds stacked against you, even if you didn't succeed to the degree you hoped. What matters are the gains that contributed to greater success and what you learned from your experience.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I was on vacation when a group project was announced. One member of the group claimed responsibility to inform me and get me up to speed when I returned to work the next day. I took notes as they relayed the details to me of what we needed to accomplish, deadlines and all. I handed them my notes for them to review to make sure everything looked good. They gave me the thumbs up. Where I failed to pad the job was to run my notes by my supervisor and make sure nothing was missed. But I didn't. My supervisor even came by and asked if I was up to speed, which I said I was, and they said if I had questions to let them know. The next week they announced in a group meeting that the deadline was coming up at the end of the week and wanted to check in on the progress of each individual on the team. The person who brought me up to speed, and I expressed we thought we had another week before our deadlines. This was not correct. So we were both running behind. I don't blame them for miscommunicating this detail, nor do I blame my supervisor for not verifying this information. I blame myself for not clarifying. We met our deadline, but we had to work late a couple of days in a row, and our supervisor had to stay late waiting for us to turn in our work so we could meet the deadline the following morning. It wasn't ideal. But knowing what I know now, and how I would've handled things differently, I haven't made a mistake like it since."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Behavioral
3. Tell me about a time you received criticism you felt was unfair.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your answer to this question will offer insights into your communication skills in situations that are more challenging to navigate. They'll gauge whether you have issues with individuals in positions of authority or power. It also aims to reveal whether you take feedback as a growth opportunity, or if you take it personally.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
The trick to answering this question is in demonstrating above average communication skills, such as active listening, mirroring, and effectively communicating non-defensively. A situation like this is nuanced. On one hand, you don't want to deflect blame. Doing so could indicate an unwillingness to accept responsibility for your own actions.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"Someone once blamed me for a mistake made based on a poorly formed assumption. I listened to the information they presented to me. I mirrored them and showed concern for the mistake made and the implications it had on the business. They asked me if I had any questions about the verbal warning they gave me. I followed up by asking them what led them to believe the responsibility for this mistake was mine? They explained their logic, and I corrected them and explained I had nothing to do with this mistake. They showed me why they believed I was the culprit. Explained that wasn't the case and helped them conduct a little research, proving my innocence. We were able to uncover the real culprit, and it turned out the mistake was made by the very supervisor who was trying to give me feedback for the mistake they themself made. This was a little embarrassing for them, I think. Luckily, we never had another conversation like it."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Behavioral
4. What are your weaknesses and strengths?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer will get a peek into your self-awareness if you answer this question in a certain way. How you present your answer could reveal how honest you're being about your strengths, and how capable you are in identifying your weaknesses and growth opportunities.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Frame your greatest weakness as an asset in its own right. Think about self-assessments you've made in the past and see if any of those identified growth opportunities can be applied to your answer. Remain mindful that regardless of how well you think the interviewer is going, they are judging you and your answers. So, how you perceive yourself may differ from how others perceive you, especially the person interviewing you. Remain conscious of your body language throughout the interview process. Exude confidence in your answers. Try to align your self-perceived strengths with what they're looking for as a viable candidate.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I think my greatest strength is my eagerness to please, but my greatest weakness is not being great at saying no. In the past, I've bitten off more than I can chew and struggled with how to communicate 'no.' Since then, I learned that not communicating what's possible within my well-managed time and taking on more than I can handle will lead me to underperform. I've gotten a handle on this. But being a people person who is not easily offended and rarely takes things personally, saying no can be hard for me. This trait is a strength and weakness. I'm learning how to strike a harmonious balance between the two."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Behavioral
5. What do you find most and least enjoyable about your work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to understand what motivates you, what distracts you, and what kind of work environment might suit you best. Someone who has a lot of negative things to say about their last position might feel that way about their workplace, no matter where they are. Therefore, one's answer often stands to offer what one's general attitude towards life is.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Remain professional and strategic in your answers. Keep your answer focused on the positives and what you loved about your last job. With what you liked least, be honest, but stay focused on the positives. Don't hold everyone you work with to unrealistic standards or expectations. Don't bad mouth the staff or how they do things there. Instead, exhibit flexibility and a willingness to learn and grow.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I loved everyone I worked with, and I enjoyed the work itself. I felt grateful that the workplace ended up adopting several of my systems to improve workflow and prevent rework. The thing I liked least was the water cooler. The cliche rang true, and everybody used it as a place to hang around with their hands in their pockets. That or they'd take smoke breaks around the clock, giving them twenty ten-minute breaks throughout the day. Not me. I get antsy when I'm not feeling productive. Also, it's an issue of integrity. I'm not a smoker, but even if I was, I'd feel guilty working the system to get paid to smoke cigarettes. I would use no such means as a vehicle to abuse the system. But that's just me."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Behavioral
