31 Kiewit Corporation Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Kiewit Corporation 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.
1. How do you believe you would exemplify Kiewit's core values of people, integrity, excellence and stewardship?
How to Answer
Focus on how your qualities will help you to meet and exceed expectations when it comes to Kiewit's values. Discuss the reasons you will be a good fit for the company. Talk about your personal attributes that will help you to do this job well and fit within the Kiewit culture.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"When I read about Kiewit's core values, I felt an instant kinship with the company. Your value of people states that you want to hire the best and brightest and then help them improve even more, which is very important to me. I'm always trying to learn more and become even better at what I do. In addition, practicing my craft with the utmost integrity and excellence is very important to me; I believe that when you check my references, they will tell you the same."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"It's important to me to work for a company that has a clear moral compass and set of values it expects its team members to exemplify. I have always strived to behave professionally, with the utmost integrity and excellence, and I am particularly intrigued by Kiewit's ideal of stewardship as well. I love the idea of extending excellence outside the company into the communities you serve and making clear the expectation that Kiewit team members make their communities better. I believe this is an environment in which I can be very successful."
Written by Michelle Clark
2. What is your long-range career objective with Kiewit Corporation?
How to Answer
Onboarding new employees is a time consuming and costly endeavor, so the interviewer wants to make sure that this role will be a long-term fit for you. Be open with the interviewer about your dreams within this company, on a long-term basis. Share what promotions you hope to eventually receive and discuss what you wish to learn from being a part of their organization. The key to answering this question is to express to the interviewer that you plan to be employed by the company for many years to come.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have some pretty lofty career goals. I want to make a big impact within an industry, to push for always bigger, better ideas. After researching Kiewit and learning more about this position, I feel that this role fits beautifully with my future aspirations. The company shares the kind of growth mindset and ambitious passion for success that I value personally. I really like what Kiewit stands for, and I see a current fit, and future growth, here."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"This particular position is a goal that I have set my sights on for quite some time. I believe it is the next step in a long and fulfilling career in the engineering/construction industry. The industry leadership that Kiewit offers, as well as its culture of integrity, are key for me, and I feel confident I will gain skills in this role that will make me successful."
Written by Michelle Clark
3. What questions do you have for me about Kiewit Corporation, and this role?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers to from merely watching a video on their company site!
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Thank you very much; I do have a few questions for you. First and foremost, what is the company's long-term vision for this particular role, and one year from now, how will you know that the new employee has been successful? What does that success look like?"
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"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?"
Written by Michelle Clark
4. Kiewit consistently ranks as one of the country's top contractors in the delivery of water and wastewater projects, according to Engineering News-Record. How important is this to the nation's infrastructure?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see two things here: first, that you have researched the Kiewit markets, and second, that you can draw a conclusion about the importance of Kiewit's business and the markets it serves. You don't need to go into a lot of detail, but show the interviewer that you understand the big picture.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"This is a tremendous accomplishment for Kiewit; I definitely appreciate the fact that water and wastewater services are a basic, essential component of our nation's infrastructure. In fact, I've heard some pose that basic water and wastewater services have done more to lengthen the human life span than any medical advancements. The important work Kiewit is doing for everything from dams and reservoirs to desalination lines and treatment facilities, contributes to the overall health and well-being of our nation."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Water and wastewater services aren't nice-to-haves; they are must-haves. Kiewit's participation in this particular industry is absolutely imperative to ensuring a successful infrastructure that protects our country's basic sanitation efforts. The complex system of facilities across the nation is the first line of defense against water-borne diseases that historically wiped out entire populations. This is important to me as an employee because it means that the work Kiewit does in this area really matters and makes a difference in people having what they need to live healthy lives."
Written by Michelle Clark
5. Tell me about a time when you took the initiative to improve work related procedures.
How to Answer
Have you ever taken the opportunity to present your employer with ideas on potential change? Talk to the hiring manager about a time when you took the initiative in the workplace.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my present role, I was able to present and implement a key specific change in the office this past year. It was a recycling program that I felt was 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."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"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 their accounts to the written procedures that management wanted to be used. 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."
