What questions do you have for me about Jacobs or this role?

"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"

The number one tip for this question is to not bypass an opportunity to extend your interview by answering "no." Beyond that, the best strategy is to avoid asking mundane questions like "What is your favorite part about working at Jacobs?" Take the time to prepare several thoughtful questions before your interview and listen closely for opportunities to dig deeper into topics that catch your attention during your interview.

"Thank you for asking. I would like to know what the most pressing challenges are that the teams I will be working with face. I would also like to know what success looks like in this role 6 months to a year after being hired."

At Jacobs, we put a lot of pride into the organization of our projects. Do you consider yourself to be highly organized?

"I have always been an organized person, and since obtaining my Project Management certificate, I find that I am even more dedicated to the organization than I had been in the past. My references will tell you that I am very organized as well. Rest assured, I understand the direct correlation between the organization, productivity, and profitability."

No matter what your target role is, Jacobs expects you to be organized in your approach and execution of your work. Confirm that you have strong organizational skills and provide at least one role-relevant example. If you struggle in this area, think of a few ways to improve and implement them now. Jacobs values employees who identify their weaknesses and proactively improve upon them.

"Even as a child, my mom would tease me about my organizational skills. I had every pencil etched with my name before the first day of school! All jokes aside, yes - I do consider myself to be very organized. I do my best work when my day's activities are pre-planned."

"Organizational skills do not come naturally to me, but I value them highly. I have spent time over the last year or so reflecting on my approach to my work and adjusting it to achieve more efficiency. For example, I used to answer emails as they would come in throughout the day. I recently made a change in which I would only respond immediately to anything that is a high priority. I respond to everything else during two scheduled correspondence times during my day. This change has improved my focus and I can complete my work more efficiently."

What is your greatest professional weakness?

"I sometimes become frustrated when dealing with clients who delay the deliverables I am responsible for as a project manager. I set clear deadlines and allow ample time for completion. However, I realize that the company culture of each client is different and they have pressures and expectations outside of our project work that can affect their ability to deliver. With that in mind, I have made it a regular part of my process to check in with any external resources responsible for deliverables on a more regular basis. That way, I can know earlier in the process if a delay is likely and I can take steps to remove roadblocks and offer support as needed. I am confident that the strategies I am using to creatively solve this issue will serve my clients well at Jacobs if hired."

Describe a weakness that you're already working to improve. This will show your interviewer at Jacobs that you are self-aware and proactive. Also, take the time to learn about Jacobs' culture before your interview and avoid describing a weakness that conflicts with their values. For example, a candidate who describes their difficulty responding to change is unlikely to receive an offer from a company that is known for their ability to innovate and respond to change in the most difficult scenarios.

How would your co-workers describe your attention to detail?

"As an engineer, I regularly turn big-picture ideas into the details required to bring them to life. My co-workers would likely describe my attention to detail as error-free and meticulous. For example, one of the quality assurance members of my team recently stated that he loves working with me because my designs and execution are thoughtfully executed and make his job easy."

It is always best to support your reply with a real-life example. Use two to three descriptive words and then tell a brief story of a time when a coworker noticed or offered praise for a job well done.

"My attention to detail is a point that I have been working on a lot this past year. I am meticulous but, in the past, have pushed my documentation back a little bit. It's something I am conscious of and continually working on. However, I am known for my attention to detail in meetings. My teammates have joked in the past that I observe and remember even the tiniest details of our discussions."

At Jacobs, we know that efficiency is directly related to profitability. How do you accurately assess the progress of each project you manage?

"I understand that efficiency is the primary factor in the profitability of a construction project. Because I bring six years of project management experience, I am confident that I can predict the inefficient factors on a job site and develop key mitigation strategies for each of them. In my most recent position, I was able to increase employee productivity which directly resulted in faster delivery time and increased profits."

Jacobs project managers know that efficiency is about more than tracking tasks. Be sure to mention at least one advanced technique in this area such as:- regular assessment of your project's alignment with objectives, key results, key performance indicators, etc. - mitigation of common jobsite inefficiencies - frequent check-ins with resources or clients that frequently cause delays - continual quality checks - regular team progress and reflection meetings

"In addition to making sure that tasks and phases are completed on time, I regularly assess the degree to which my projects are in alignment with the OKRs and or KPIs. Work being completed on time and efficiently is important, but failing to focus on this area can create missteps in quality and customer satisfaction that ultimately lead to costly rework. Therefore, I take a holistic approach to monitoring efficiency and I make key adjustments during projects to ensure overall success."