6. Would you rather work alone or with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is a behavioral question aimed at determining where you fall on the scale of being an extrovert versus an introvert. There is no wrong or right answer. Both bring value. However, being balanced and adaptable to both delivers the value of both. They're looking for candidates who are adaptable and can ably balance both.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Don't choose one or the other unless that's the case, which, in most cases, it rarely is. Most people fall somewhere in the middle between these two extremes. Put self-evaluative thought into your answer, rather than trying to hurry through it. Be honest. Exude confidence and a sense of self-awareness.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I'd say it is situational. If I'm in a place where I'd been working for a while, I might want a break and to perform some solitary work, but of course, it depends on the situation. Regardless, I am adaptable, and see merits in performing both solitary and collaborative work."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Behavioral
7. What is your biggest regret?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
They're hoping to extrapolate from your biggest regret how you handle disappointment and what you learn from such experiences. Your attitude towards this experience may reveal whether you take responsibility for your own actions, inactions, and limitations.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
How you answer should show self-awareness, as well as your positive attitude towards life. Every setback is a life lesson toward greater success. Describe the situation, the obstacle, and how you overcame it, figuratively or literally. Use examples that showcase your ability to adapt your work style, highlighting your resourcefulness, quick reaction times, and the big-picture logic behind your course of action. Avoid examples that reflect poorly on your performance or reliability.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"There was an opportunity to take part in being one of the first to start up a department abroad. I was excited about the opportunity, but I'd just started a new relationship and invested in that instead. The relationship didn't last, and now, in hindsight, I wished I'd jumped at the chance. It would've furthered my career in leaps and bounds. I'd say that was my biggest regret."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Behavioral
8. What do you consider being your greatest accomplishment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
By defining your self-defined greatest work accomplishment, this question evaluates your standard for putting your all in and seeks to answer if your greatest work accomplishment fits the parameters of what they consider being an overachiever. It also clues them into your values, your personality, and your motivators, providing insights as to how you'd contribute.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Remember, the road to self-improvement is never-ending. So frame your achievement as a milestone towards your future goals. Offer what milestones you hope to accomplish next, building off of your previous accomplishments. Evaluate what they are looking for in their ideal candidate based on how they've advertised their position, and frame yourself as an above-average fit by how you deliver your example.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"While onboarding at my last job, they trained me on the general methods previous employees in my position used to tackle their work. I soaked it up and spent my time evaluating those systems for getting the work done. I changed or reinvented them in ways that made more sense to me. I'm all about increasing productivity only where it doesn't sacrifice the quality of my work. Sometimes I hit the mark, and sometimes it's close but not perfect, and when that's the case, I learn what I can. Well, the head of our division visited our department and evaluated our workflow. They challenged us to increase our department's productivity within the next month. At my first opportunity, I showed my team leader the system's approach I used for my work, in case they'd want to get ideas for how'd they'd meet this challenge. They loved what I'd done so much they had me form a team on how to adopt these systems to the rest of the department in a way where these systems could be adapted to each and everyone's unique personality and work style. Once everyone was up to speed, our productivity increased and we met this challenge. We increased our department's productivity, exceeding the goals they challenged us with. Even better, a few months later, everyone in our department received a bonus. So, I'd call that one of my greatest work-related accomplishments."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Behavioral
9. What's the difference between a goal and an ambition?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
They're interested in the level of your ambition, and whether you have goals in your career, or if you fell into your career and are looking for any job that matches your skills. How you answer will also offer insights into how well your goals and ambitions align with theirs.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Distinguish the difference and outline some of your ambitions and goals. Study the agency's mission statements and goals, and try to align them to your own in subtle ways if possible.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"That's simple. My goals are where I am headed, and my ambition is the road I am traveling to get there. For example, I'm interested in this job, and my ambition landed me an interview with an agency whose values are aligned with my own. Landing a job with an agency, such as the Department of Energy, is my goal."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Behavioral
10. How do you measure the quality of your work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer is probing whether you handle your work with diligence and accuracy. How you answer will clue them in to the level of your skills in your given field, and the degree to which you are an over-achiever.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