Written by Michelle Clark
6. Kiewit Corporation is employee-owned. How do you feel about this?
How to Answer
A job search isn't just a one-sided hunt. You must also feel as though this is a good fit for yourself, so make sure to take the time ahead of the interview to think about how being part of an employee-owned company would work for you.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I did read that Kiewit is employee-owned, which I think is a very powerful motivator. It makes business personal for everyone on your team. It also means that your assets are managed by the people who know them best, and that taking on new clients and projects is a direct reflection of the people who work for you. I believe the employee-owned model inspires tremendous loyalty and also attracts team members with a great deal of integrity; they know every business decision is a direct reflection of their values."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I believe the employee-owned model is genius. It gives every team member a stake in the game, and there's a great deal of research that shows employee ownership is a tremendous motivator. Employees are challenged under this model to see the bigger picture and consider how every client and business decision affects the overall company, not just their particular position or personal success. I've never worked under this model, but I would certainly love to."
Written by Michelle Clark
7. We are looking for strong team players to join Kiewit Corporation. What role do you usually take in team projects?
How to Answer
The interviewer truly wants to understand the role that you naturally take on, when put into a team-based environment. Let the interviewer know that you tend to take the lead, without seeming overbearing. If you usually like to generate new ideas and allow someone else to execute them, share your creative side but express that you prefer for others to take the lead.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"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."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I like to take the lead on team projects. I am vocal and organized, which makes me a natural leader. My strengths include setting deadlines and communicating among the team so that everyone is clear on responsibilities and expectations. I've had great success motivating team members and managing resources effectively so that projects are completed on time and on budget."
Written by Michelle Clark
8. What is your definition of hard work?
How to Answer
Hard work and dedication can be interpreted differently by everyone. To one person, another person's hard work could seem like slacking. Talk to the interviewer about how you understand a hard day's work.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"For me, hard work means that I did what I could that day to exceed expectations. It means I go over and above requirements without hesitation and I deliver the very best of myself with my work. I am an achiever by nature, so it also means that I've been able to strike things off a to-do list that is directly related to the company's success."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"To me, hard work means going over and above the requirements of a particular project whenever the opportunity arises. It means giving my best to my employer every day, and it also means focusing on the right things - the projects and tasks that really move the needle for the organization and contribute directly to its success. Being able to link my work to the company's bottom line is a satisfying example of hard work for me."
Written by Michelle Clark
9. What makes you a great problem solver?
How to Answer
Employers want to know that you have a methodical approach to problem-solving. Consider the skills and qualities that help you successfully face problems. Perhaps you have a keen eye for detail. Maybe you can see opportunity when others can only focus on the issue. Share your strengths as a problem solver, and your ability to come up with innovative solutions.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"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'm also very good at keeping the main thing the main thing and not becoming distracted by competing priorities; if I have a clear understanding of what I need to do to make my organization successful, I can solve any problem that comes my way."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"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. I'm also not afraid to reach out for help if I need it, and I have a strong circle of mentors that I can confer with when I'm really stumped."
Written by Michelle Clark
10. Tell me about the importance of the Kiewit Legacy Minority Scholarship.
How to Answer
Show the interviewer that you've done your homework on employee benefits and how they help promote the social causes and continuation of Kiewit's industry.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I remember reading about this in preparation for this interview. I love the idea of this scholarship - it provides financial assistance to talented minority high school students who are the dependents of Kiewit staff and who are pursuing a college degree in engineering or construction management. This is a tremendous employee benefit, along with helping shape the future of the industry."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"The Kiewit Legacy Minority Scholarship is a great idea on several levels. First, it's a tremendous employee benefit that has the potential to encourage high employee loyalty. Second, it's an important public service to help ensure that talented minority students have the financial assistance they need to gain a college education. And third, it also helps assure that the engineering/construction industry has a strong pipeline of talented future members, many of whom may choose to work for Kiewit."