Tell me about a time when you took the initiative to improve work-related procedures.

"I was able to present and implement one specific change in the office this past year. It was a recycling program that I felt was very important, even for our smaller office. We had significantly less waste after initiating my plan, and I enjoyed seeing others take pride in helping our environment. When researching Jacobs I noticed there are several projects and internal initiatives that have an environmental or sustainability focus. I would love the opportunity to work for a company that shares my values in this area."

If you take the time to research Jacobs' values you will notice that three out of four apply to this question (we do things right, we aim higher, we challenge the accepted). Talk you your interviewer about a time when you epitomized any of the Jacobs values while working to improve work operations.

"In my most recent position, I noticed that our written procedures were not exactly how the employees were doing things. I decided to interview the employees and compare it to the written procedures that management wanted to use. We were able to come to a compromise that met all of the safety and quality requirements of the company but still worked a bit faster and easier for the staff. I know that Jacobs values employees willing to challenge the accepted way of doing things and I am pleased to know that is a priority of your company."

Tell me about a time at work when your integrity was challenged. How did you handle it?

"Last year our manager went away on vacation for three weeks. Some of my co-workers wanted to falsify our time sheets to reflect overtime hours that we did not work. I disagreed and was able to convince them that it was a bad idea and certainly not worth being fired over. I scanned the Jacobs Code of Conduct before this interview. I value the detailed approach and the support available to employees. I am confident that I will be able to follow all of the guidelines explicitly."

Jacobs takes great pride in their holistic approach to ethics in business. While you may not be asked this specific question, you can boost your chances of a successful interview by working their language around ethics and conduct into your responses. You may not have time to read the entire code of conduct document, but taking the time to scan it can pay off.

"I once had a subordinate that would perform work after clocking out. There was a rumor later that I forced my team to work off the clock to save the company money. I did not know it was happening, and I certainly did not ask anyone to work outside of their scheduled shift.I scheduled a meeting with him immediately to discuss the situation and make it clear that all worked time must be properly accounted for. I asked an HR representative to be present so that he could openly ask questions and discuss why he had failed to log all of his worked time previously. He stated that he felt he was behind some of his team members in terms of his skill level and he was putting in extra time to improve his skills. Instead of working off the clock, I was able to enroll him in a formal training class that helped him improve. I also met with the rest of my team to review the time logging policy and discuss any additional training needs."

Tell me about a time when you effectively delegated tasks.

"In my current position, I was asked to put together a team for a special client project. I was able to handpick the team members and organize the project execution. I chose my strongest employees in a variety of areas. In our initial meeting, I delegated the tasks while explaining my reasoning. This situation was a great opportunity for me to show each team member that I had the utmost confidence in their abilities. I played to their strengths and checked in with them regularly to offer support and ensure that we were on target. We delivered to our client on time and under budget."

Whether you are a junior engineer or a senior project manager, you will likely need to delegate work to a coworker at some point while working at Jacobs. Walk your interviewer through a time in which you were successful in this area and include the following:- a brief description of the task or tasks you delegated and why you needed to delegate them - if applicable, how and why you selected the resource you delegated to - the steps you took to communicate the goals and expectations for the work - any follow-up discussions you had to ensure success - the results

"I was working on a response to an RFP on a job that required several adjustments to the standard equipment we'd typically use. While I am normally able to draw up the specs and estimate the work, I determined it made more sense to request the assistance of a mechanical engineer to validate the level of work required to make those adjustments. I walked her through the details of the job and the basic changes that were required. I asked her to brainstorm a solution and provide me with the list of materials needed and then checked in with her along the way to offer assistance as needed. She knocked it out of the park and came up with several creative solutions that the client loved. I am grateful I delegated that aspect of the work to her as her inventive problem-solving went a long way toward helping us land the job."

What is your long-range career objective with Jacobs?

"While visiting your company website I noticed that you have some leadership opportunities available in a variety of locations. I would love to work my way into a management or leadership role with your organization and would be willing to relocate to do so. I really like what your organization stands for, and I hope to see a current fit, and future growth, here."