You need to explain a process for ensuring the quality of your work. This will come down to a combination of technical skills and aligning all the necessary components of your work. Items you want to touch on in your answer are your organization skills and your methodology or approach to project management, your attention to detail, and the standard you set for your own work.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I start by reassigning deadlines for myself by bumping them up earlier. I check the quality of my work regularly with consistency. Once I've finished any part of a project, whether the task was great or small, before moving on I proof my work accordingly. Then I go through it again as a whole at the end. If it is written, I'll read it out loud. If it's numbers or dates, I'll use similar systems to check the quality of the work as well. I have several systems for just about any type of work I perform."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Behavioral
11. What makes you nervous?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This behavioral question aims to determine whether something that causes you anxiety in the workplace will bolster or hinder your performance. Someone interviewing for a leadership role who has a fear of public speaking might not be the best-suited candidate for the job. Whereas another candidate who feels uncomfortable with disorganization in the workplace might be more likely to implement systems that would benefit and streamline workflow and team performance.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Avoid any examples that might frame you as an ill-suited candidate for the role, such as claiming things like public speaking, conflict, meeting new people, having to decide, or having to deliver clear communication make you nervous. However, feeling anxious about poor communication, a lack of leadership or disorganization are reasonable anxieties and are even better when you take action to correct such situations. So once you determine those factors, detail how you confront those fears constructively in a way that benefits the team.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I get nervous when communication seems to break down. I'm compulsive about making sure everyone is on the same page. I hate unnecessary rework. With solid communication, it is so easily avoided. So, whenever there's someone who is not a skilled communicator who thinks they are communicating clearly because the way they're saying things makes sense to them, I worry they don't grasp the big-picture view. I'm a big-picture person. I can't help it."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Communication
12. How would you describe the role of our agency to a member of the public?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer is curious about how familiar you are with the Department of Energy, and if you've performed the expected cursory research on the department, its mission statements, and values prior to the interview. How you answer will inform them of the standard of your work, its quality, and how frequently you go above and beyond.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Perform your research. There's ample information on their website you can extrapolate from. Rehearse it in a way that comes across naturally. This would be the manner in which you would deliver your answer to the public.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"The Department of Energy manages the United States' nuclear infrastructure and administers the country's energy policy. The Department of Energy also funds scientific research in the field."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
13. What do you do to plan and organize your day?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Being singularly focused is a strength, so long as you're able to shift gears and exhibit flexibility when the need arises. Employers ask this interview question to assess your approach to your work and to size up your skills, especially regarding time management, organization, and your ability to distinguish between urgent and low-priority tasks. Having a firm grasp of these skills allows an employee to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Explore what methods you used to prioritize your work. Talk about the tools and resources you used to plan your work and stay organized on the job. Exhibit strong time management skills for prioritizing commercial importance and external influences on other priorities. Convey your ability to follow the chain of command, and know when to tap into the resources the job offers.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"With time management, you have to think several moves ahead and always have your eye on the big picture. So when it comes to planning and organizing my day, I have to have a clear idea of what I want that day to look like, and I plan accordingly the day or night before. From the moment I prepare my lunch, make sure my coffee maker is programmed, to folding and laying out my clothes."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
14. What 3 things are most important to you in a job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Throughout any interview, they are trying to determine a mutual fit. Interviewing and onboarding are expensive processes. Hiring a suitable fit for the role ensures less turnover and a stronger investment in that employee. This question will help them ascertain your expectations, and whether they can meet them.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Map out your value-driven wants and needs for the next stage in your career. By researching the agency and their values and what they advertise they offer, determine how your goals align. Where possible, adapt their language to your own.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"Strong communication, practicing integrity, and an opportunity for growth from within."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
15. Describe to me the positions of the hands on a clock when the time is 11:50pm.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Questions like these test your reaction time, and whether you put thought into your answer, or answer reflexively before knowing the answer. In a work environment where communication is key, an employee who answers important questions with an assumption, and does not check their work, especially when delivered with conviction, can sometimes be costly. Many who answer this question incorrectly claim both hands are on the 11. But this is incorrect. The minute hand will be on the 11, whereas the hour hand will not quite be on the 12 o'clock position.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Take a brief pause before delivering your answer. Remain confident in your posture, while maintaining friendly eye contact.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"Well, if it is 11:50, the hour hand will nearly be at the 12 o'clock position, whereas the minute hand will be stationed at the 11 o'clock position. I'm curious, in your experience, how do most people answer that question?"