Written by Michelle Clark
11. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"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 gain a slight increase. According to my research, this seems consistent with the market."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I would like to earn slightly above where I am now. I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth. If that is out-of-range for this position, I would hope we could discuss alternative benefits and/or a path to reach that salary goal."
Written by Michelle Clark
12. Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?
How to Answer
Career progression can be a touchy subject, especially if you feel that your career hasn't progressed as well as you would have liked. Talk to the interviewer about your career progression and what you would like to see in the future.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Overall, my career has progressed a touch slower than I would have liked. I have held a couple of positions that didn't offer the growth and learning that I was expecting; however, I have bounced back nicely. I feel that this particular position would take my career exactly where it should be for my level of education, experience and ambition."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I love this question, and I can't imagine that there are very many people who can say that their career has progressed exactly as expected. And if they can say that, it tells me they haven't taken very many risks or disrupted the status quo. Because of my entrepreneurial approach in general, I'm open to new opportunities and willing to take risks in order, ultimately, to enjoy greater success. When you approach your career in that fashion, you never know where it will take you - except on to greater challenges and success."
Written by Michelle Clark
13. Tell me about a time you handled an incredibly difficult client. How did you come to a resolution with this person?
How to Answer
Keep your answer simple and precise. Stay away from long drawn out stories. Briefly, describe a time when you resolved a customer service issue. Highlight your ability to remain patient and rational.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Just last week, a customer called our team because he was unhappy with a particular design we were creating for him. I talked him through the strategic brief and reassured him that we would modify the design if it were truly off-strategy before finalizing the project. We spoke further and, in the end, he was feeling uncomfortable not being a part of the decision-making every step of the way. With any customer complaint I remain patient, listen to their concerns, and reassure the customer we would do anything within reason to satisfy their requests."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I worked in a retail customer care center and had to navigate angry customer experiences more times than I would have liked. People who are upset want to be heard and respected. I would listen, empathize and reassure the customer that I am there to support them and resolve the matter. Communication and reassurance are important throughout the process."
Written by Michelle Clark
14. What can you tell me about the engineering and foundation services Kiewit provides?
How to Answer
This is where you get to showcase the research you've done on Kiewit's essential services. Show the interviewer that you've taken the initiative to gain a general understanding of how Kiewit services its customers.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"From what I've read, I love that Kiewit begins with the end in mind. From an engineering perspective, it isn't enough to just design something, you also have to make sure it can actually be built. By focusing on construction-driven engineering, Kiewit is able to create solutions for your clients that easily translate from blueprints to real, completed projects. This approach also allows Kiewit Foundations Co. to deliver complex geotechnical projects across North America."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Engineering and foundation services are so fundamental that they must be completed exactly right in order for a building structure to be sound. I appreciate Kiewit's approach of beginning with construction considerations in mind, even in the design engineering phase. This sounds intuitive, but not every engineer approaches a project this way. Kiewit's philosophy toward engineering and foundation services gives me peace of mind that any projects I'd work on as part of the Kiewit team would be sound and constructed with the best interests of the client in mind."
Written by Michelle Clark
15. How do you handle stress on the job?
How to Answer
Are you someone who can handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to control pressure in the workplace.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I believe I handle stress very well, and when you call my references, I'm sure 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. I also make sure to take time for myself and to take care of myself physically. I make sure to eat well, exercise and definitely get enough sleep, which gives me the right kind of physical and mental ammunition to deal with stress."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"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'm very good at focusing on the tasks and activities that can provide the most strategic value, and I understand that there will always be more good ideas than I'm able to execute. Making peace with that helps me focus on what I can accomplish rather than being stressed about everything I can't."