Jacobs is known for rewarding talented employees with promotions and they want to know if you can see yourself at Jacobs in the long run. The key to success is to describe a realistic long-range (around 5 years) objective based on the role you're interviewing for. If you're unsure of the viable paths available, focus your answer on mastering certain skills or generically moving into a leadership role.

"My long-range objective is to be a director within your organization. I am constantly looking to improve myself professionally and personally and would welcome the opportunity to do that for your organization."

Tell me about a time you handled an incredibly difficult client. How did you come to a resolution with this person?

"Just last week, a customer called our design team and demanded access to the designs that were in progress. He had originally made his demand to our lead engineer and the situation was escalated to me for resolution. We spoke further and, in the end, he was feeling uncomfortable not being a part of the decision-making every step of the way. I walked him through our process and highlighted the value he would receive by allowing the team to draft the design without client oversight. However, I reassured him that our process includes a detailed customer review and we would modify the design to his liking before finalizing the project. He thanked me for talking the situation through and was ultimately happy with the result. With any customer concern, I remain patient, listen to their points of feedback, and reassure the customer we would do anything within reason to satisfy their requests. Specifically, I take the time to highlight the value that will be created through the proposed solution while ensuring the original concerns are addressed. I am confident my skills and experience in this area are a great fit for the clients I will be working with here at Jacobs if hired."

Your Jacobs interviewer likely knows that this question serves a dual purpose. On the surface, it validates your ability to successfully work with a difficult client. However, it also serves to identify candidates who overshare and lack tact. Be sure to keep your answer brief and avoid any negative judgment of the client you describe. Focus on your ability to remain patient, rational, and ultimately achieve a positive outcome.

How do you diffuse a difficult or tense situation at work?

"I would say that I use my sense of humor often at work but in a good-natured way. Poking fun or adding a sense of sarcasm seems to make things a bit lighter and more fun on the floor. It allows everyone to shake off whatever's bringing us down and move on to the next issue to tackle."

Stress and fast-paced work environments can cause people to feel overwhelmed and sometimes even angry or upset. At Jacobs, tense situations can even occur while working in dangerous environments. There's no one right answer to this question as long as your approach is positive and effective. Here are some examples to consider:- lightening the mood through humor - taking a break to allow everyone time to cool down - focusing on the facts of the situation - brainstorming alternative solutions - developing ground rules - reminding the team of shared values

"My go-to method for diffusing a difficult or tense situation at work is to ask everyone to take a quick break. Stepping away momentarily allows the parties involved to calm themselves and gain perspective before jumping back into whatever caused the tension."

What is your definition of hard work?

"For me, hard work means that I did what I could that day to exceed expectations. I come to work early and stay late if needed and I go over and above the requirements without hesitation."

Hard work and dedication can be interpreted differently by everyone. At Jacobs, hard work may mean going above and beyond to find a creative solution to a problem or it may mean performing difficult physical work on a jobsite. Align your response with the role you're interviewing for and convince your interviewer you're willing to put in the effort to get the job done whether it be mental, physical, or both.

"To me, hard work means going over and above the call of duty whenever the opportunity arises. It means giving my best to my employer every day."

In your opinion, what are the top 3 qualities every engineering/construction professional should possess?

"I believe that every engineering/construction professional should have strong attention to detail, be a strong communicator, and be able to multitask. These are all areas of strength for me, and I look forward to bringing these talents to work for Jacobs."

There are a lot of great answers to this question and your interviewer is likely to resonate with any mix you choose as long as they make sense for the role. If you want to take your response even further you can match your list directly to requirements from the job description or to qualities mentioned by your interviewer during your discussion. Finally, don't forget to include at least one group-based quality such as teamwork, leadership, communication, negotiation, or conflict resolution. Providing a well-rounded answer can prove to your Jacobs interviewer that you have a holistic perspective of what it takes to be successful.

"Every engineering professional should be able to creatively solve problems, should be curious, and should be able to work well in a team setting. The work we do constantly changes and we are continually asked to find solutions to tough challenges. Having a creative and curious spirit goes a long way toward success and so does the ability to merge ideas with your fellow engineers. These are all qualities I lean on daily and I will bring to the team at Jacobs if hired."

Why do you want to work at Jacobs?