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
16. Where are you from?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Another ice breaker question designed to lower your guard and get you to open up. It also offers another opportunity to create a connection. Once at ease, most people have less of a filter, and might grant their interviewer unintended insights into their personality. The more open you are will help them determine how well you'll fit into their team.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
You can use this icebreaker to highlight where you've come from, not only geographically, but also in life. Share the basics of who you are, why you're here, where you come from, and where you're going. Volunteer your more interesting accomplishments or life experiences. Remain professional. Also, use this opportunity to answer as many questions as you organically can. Doing so will make the interviewer easier for them, and might get them to lower their guard.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I come from a little town called Hell, Michigan. It's one of those little towns you work hard to escape, and it comes with its fair share of jokes. Fun fact, they elected a house cat as their mayor... yeah. So as soon as I reached the age where it was time to tour colleges, I toured campuses out of state. I wanted to get off on a fresh start when I launched my career. So I developed my first five-year career plan, starting with what out-of-state colleges had graduate programs that were conducive to my goals."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
17. This role involves a lot of interaction with concerned citizens. Is that something you can see yourself doing daily?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
They want to ensure you'll represent their department according to their values. Dealing with the public, especially those with strong opinions (informed or not), has its own set of challenges. Your attitude is what they're trying to get a glimpse of through your words, tone, and mannerisms.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Exhibit that you are a people person, and an effective communicator with a strong sense of non-defensive communication. Exude your confidence in being able to keep calm in stressful situations.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"This wouldn't be a problem for me. I consider myself pretty emotionally grounded. People are just people, and we all have different brains and unique experiences which shape our outlook on things. So whether I am dealing with a level-headed concerned citizen or not is irrelevant. I am not experiencing their emotions or their issues, so I don't internalize them with their emotional output. It doesn't stress me out as it does for some."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
18. Why should we hire you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
What they're looking for is a convincing sales pitch. This is an opportunity to align your values and motivators with the work culture of their brand. Coming across as overly confident could make you seem arrogant, whereas being too humble can make you seem insecure or underqualified.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
If you have an unparalleled skill set that proves you as an asset, don't leave that on the table. Offer insights as to how grounded and well-rounded you are. The qualifications of the other candidates they're interviewing will remain as much of a mystery to you as to how their interview performances compare to yours. Therefore, there's no point in competing with them when you deliver your answer. The only thing you have to go on is your own merits. If your noteworthy merits have contributed to your past employers, sing your own laurels by detailing how. The more tangibles you can deliver, the better.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have a pretty great attitude, regardless of the work I perform. I have a proven track record of motivating those working around me. I am the team's cheerleader, an enemy to none, and a friend to all. That combined with my hard skills and on-the-job training and leadership skills, I consider myself poised as a desirable candidate."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
19. What interested you in our agency?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Anyone bringing on a new employee wants to ensure they'll fit into the culture of their work environment, and that they'll complement and work well with the rest of their team. This question offers you an opportunity to reveal your reasons for pursuing this opportunity to work for them. It could also offer a glimpse into how determined you are with your career pursuits.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Exhibit that you've imagined yourself in the role by detailing what interests you the most about working with them. Reveal your interest in the position, as well as how you feel working for them would benefit your future and career. Be vested, but not presumptuous. Showcase your knowledge and the thorough research you performed. Be sure to incorporate their language into your own. Answer with sincerity, in a manner according to your nature.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"Working for the Department of the Treasury is in line with the career goals I've mapped out in my revised five-year career plan. I have my career plan with me. Let me grab it so I can effectively demonstrate my goals."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
20. Tell me about the work you performed at your last job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
They're interested in how your relevant work experience translates to the position you're competing for. They're also curious about your work style and how you measure your productivity.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about the duties and details of what your previous position looked like in ways that apply to the position you're applying for. Next, describe the tools and resources you used to plan and prioritize your work, and how you stayed organized and focused on the job. Break down how your strong time management skills played into the work you performed. Detailing how you track your progress and picked up where you left off are multitasking skills worth mentioning as well.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"Well, I started my day early, allowing myself time to stroll through work, saying my hellos, checking in on an individual level, and keeping a sharp eye out for any details which might grab my attention. Then I check my inbox and review anything new or urgent. I then review the priorities I tracked the evening before, adjust priorities and explore my resources and get to work. The work I did could vary depending on the day, including, but not limited to."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