Written by Michelle Clark
16. How do you successfully motivate your team?
How to Answer
Motivated employees are productive employees. Talk to the interviewer about how you ensure that your team is feeling motivated and being as productive as possible.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"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 and tasks that they feel they are good at, then they will perform as motivated employees. I also always try to make sure the team has a way to keep score in some way - nothing motivates a team better than 'winning' at achieving their goals."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Every one of my new hires does a DISC assessment. This assessment shows where they fall in regard to four traits: dominance, influence, steadiness, compliance. The results help me understand them better and how to tap into their peak performance. When I combine this with clear goals and expectations, along with appropriate measurement and recognition of success along the way, I have found that it's a powerful motivator."
Written by Michelle Clark
17. At Kiewit Corporation we prefer to hire individuals invested in their professional development. Walk me through any industry related coursework you have completed.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you have taken any formal education and training related to the engineering/construction industry. This question will help the interviewer to assess your commitment to the company and industry.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"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 Kiewit Corporation."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"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 for Kiewit."
Written by Michelle Clark
18. Tell me about a time when you effectively delegated tasks.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you are capable of confidently delegating tasks to your employees or coworkers.
A great leader is someone who can effectively manage their time by ensuring tasks are equitably divided while utilizing the strengths of others. Display to the interviewer that you have the wherewithal to recognize the depths of your team by delegating tasks which compliment their skill sets.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"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 it worked out well. We delivered to our client on time and under budget."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Early in my career I internalized the mantra, "Only do what only you can do." I've taken it to heart and tried very hard over the course of my career to delegate wherever possible. For example, every month I have a meeting with all team members to talk about our plan for the month and how we will delegate the work. It's a great strategy for us; it allows my team members to stretch and taken on professional development responsibilities, and everyone starts the month with clear expectations."
Written by Michelle Clark
19. Tell me a little about the markets Kiewit serves and why they are essential.
How to Answer
Make sure to visit the Kiewit website before your interview, which has background information about the markets Kiewit serves. You don't have to have in-depth knowledge, but be prepared to discuss the larger ramifications of Kiewit's core markets.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"The markets Kiewit serves are some of the most essential for the nation's day-to-day successful operation: building, mining, oil/gas and chemical, power, transportation and water/wastewater. From roads and dams to high-rise office buildings and power plants, Kiewit is involved with making sure essential industries have what they need to keep our economy smoothly rolling along."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"The markets Kiewit serves are very attractive to me, because they represent essential services. That means the work Kiewit's team does really matters - it makes a tangible difference in our nation's success. Markets like power, transportation and water/wastewater are especially attractive to me; they represent some of the basic services that help people live in a way that is healthy and meets their basic needs."
Written by Michelle Clark
20. Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?
How to Answer
Do you feel that you should be paid based on tenure, or results? Discuss this with the interviewer and back your answer with an example, if possible.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Both tenure and performance are important, but I do lean toward performance incentives. I feel that employees should be paid, and rewarded, based on the documented value they bring to the organization. This approach is a strong motivator - a new employee would be greatly encouraged by being rewarded for performance, and this approach also facilitates a healthy competition with more tenured employees."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"This is a classic question, isn't it? Experience and company knowledge are so important and are certainly of value to an organization, while performance is the documented articulation of an employee's value to the company. I believe the best compensation programs figure out a way to honor both, with the emphasis on performance. Doing so encourages good employees to stay, since they know they're valued for their tenure and experience - but it discourages people from getting so comfortable in a long-time role that they don't strive for their highest performance."
Written by Michelle Clark
21. What type of work environment do you dislike working in?
How to Answer
Everyone will have particular triggers that cause them to feel dissatisfaction on the job. Talk to the interviewer about any factors that may deflate or discourage you in the workplace, along with how you might overcome them.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have felt dissatisfaction on the job when I am not feeling heard or when there is a lack of respect among team members. I work best in more harmonious situations where there is little drama or gossip, and where people are aligned behind common goals. From what I understand, Kiewit fosters a respectful, inclusive and collaborative workplace with a strong sense of principles and core values, so that seems like a very good sign. How would you best describe the environment here?"