"Jacobs has a fantastic reputation for innovation when it comes to inclusive design practices. I appreciate the way the company looks at the holistic picture and develops well-rounded solutions leveraging its expertise across domains. When researching Jacobs in comparison to top competitors, I felt Jacobs was the standout in this area. I value similar holistic principles in my work and personal life and I want to work for a company that is a leader in this area."

This is one of the most commonly reported interview questions and failing to prepare a standout response is a huge missed opportunity. There are several viable paths to success and your answer should be authentic, related to your role, and well-researched (i.e. "I want to work at Jacobs because it is a great company" won't cut it).Consider any of the following: - Appreciation for Jacobs' commitment to (a program, cause, or concept you believe in such as sustainability) - Jacobs' reputation for innovation backed by a relevant example - Jacobs' excellence in relation to their competitors - Jacobs' commitment to diversity and inclusion and a brief explanation of why that matters to you - Specific career advancement opportunities

This role requires top-secret security clearance. Can you outline your experience working on projects that require advanced clearance?

"I have worked on government and defense company network engineering projects for the last ten years. Initially, I had secret-level clearance, but then required TS/CSI clearance four years ago. While I am not allowed to discuss the details of any of these projects, I have always followed all of the guidelines and have maintained all of the requirements for clearance. I will continue to do so and do not anticipate any issues next year when I renew my clearance."

The solutions offered by Jacobs cover a wide spectrum of areas that require discretion and security clearance. While you most likely cannot provide the specifics of the project you've worked on in the past, you can prove that you're ready to work at Jacobs by discussing how long you've held top secret clearance and the general types of projects you've worked on.

Why are you leaving your current job? Why did you leave your previous job?

"I am leaving my current job because the company I work for is not in a position to offer advancement opportunities at this time. My manager and I agree that I am ready for my next opportunity and I want to make sure I continue to grow my skills even if that requires me to work elsewhere.I like my current company and the teams I work with, but Jacobs has a fantastic reputation and multiple avenues for professional growth. I am confident that taking this next important step in my career is the right decision and I look forward to learning from the talented professionals here at Jacobs if hired."

Jacobs is known for asking this question in interviews and it may require a bit of practice to get the answer right. If you're leaving your current role on a high note, keep your response brief and discuss your desire for a role that will allow for growth while you utilize your best skills. You should be honest if you're leaving due to termination or a bad situation, but be careful not to speak negatively about your managers or coworkers. If you made a mistake, own it and describe your plan to avoid a similar outcome. The goal is to briefly explain and end your response on a positive note.

"I was terminated from my previous role. I managed a project that failed and the client threatened to end their relationship with our company if action wasn't taken. The project was in an area I was not familiar with and the budget was much larger than my previous projects. We were short-staffed, and I took the assignment willingly. While the root cause of the failure was multifaceted and several causes were out of my control, I failed to mitigate risk properly and did not communicate the issues promptly. Ultimately, it made sense for me to take responsibility for the failure. I took a two-month break before applying to new roles. I reflected on the situation and brainstormed ways to avoid a similar result in the future. I also read a great project management book and watched videos to improve my skills. I decided to target new roles that fit my experience level well. The project manager role here at Jacobs is in direct alignment with my area of expertise and the types and sizes of projects I have had success in managing. I feel confident I have the skills to execute the responsibilities outlined in the job description effectively."

Tell me about yourself.

"I have worked in construction for over 20 years in the New York area. I started out working for a company that focused mostly on hotel renovations. We worked with many hazardous materials and I became interested in the environmental protection aspects of the work. I transitioned into environmental remediation projects about ten years ago and worked my way up through several supervisory roles. I have experience managing subcontractors and I have a passion for making sure everyone is working well together as a team. I am dedicated to making our environment safe and I would love to work for a company like Jacobs that is committed to excellence in this area. I meet all of the requirements for the construction manager role and I am excited to discuss my experience in further detail and learn more about the role in this interview."

Candidates who have recently interviewed with several companies in search of their next great role tend to use the same response to this question each time they are asked. While having a go-to response is a great way to reduce the stress of an interview, it can also be a missed opportunity. Make sure you review your plan for this question and tweak your response in alignment with Jacobs' culture and the role you're interviewing for.

At Jacobs we prefer to hire individuals invested in their professional development. Walk me through any industry-related coursework you have completed.

"I have taken a variety of coursework related to the construction and engineering industry. In addition to my bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, I also have a Project Management certificate. I bring full dedication to forging a strong career in this field and look forward to bringing my knowledge to work for Jacobs Company Inc.."