21. What will you miss most about your last position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How you regard your previous employer, what motivates you, and what kind of work environment suits you best is what they're interested in learning. They're also interested in learning what your loyalty is worth and whether they can compete with your previous employer.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Write a list of all the things you liked about your previous employer. Rank highest those things that helped your career growth. Focus on the positive impact you made on your work environment, which shows the positive, collaborative impact you'll make beyond the team. Halo your answer with gratitude for how they helped advance your career.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"The communication was above par. They loved my systems implementation approach and often adopted my methods. The sense of camaraderie among the team was great. Our team was great, everyone encouraged everyone, and everyone's ideas and innovation were encouraged."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
22. What would your previous employer tell me about you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Many who've had this question posed to them wonder if their interviewer has already conversed with their previous employer. If this question makes a candidate nervous, it will raise concerns about how honest a candidate has been about their qualifications and accomplishments. If the interviewee comes across as confident and provides a notable answer that is consistent with the rest of the interview, this may offer the interviewer greater confidence in the candidate's claims.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
In most states, previous employers will disclose very little about your employment and work history, out of the concern of defamation lawsuits resulting from heresy. Therefore, it is likely they haven't talked to your previous employer and don't already know the answer to this tricky question. There's no need to feel nervous when this question is posed. Answer with confidence, and stay on course with delivering the best interview you can.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"They'd say I'm a clutch player whose standard is above and beyond. They'd say I'm always looking for opportunities to expand my comfort zone, improve upon my already excellent time management skills, and always work smarter than opposed to harder."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
23. Tell me about your work history.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
They're giving you an opportunity to advertise your work history and accomplishments. This is also a test to see if you can align your pursuits with what they offer.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Take a few minutes to walk the interviewer through your work history, highlighting the most relevant positions you've held and the relevant skills you've gained. Recognizing with gratitude the periods of your work history that contributed to your career growth will go a long way in detailing to them a desire for continued career growth and workplace loyalty. Discuss your desire to work long term in your next position, hoping to reap the rewards of such a relationship.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I worked for ABC International Corp. for five years as their environmental impact specialist. I assessed the impacts on local communities and I felt I had a powerful impact on the assessment and implementation to not only protect local communities but also in improving their regional health and protecting their wildlife. During that position, I moved to Canada for 3 years. It was a pretty rural location and there was some initial culture shock involved which I overcame and immersed myself in the community, building lasting relations."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Discovery
24. How did you choose your major?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewers want to determine whether you're committed to pursuing a career with the degree you've chosen or if you've flirted with taking your life in a different direction. They're trying to determine how committed you are to your pursuits.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Display you're committed to your career path. Exhibit passion for your field, and enthusiasm for where it'll lead you. If you weren't committed to your studies when you started, that's fine, as long as commitment emerged along the path of your educational journey.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"In order to be good at something, you have to be driven to learn, grow, and succeed. In order to be driven, enjoy what you're driving towards. It must be a rewarding experience. So that's why I chose my degree. I wanted my career choices to be sustainable. Too many students choose degrees because they don't yet know what they want or they're choosing what they think they should do, but aren't sure why they should. I pursued my degree because it was the most conducive to enjoying the journey and the growth in my passion for my pursuits."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Education
25. Tell me about your education.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
They want to learn more about the strength of your academic record, your ambition, and how your education prepared you for this job opportunity. Whether your degree was oriented to your career, they want to know how your journey led you here, and what you learned from that experience.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Consider your education and how it fits into the requirements for the role you are applying for. Also, your educational history shouldn't be restricted to a formal educational institution. Start by walking the interviewer through your formal education, highlighting any recognition or awards you may have achieved along the way. Then graduate into any and everything that helped you along your career path and aided in your professional growth. Anything that falls under self-taught, as well as professional life lessons, can be part of your educational history.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I earned my degree from Stanford and have a master's in sustainability science and practice. I founded a club on sustainability practices and clean energy. I've always been committed to helping improve the health of others and the planet. I'm proud of my accomplishments there and made a lot of progress towards my career goals."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
General
26. What do you know about the US Department of Energy?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This will help them determine the level of your ambition by how thoroughly you've prepared for the interview, how familiar you are with their agency, and what their position offers. Your knowledge should reveal how far you'd be willing to go to be awarded the opportunity. Your answer may also showcase your strengths, and what you'd contribute.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Perform your research, digging deeper than the job description. Determine their preferred keywords by reading through their branding and core values. Take notes. Tailor your response, presenting your understanding of their department, and follow up with questions to show a drive to learn more.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I've always found that I can learn a lot about an agency by first familiarizing myself with the mission statement of an agency. For example, the Energy Department aims to ensure America's security and prosperity by addressing its energy, environmental and nuclear challenges through transformative science and technology solutions. The further you explore the accomplishments and goals of this agency, the more you'll find how committed they are to their mission statement."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
