26 Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory 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. When have you contributed to an effort to obtain a corporate goal?
How to Answer
Engaged employees are always the most productive. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of being an involved team member by assisting, in some way, to the end goal of the corporation.
1st Answer Example
"My most recent employer had an extreme interest in giving back to the community. So much so that we, as a group, logged our volunteer hours and it was treated as another KPI. We would review our community contributions on a quarterly basis. Our goal was always to hit a minimum 500 volunteer hours per quarter which meant that everyone would volunteer one day per month. It was a great initiative and one that I happily participated in."
2nd Answer Example
"Everyday! The corporate goal is always my primary driver, in my current position. To be successful in my position I need to always be in tune with what my employer is trying to achieve, and be an active participant."
2. What lab equipment do you have experience working with and how would you rate your proficiency in learning new equipment?
How to Answer
In the varying types of environments that Lab Technicians can work in, there is a wide variety of equipment that needs to be learned and mastered to do your job effectively. While you may not have had exposure to every type of equipment you'll be working on if hired at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, it is important for you to demonstrate your ability to learn and become proficient in the equipment you'll be working on. Talk about the experiences you've had up to this point while explaining your ability to be open minded in training on new tools.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, my experience in the medical field has exposed me to working on microscopes, colorimeters, RIA's and other standard lab equipment like burettes, beakers and petri dishes. Since my studies in college, I've shown a great knack for being technologically advanced and I've always welcomed new advancements in our field. If hired for this position, my first priority would be to learn how to proficiently use all of the equipment needed for my job."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Throughout my career as a Laboratory Technician, I've been exposed to and mastered many useful tools to help me do my job and I look forward to doing this for the remainder of my career. Just last year, my current employer purchased an ion chromatograph to help better analyze water samples. Prior to coming to our site, I spent two days offsite training on the new machine. From the first day in use, I was able to operate and train others how to operate the tool."
3. Throughout your career, what types of roles and positions have you worked closely with and which roles are you most comfortable working with?
How to Answer
A consultant role with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory may require you working with CEO's, Presidents and high executive leaders of organizations and your interviewer is ideally looking to hear that you have experience working with this level of leadership and that you are comfortable in that relationship. If you have experience working with this level, draw on your experiences to talk about how you'll be effective in a consulting role with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. If you don't have direct experience working with this level of leadership, pull from your personality and your relationship building skills to project to your interviewer that you'll be comfortable in the consulting role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Since graduating from college, you can see that I've been employed with my current organization for almost 12 years. In my role, I've grown into the VP of Engineering role. In this role for almost three years now, I get to work closely with our CEO and CFO on upcoming projects. I have regular weekly touchpoints with each leader. I've learned that they look to me for expertise and we have a great working relationship because I speak openly and honestly in my areas of expertise. They continually tell me that they appreciate my no bull approach with them. I think the clients here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory will appreciate that about me as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Throughout my career, I've sat on different committees and led projects that involved our Senior Vice President and our Production Managers. I work really well with leaders at this level by speaking openly and honestly while asking a lot of clarifying questions. I regularly keep them updated on statuses of projects and communicating issues that may arise."
4. How do you get back on track when a schedule falls behind so you don't miss important milestone deadline
How to Answer
In the world of project management, it is rare that a project goes from the planning stages through to implementation without a hiccup or two along the way. As the manager of the project, you are ultimately responsible for keeping the project on task and your interviewer is looking to hear how you will do that for the clients at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. One important thing to consider highlighting is your ability to monitor and track progress regularly so the train doesn't get too derailed off the tracks. As well, you can talk about your ability to think on your feet, problem solve and coach others to bring tasks back up to date.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
Answer Example
"As an experience professional in project management, I pride myself on my ability to consistently monitor the progress of the project and spot where we may be falling behind on items. At those times, I work closely with the person or individuals assigned to that task to ensure that the job gets back on track. At times, this has involved me intervening and taking care of things that I can or reaching out to other resources for help. Milestones and deadlines are the key to the successful completion of a project and one missed item can create a bad domino effect that pushes a project back. For me, not letting that first fallen domino touch the next is the key to staying on track."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
5. Tell me why you are the right fit for Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and this position.
How to Answer
A successful hire needs to feel like the right fit by both parties. Express to the interviewer that you think this position is a stable fit for your experience and your career goals.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that I am the right fit for this company because, from what you have described, my personality, skills, and drive are what you are looking for. The challenges that come with this position are all challenges that I welcome. I am confident that this is the right fit for both of us."