The goal here is to demonstrate that you're willing to put time and effort into continuing your education throughout your career. If you're lacking in this area, take the time to review the job description in detail for any gaps and dedicate a few hours to researching those topics before your interview. Let your interviewer know that while you haven't had formal training, you've been working independently to learn about the relevant topics. You can further demonstrate your interest in learning by asking if the interviewer has any specific recommendations for you.

"As I am new to the industry I have not had the opportunity to attend many industry-related courses or workshops. With that said, I do have a certificate in construction safety and am CPR and First Aid certified. Are there any particular courses you are looking for in your next hire? I would be happy to get a head start on anything required for me to be successful in this position."

At Jacobs we put the safety of our employees first. How familiar are you with construction safety standards?

"I admire the fact that Jacobs puts the safety of their employees first. I am very immersed in the current safety standards for the engineering and construction industry. I do have a recent certification in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and am committed to applying that knowledge to a position with Jacobs. Given the extreme weather in our state, I have a strong track record of facilitating safety protocols for the employees I supervise. The accident rates on my projects fell by 34% after I was hired."

Review the Jacobs job description before your interview and make note of any safety regulation education required for the role. Mention your compliance in those areas specifically and reiterate your commitment to diligently following all safety regulations while on the job. If you happen to have an impressive track record for managing incident-free work, now's the time to mention it.

"I believe that safety on site is incredibly important and, for that reason, I am eager to take any safety courses that you recommend. At this point, I have taken coursework in fatigue management, reporting, safe lifting, alcohol and drug awareness, and PPE guidelines."

Have you ever had to terminate an employee?

"I do have experience with employee termination. Although this is a task that no leader loves to do, I am confident in my ability to communicate with underperforming team members. I do not shy away from uncomfortable tasks such as employee terminations and exit interviews.I know that companies often have specific guidelines to follow, and I would make it a priority to be fully educated in Jacobs' policies. Additionally, I appreciate your company's focus on integrity and caring for your people. While it is important to provide clear communication in a termination discussion, I also make it a point to show empathy and treat each employee in this situation with the utmost respect."

Employee termination can be an awkward and uncomfortable task, but it is an important skill for managers at Jacobs. In addition to answering, show your interviewer that you know how to perform in this area in alignment with Jacobs' commitment to working "beyond excellence" and "doing things right."

"I have not been responsible for terminating an employee in the past; however, I do know that this is a task I would be capable of doing. I can give constructive feedback. My knack for giving direction, but also being a dedicated mentor, would make me a person of positive influence when it comes to employee relationships.I read the Jacobs Code of Conduct before this interview and I have also researched your company culture. Is there anything else you would recommend I review before my start date if hired?"

Tell me about your experience with ordering and overseeing the delivery of engineering/construction related materials and equipment.

"I have a full understanding of materials and equipment management. Much of what I learned was during my Project Management education. In my current position, I am responsible for $13M of onsite materials. Just last year I was able to reduce our materials waste-age by 12%."

Walk the interviewer through your inventory management experience. If you lack direct ordering/oversight experience, describe any time you've spent observing or participating in the process indirectly. Also, it is helpful to include details regarding the scale of the purchases and inventory you were responsible for as this will help your Jacobs interviewer to better assess if you're ready for the level of inventory management the role you're targeting requires.

"I have a little over one year of experience in the acceptance of construction materials. In my current position I accept deliveries, ensure the accuracy of the orders, and I also quality check the accepted materials. A typical order can range in value anywhere from several thousand to over a million dollars depending on the job and the phase we're in. In my next position, I would like to be involved in the ordering of materials as well as the vendor relationship building that comes with that. I am confident I can apply what I have learned through observation and quickly come up to speed here at Jacobs if hired."

Tell me about any experience you may have in overseeing the performance of other contractors.

"I have approximately two years of experience when it comes to leading and coaching other contractors. In my most recent position, I led a team of 25 employees ranging from general laborers to junior project managers.I make it a regular part of my process to get up to speed on the policies of their employer as well as any union rules that need to be adhered to. I also take the time to learn their names and a bit about their background when on-site together. I find that even a small amount of time invested in this area goes a long way toward the execution of a successful project."