General
27. How was the drive in?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This initial ice breaker question serves to make you feel more at ease throughout the interview, so you'll lower your guard and be more candid in your answers and expose any red flags. It also serves to answer if you have a reliable mode of transportation to get to and from work to prevent potential attendance issues. Since it is illegal to ask an interviewee if they have a car, this question may seek to reveal the same information without asking it.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Take a more conversational tone with this introductory question. But be mindful to restore a more professional tone once you dive into the interview after this. You want your interviewer to be more open to you as a candidate, but you don't want to get too friendly or conversational, as you might reveal something about yourself that might raise a red flag for them, whether misconstrued.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"The drive was great. In all honesty, I just zone out when I'm in my car. I love my car. I keep it like new, and always use that time to listen to audiobooks, podcasts, or NPR and catch up on my news."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
General
28. What questions do you have for me?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question will help them not only assess your genuine interest in working for them but also clue them into whether you are the type of person to ask questions when training for a new job. The more questions you ask, the more enhanced your communications skills will seem, and the more likely you are to be self-guided and successful at your job.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
You are interviewing the Department of Energy as much as they are interviewing you. They've provided opportunities for you to share your accomplishments and advertise your merits. This is your opportunity to allow them to propose their pitch and advertise their merits and what they offer. Don't ask about pay, incentives, or benefits. This will indicate that you're only in it for the money and that your goals and values are not at all aligned with theirs. Rather, a good question to start with is, 'What does a typical day, from beginning to end, look like for an intern starting in the program?'
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have a few. Let's start with, what does an average day on the job look like once onboarding and orientation are complete?"
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Leadership
29. Tell us about a time you had to make a decision without checking in with your supervisor.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Innovation is partly achieved by taking calculated risks. For some, taking risks comes naturally. Others might take risks compulsively, which could turn costly for an individual, a family, or a company. Then there are those who are risk-averse, maintaining the status quo. They're hoping to determine where you fall on this scale and whether you respect the chain of command or overstep your bounds.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Detail the situation, what inspired you to take the approach you took, and how you achieved a positive outcome. When delivering your example, you want to present yourself as someone who takes calculated risks as opposed to someone who is a habitual risk-taker.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"My professional perspective is, that no matter what job I am performing or what position I'm in, it's my job to anticipate the needs of my superiors and the needs of the team. Therefore, sometimes that means taking a calculated risk by taking the initiative to make time-sensitive decisions when there is no one else to make them. A calculated risk has logic and strategy behind it. So the chances should be pretty good for success. A while back, our team leader got sick and missed a few days of work. There was no one for us to run our work by, so I tried to anticipate what they'd say if I ran it by them."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Situational
30. Tell me about a time when you had to explain a difficult situation to a co-worker or a manager who you believed would become angry or emotional.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This behavioral question will offer a meaningful glimpse into your personality, as well as your soft skills, and the importance you place on communication. Communication is integral to the successful operations of any business. Whether you take clear communication for granted or are accustomed to working in an environment where clear communication with others is key. Make sure you clearly communicate your answer. They phrased this question this way to extract from you any egregious errors you may have made in the past which would alert them to similar mistakes you'll make in the future.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
How to Answer
Avoid any examples that would frame you in a poor light. You don't have to have an example where others on your team could not govern their emotions. Focus on your soft people skills instead. Being able to non-defensively communicate with a wide range of personalities is a trait of strong leadership. Investing the time to work with employees who take more effort to get on the same page makes for a much stronger team. This brand of team collaboration enhances work relations. Exemplify your ability to communicate non-defensively.
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022
Answer Example
"Hmm. Well, all the teams I've worked with have been pretty great. We've all been emotionally grounded, so I've known none of them to get angry about anything. There was one example I can give. This was early in my position there. A coworker decided they were going to quit but were too scared to go through with it, so they called me and told me to pass it on to management that they quit. This wasn't very professional. They were having many issues, so it didn't surprise me. So I passed the information on, and we were all disappointed that this employee took this approach, and gave no notice. In the end, we found someone who was a better fit for the role and this improved the performance of our team. I think about that person now and again and hope they figured out some stuff and found work that was a better fit for them."
Written by Kevin Downey on May 6th, 2022