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have felt dissatisfied on the job when I feel that I am undervalued as someone who has good ideas and can improve the customer experience. Some employers don't necessarily value the thoughts and experience of front-line employees or empower them to solve problems to the benefit of customers. I'm very pleased with what I've learned about Kiewit's culture of empowering and developing employees, and I believe that will help me be engaged and successful here."
Written by Michelle Clark
22. Why is it so important for Kiewit to comply with significant regulatory requirements that apply to the company's business and operations?
How to Answer
It is essential to research Kiewit Corporation before your interview. Be sure to keep your answer positive and connected to the core values of the company and expectations within the industry.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"Because of the importance of the industries and markets Kiewit serves, plus the safety considerations, it's imperative that Kiewit comply with all regulatory requirements. I appreciate Kiewit's commitment to doing so; it makes a strong statement that the company openly acknowledges that anyone who suspects unethical or non-complain behavior has an obligation to report it."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Considering Kiewit's industry, full regulatory compliance is an absolute must. I appreciate the fact that Kiewit makes available resources for reporting or asking questions about suspicious behavior - like contacting management and/or the legal department, or reporting through the Compliance Reporting Line. Helping employees know exactly what to do in what can be very awkward situations can go a long way toward encouraging the compliant behavior the company seeks from its employees."
Written by Michelle Clark
23. Do you ever use your sense of humor to diffuse a situation at work?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you can diffuse a tense situation if needed. They also want to see a bit more of your personality! Stress and fast-paced work environments can cause people to feel overwhelmed and sometimes even angry or upset. Think of a time when you took a much more lighthearted approach to diffuse a tense situation.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"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 and allows everyone to shake off whatever's bringing us down and move on to the next issue to tackle."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Absolutely! Humor can go a long way toward easing work stress and bonding members of your team. In fact, in my previous position, I made a point to schedule 'laughter' on everyone's calendars once a day. We'd take a quick break, tell a funny story, watch a funny YouTube video, or just relax for about five minutes before getting back to work. We rotated responsibility for finding funny subject matter, and it was a tremendous bonding and stress-relief time for us all."
Written by Michelle Clark
24. In your opinion, what are the top 3 qualities every engineering/construction professional should possess?
How to Answer
When you list the top 3 qualities that every engineering/construction professional should possess you most certainly want to have personal examples. How do you display those specific qualities? This question is your time to assure the interviewer that you have what it takes to be a leader in the engineering/construction profession.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I believe that every engineering/construction professional should have strong attention to detail, be a bit of a perfectionist, and be able to multitask. This is a fast-moving and critical industry on which many people depend, so there isn't a lot of room for mistakes. Each decision must be carefully and methodically plotted out with repercussions fully considered. These are all areas of strength for me, and I look forward to bringing these talents to work for Kiewit Corporation."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Engineering/construction professionals provide the backbone of our country's essential infrastructure, so they must be extraordinarily methodical, operate with integrity and pay close attention to detail. You have to be able to trust that your professionals are committed to doing the very best work, the right way, that is in the best interests of the end user. If you hire me, I believe you will find that I fully exemplify each of these qualities."
Written by Michelle Clark
25. Have you ever had to terminate an employee? What was the reason for their termination?
How to Answer
Terminating an employee is never a task that people like to do. Talk to the interviewer about how you go about employee terminations. What does that conversation usually look like?
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have had to terminate employees in the past, yes. These terminations generally stemmed from missed targets or insubordination, all of which were carefully documented and discussed at length with both our Human Resources team and the employees in question. I find it challenging to terminate employees because I do care about them and their well being. I have to remind myself that I did absolutely everything I could to ensure their success, but I cannot carry the full weight."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Unfortunately this is a part of wearing your management hat. I recently had to separate employment with someone who was under-performing. We coached the employee in question, offered additional learning experiences and worked with them on a performance improvement plan. It was the right person in the wrong role, and we had to decide to move forward. While these decisions are difficult, in my experience, separation ends up being best not only for the company, but also for the employee involved."