Given the scale of the projects at Jacobs, anyone working in a managerial or supervisory capacity is likely to oversee the work of contract resources. Convince your interviewer that you understand the difference between internal and external labor management and highlight your relevant experience in this area. If you're new to supervising contractors, research the topic as it pertains to the types of work you'll oversee and be prepared to discuss the topic intelligently. Simply stating that you do not have experience in this area is typically not good enough to land a job with Jacobs.

"My experience in overseeing other contractors includes my current team of four tradesmen. I review their work throughout the day and do random safety checks. I enjoy working in this type of role because I am a natural leader and mentor. I especially enjoy training junior tradesmen."

Do you have experience in determining labor requirements on large-scale construction projects?

"In my most recent position, I was responsible for hiring construction crews up to 25 people at a time. I understand the importance of hiring well-qualified individuals who have a reliable track record. Last year, our retention rate increased by 24% once I began leading our hiring initiatives.In addition to hiring, I have experience coordinating with fellow project managers, third parties, and clients. The mix of resources is different for every project and every client, and I have strong experience in facilitating labor requirements, planning, and scheduling meetings."

Jacobs tackles large-scale projects that require intensive planning and coordination from a team of project managers in many cases. In addition to discussing your experience in determining labor requirements, talk to your interviewer about your experience in coordinating this type of work with clients, third party contractors, and fellow project managers.

"I have not had direct experience in determining labor requirements; however, I do bring experience with interviewing, onboarding, and training. I have a strong record when it comes to employee retention."

How do you successfully motivate your team?

"My formula for a motivated team is to get to know them, uncover what they are passionate about, and find out how they like to be recognized. If I can provide them with proper recognition, tasks that they enjoy and feel they are good at - then they will perform as motivated employees."

There are many paths to a successful answer to this question. While your interviewer at Jacobs understands the best approach is one you believe in, it is important to make sure that your method meets the following criteria:- applicable to the specific team environment you'll be working in at Jacobs - relatively easy to execute - cost-effective - works in diverse team settings - takes individual preferences into account

"Every one of my new hires does a DISC assessment. This assessment shows where they fall in regard to four traits: dominance, influence, steadiness, and compliance. The results help me understand them better and how to tap into their peak performance.While I may not always have an opportunity to perform a detailed assessment, I am able to identify communication styles once I get to know my team members. I feel confident I would be able to leverage these skills to help motivate any employees I lead here at Jacobs if hired."

What makes you a great problem solver?

"I am a great problem solver because I do not allow stress to cloud my judgment and mute my creativity. I am a keen observer with a great memory which allows me to recall unique solutions or ideas. I am also a great listener and often serve to bridge the best ideas from my team members together. Jacobs is known for solving some of the world's toughest problems while mitigating the problems of the future. I would love the opportunity to work with the teams here at Jacobs that rise to that challenge."

When a job description at Jacobs states that you need excellent problem-solving skills they mean it. The first sentence on their website outlines their work in solving the world's most critical problems while inventing the future. That's a tall order, so it is critical to be specific. Here are a few examples you might include:- ability to think clearly under pressure - emotional intelligence - intuition - agility - adaptability - advanced teamwork or leadership skills - communication skills - analytical ability to weigh risks and think through options - training in specific problem-solving techniques

"I am a great problem solver because I draw from the experience of others, whether solicited advice or through my prior observations and then I improve upon that, where possible. My memory and years in the industry have exposed me to many types of situations and problems, so I feel I have a vast amount of experience to draw from, allowing me to be creative and effective in the way I approach any challenge."

At Jacobs, we solve complex problems creatively on a daily basis. Can you describe a time in which you solved a difficult problem with an unexpected idea?

"I was working as an environmental engineer, but I wanted to transition into project management. I was lacking project management experience and my manager told me I would have difficulty making the move without taking a step back in my career. I decided to look for creative ways to gain the experience I needed to justify a chance to step into the role at a level comparable with the salary and benefits level I was at. My first move was to join several business resource groups and volunteer efforts within my company. I volunteered to manage as many tasks as possible including managing a community technology recycling program involving fifty volunteers, third parties, and a significant budget. I also took several classes on project management online to improve my knowledge of best practices and I sought out a mentor. Within a year and a half, I gained a respectable amount of experience and felt confident that I could be successful in the role.The manager who hired me for my first PM role was impressed with my initiative and creative plan to gain the experience I needed. I have successfully managed environmental engineering projects for over 6 years now and I am ready to demonstrate the same level of creativity and tenacity as a senior project manager here at Jacobs."

If you're having trouble coming up with an example to this question, think outside your project work and/or professional experience. Sometimes the most compelling story involves sharing details from your personal life or your professional development. If you do decide to go this route, be sure to relate the problem to the work you'll be doing at Jacobs if hired.

What are your salary expectations?

"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."

It is important to be authentic about your current salary when answering this question, but you should balance that with making sure you ask for what you're worth. This is especially true if you're due for a promotion. Do some research on the typical salary for your role across companies and identify the right number for you. Also, it can be helpful to state that your exact requirements are dependent on the total rewards package offered at Jacobs.

"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am due for a promotion this year and the role I'm interviewing for today represents a similar opportunity. That said, I am hoping for a 10% increase dependent on the bonus structure and total rewards of the role."

How do you handle stress on the job?

"I handle stress very well, and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure not to get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful, and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."

Members of the Jacobs team work in a variety of stressful environments whether working on-site or behind a desk. You don't need to go into too much detail, but be sure to list at least two specific ways you handle stress on the job that are feasible for the role you're interviewing for.

"Stress is part of any demanding job, and I embrace it to the fullest. I take good care of myself and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels. I take advantage of slower times to recharge and ready myself for project phases that are the most demanding. Finally, I reflect regularly and check in with myself to see how I'm doing. I find that mindfulness helps me make helpful adjustments as I go along."

We are looking for strong team players to join Jacobs. What role do you usually take in team projects?

"I am usually the 'ideas person' in team projects. In my current position, I am not the most influential salesperson, but I am highly creative. This creative edge means that, in most projects, I am great at creating a plan of action but am most comfortable passing the final client-facing tasks to our more extroverted personnel."

Many teams at Jacobs are cross-functional and will require you to serve in more than one capacity over time. Let your interviewer know more about the role you naturally take, and then convince them you are comfortable shifting into other roles as needed.

"I like to take the lead on team projects. I am vocal and organized which makes me a natural leader."

"The role I take depends on the makeup of the team and my relative level of experience with the deliverables we're working together to create. I am comfortable stepping into a lead role, I am comfortable serving as a mentor, and I am comfortable working as an individual contributor. If there's a gap to be filled, I'm always willing to step up and play more than one role. I am comfortable that I can add value to any of the teams I would be working with here at Jacobs if hired."

Why do you think you will be successful in this role with Jacobs?

"I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for five years with great training and mentorship. I have a solid understanding of X, Y, and Z (skills listed in the job description). Also, I have all of my updated certifications as outlined in your job description. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career.I also live by similar values. It isn't always easy, but I am committed to doing what is right. I am highly curious and am willing to try new things in favor of innovation. Jacobs believes in aiming higher, and I feel I would fit in well culturally."

A brief response to this question is best, but it should cover two key areas. First, you should match your strengths to the required and preferred qualifications outlined in the job description. There should be no doubt that your skills and experience are a great fit for the role at Jacobs. The second key area is one that candidates often overlook and it can help set you apart from your competition. Jacobs has worked hard to develop a strong company culture. Provide your interviewer with one or two examples of how your values align directly with Jacobs' culture. This will let them know you have the personality and mindset necessary for success.

In your opinion, who are the strongest competitors for Jacobs?

"I understand that the engineering and construction industry is highly competitive. After researching the focus of Jacobs, I believe that the strongest competitors are Fluor and KBR. Despite these competitors being strong, I still believe that Jacobs stands out in the landscape through the integrity displayed in each project, its strong industry reputation, and its honest approach. These are all reasons I want my next role to be here at Jacobs."

Keep in mind that in addition to comparing revenues and client satisfaction rates, you can also note employee-focused comparisons such as eNPS scores, CEO satisfaction rates, diversity scores, career development opportunities, etc. Websites such as Glassdoor and Comparably have excellent stats that will help you craft a well-researched and convincing answer if you want to focus your response on this angle.

"I spent a lot of time researching Jacobs before this interview. While the competitors vary within smaller markets, the large-scale competitors of Jacobs I researched are KBR, Fluor, Worley Parsons, and GHD.One of the most exciting things I found in my research is that in addition to being a standout in customer satisfaction, Jacobs also scores higher in employee satisfaction and company culture. Jacobs' commitment to going beyond excellence really shows and I would love the opportunity to join the team at Jacobs and work for a company that takes such pride in doing things right."