Written by Michelle Clark
26. At Kiewit Corporation we know that efficiency is directly related to profitability. How do you accurately assess the progress of each project you manage?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your experience in assessing project progress. Are you able to remain on top of the needs of a project? Assure the interviewer that you can stay ahead of project needs and predict any possible productivity roadblocks.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"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, early on, the inefficient factors on a job site. In my most recent position, I was able to increase employee productivity, which directly resulted in faster delivery time and increased profits."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"Before I begin a project, I will map out a project blueprint and timeline. I refer to this timeline on a daily basis to ensure that I am on target, and I adjust as necessary. It's an organized technique that has worked incredibly well for me. I also go through and make a detailed labor costs budget, which I compare to actuals on a regular basis in order to keep costs under control."
Written by Michelle Clark
27. Tell me about your experience with ordering and overseeing the delivery of engineering/construction related materials and equipment.
How to Answer
Walk the interviewer through your experience when it comes to managing the flow of worksite materials and equipment. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of reducing costs associated with irresponsible materials management.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"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%. I have a solid understanding of the accounting principle of job costing, so I'm very comfortable estimating the right flow of equipment and raw materials for a particular job."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"I have approximately one year of experience in the acceptance of construction materials. In my current position I accept deliveries, ensure the accuracy of the orders and also quality check the accepted materials. 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."
Written by Michelle Clark
28. At Kiewit Corporation we put the safety of our employees first. How familiar are you when it comes to construction safety standards?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you understand safety construction standards and regulation. You also want to display to the interviewer that you put safety first.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I admire the fact that Kiewit Corporation puts the safety of its employees first. I am immersed in current safety standards for the engineering and construction industry. I do have a recent certification in Occupational Safety and Health Administration and am committed to applying that knowledge to a position with Kiewit. If there are additional pieces of training or certifications that you would like to see, I am happy to comply."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"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."
Written by Michelle Clark
29. Tell me about any experience you may have in overseeing the performance of other contractors.
How to Answer
Performance management and coaching experience will set you apart in the interview process. Talk to the interviewer about your experience when it comes to leading and coaching other contractors.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I have approximately two years 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."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"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."
Written by Michelle Clark
30. Do you have experience in determining labor requirements on large-scale construction projects?
How to Answer
Have you ever had a hand in hiring teams of employees for large-scale engineering and construction projects? Talk to the interviewer about any related experience and what it has taught you when it comes to smart hiring.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"In my most recent position I was responsible for hiring construction crews of 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, I have a firm understanding of the accounting principle of job costing, so I feel comfortable in my ability to forecast labor needs necessary to complete a project on time and on budget."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"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."
Written by Michelle Clark
31. At Kiewit Corporation we put a lot of pride into the core value of Jobs Done Well. What else can you tell me about Kiewit's core values?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you have done a bit of research into the core values of the company - what is important in terms of leadership and commitment. You don't have to go into a lot of detail, but try to show that you have a general understanding of Kiewit's core values and how they mesh with your own.
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"I appreciate Kiewit's core values of people, integrity, excellence and stewardship, and that they have remained in place since the company's inception. I'm particularly drawn to the company's focus on integrity, and I believe that for Kiewit, ethical behavior is more than words on paper. It is a total commitment involving every employee that crosses all lines of business. This is a key part of why Kiewit enjoys such an enviable market reputation, and I'd love to be part of that."
Written by Michelle Clark on October 28th, 2018
2nd Answer Example
"The core value that speaks most to me is Kiewit's emphasis on its people. I appreciate the fact that Kiewit is committed to hiring the very best and brightest people for its open positions and then continues to challenge and train them, so that they strengthen their skills to further the company's success. This is very important to me as I look for a new position; I believe I can thrive in an environment that supports my personal and professional development, all with the goal of better serving the company's customers."
Written by Michelle Clark