Jacobs Interview Questions

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1. What questions do you have for me about Jacobs or this role?
2. At Jacobs, we put a lot of pride into the organization of our projects. Do you consider yourself to be highly organized?
3. What is your greatest professional weakness?
4. How would your co-workers describe your attention to detail?
5. At Jacobs, we know that efficiency is directly related to profitability. How do you accurately assess the progress of each project you manage?
6. Tell me about a time when you took the initiative to improve work-related procedures.
7. Tell me about a time at work when your integrity was challenged. How did you handle it?
8. Tell me about a time when you effectively delegated tasks.
9. What is your long-range career objective with Jacobs?
10. Tell me about a time you handled an incredibly difficult client. How did you come to a resolution with this person?
11. How do you diffuse a difficult or tense situation at work?
12. What is your definition of hard work?
13. In your opinion, what are the top 3 qualities every engineering/construction professional should possess?
14. Why do you want to work at Jacobs?
15. This role requires top-secret security clearance. Can you outline your experience working on projects that require advanced clearance?
16. Why are you leaving your current job? Why did you leave your previous job?
17. Tell me about yourself.
18. At Jacobs we prefer to hire individuals invested in their professional development. Walk me through any industry-related coursework you have completed.
19. At Jacobs we put the safety of our employees first. How familiar are you with construction safety standards?
20. Have you ever had to terminate an employee?
21. Tell me about your experience with ordering and overseeing the delivery of engineering/construction related materials and equipment.
22. Tell me about any experience you may have in overseeing the performance of other contractors.
23. Do you have experience in determining labor requirements on large-scale construction projects?
24. How do you successfully motivate your team?
25. What makes you a great problem solver?
26. At Jacobs, we solve complex problems creatively on a daily basis. Can you describe a time in which you solved a difficult problem with an unexpected idea?
27. What are your salary expectations?
28. How do you handle stress on the job?
29. We are looking for strong team players to join Jacobs. What role do you usually take in team projects?
30. Why do you think you will be successful in this role with Jacobs?
31. In your opinion, who are the strongest competitors for Jacobs?

Jacobs Interview Questions

1. What questions do you have for me about Jacobs or this role?

2. At Jacobs, we put a lot of pride into the organization of our projects. Do you consider yourself to be highly organized?

3. What is your greatest professional weakness?

4. How would your co-workers describe your attention to detail?

5. At Jacobs, we know that efficiency is directly related to profitability. How do you accurately assess the progress of each project you manage?

6. Tell me about a time when you took the initiative to improve work-related procedures.

7. Tell me about a time at work when your integrity was challenged. How did you handle it?

8. Tell me about a time when you effectively delegated tasks.

9. What is your long-range career objective with Jacobs?

10. Tell me about a time you handled an incredibly difficult client. How did you come to a resolution with this person?

11. How do you diffuse a difficult or tense situation at work?

12. What is your definition of hard work?

13. In your opinion, what are the top 3 qualities every engineering/construction professional should possess?

14. Why do you want to work at Jacobs?

15. This role requires top-secret security clearance. Can you outline your experience working on projects that require advanced clearance?

16. Why are you leaving your current job? Why did you leave your previous job?

17. Tell me about yourself.

18. At Jacobs we prefer to hire individuals invested in their professional development. Walk me through any industry-related coursework you have completed.

19. At Jacobs we put the safety of our employees first. How familiar are you with construction safety standards?

20. Have you ever had to terminate an employee?

21. Tell me about your experience with ordering and overseeing the delivery of engineering/construction related materials and equipment.

22. Tell me about any experience you may have in overseeing the performance of other contractors.

23. Do you have experience in determining labor requirements on large-scale construction projects?

24. How do you successfully motivate your team?

25. What makes you a great problem solver?

26. At Jacobs, we solve complex problems creatively on a daily basis. Can you describe a time in which you solved a difficult problem with an unexpected idea?

27. What are your salary expectations?

28. How do you handle stress on the job?

29. We are looking for strong team players to join Jacobs. What role do you usually take in team projects?

30. Why do you think you will be successful in this role with Jacobs?

31. In your opinion, who are the strongest competitors for Jacobs?