2nd Answer Example
"I am great at what I do, motivated, and I am an avid lover of your product. This mix creates a great match, in my opinion! Happy employees are more productive and; trust me, I would be thrilled to work at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory."
6. At Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, we look to hire those who will be a long term fit. Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
How to Answer
It's impossible to know where you will be in 5 years but you need to assure the interviewer that, given all possible circumstances, you could see yourself as a long-term fit for the position at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
1st Answer Example
"Ideally, 5 years from now, I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization. My career interests align very nicely with your company's goals which helps me to see a great long-term fit here."
2nd Answer Example
"5 years from now, I would like to supervise or manage a team of my own with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. I feel like I am progressing in my career at a rate that will make this a possibility."
7. If hired for this position at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, what would be the ideal project for you to lead?
How to Answer
To fully understand the reasoning behind this question, your interviewer is looking to get a sense for what type of work you prefer to do, what your strong points are and where to best position you with clients if hired for the position. Prior to your interview, be sure that you research the clients of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and the typical projects that are led with them. Make sure your desires align in some aspect of the business and speak openly and honestly about your most desirable project.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"If I'm fortunate enough to come consult with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, my ideal project would be working with the leadership staff of a high profile employer on a corporate restructuring project that makes them more efficient and more profitable in a short amount of time. As you can see from my experience, I really thrive when working with high level leaders like CEO's and Presidents on what I would consider my greatest area of expertise."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Being passionate about manufacturing and technology, my ideal project would put me face to face working with a team of engineers and production staff to help implement the creation of a life changing product in the medical field. This area of manufacturing involves high cost materials and the need to produce items accurately and efficiently. My project management skills would thrive in this atmosphere."
8. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
How to Answer
On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?
1st Answer Example
"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as clear as I would like to be. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything."
2nd Answer Example
"I will rate myself an 8.5 because I consider myself a strong communicator. It is the foundation of all success in business. I am always striving to be a better communicator, so I leave the rest of the scale as an aspirational measure."
9. Outside of work, what type of creative activities do you like to pursue?
How to Answer
A genuinely creative minded person will have outside activities aside from what's happening in the workplace. Tell the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you express your creativity.
1st Answer Example
"Outside of work I like to attend dance classes and I also attend the odd paint and sip wine nights at a local wine shop. I also enjoy reading as a way of nurturing my creative side."
2nd Answer Example
"I think it's important to exercise creativity in a variety of ways. This reasoning is why I am involved in a variety of things such as team sports, reading, and art classes."
10. How do you stay organized and on track when working on a long-term project?
How to Answer
Working for Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in the role you are interviewing for will require an innate ability to manage projects from conception to final implementation. For this question, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you have the ability to maintain organization to meet deadlines and customer expectations. Talk about your personal methods for organizing project work and give any examples that you have of your methods being successful. In the consulting and advisory industry, customer satisfaction and word of mouth are integral to success and growth of a business and effective project management is key in satisfaction.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I really pride myself on my ability to multitask and my ability to stay organized in key in multitasking. For me personally, organization starts with using technology to my advantage and I do this through the use of my Outlook calendar and tasks functions. I take time each day to update my tasks and project work and use my ability to prioritize tasks to ensure that the right things are being worked on. In looking to bring these skills to long-term project work with your clients, staying organized and on task will be extremely important for the success of both Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and your clients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In my work, the ability to stay organized and on track comes down to having a plan of attack for each project and keeping track of the plan as milestones are hit. If you are familiar with the program Trello, it really helps me organize all of the components of the projects that I work on and give me the ability to track who is doing what, what deadlines are coming and what milestones have been hit. But even with a great program like this, I always have the ability to re-prioritize due dates and new tasks as needed with any project."
11. At Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory we provide services to a wide range of businesses. Which industry or business type do you have the most experience with?
How to Answer
In the commercial services industry, your experience with clients may be widespread. Talk to the interviewer about any particular industry to which you may have more exposure. If you have a specialty - now is the time to discuss your expertise. Whether you have experience in the same industry as Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, or not, be sure to appear confident in your capabilities.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that the majority of business that is coming to Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is related to XYZ. I have about four years of dedicated XYZ experience. The remainder of my work experience is with a wide range of clients and industries. I feel that these experiences have equipped me very well for a position such as this."
2nd Answer Example
"I have the most experience in the manufacturing industry. Approximately 15 years, in fact. I believe this experience will benefit me in this role with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory because I am well versed in best practices and manufacturing protocols."
12. Would you say that you are a goal oriented person on the job? Why would you say that?
How to Answer
Success in business consulting is most often measured in the achievement of goals for clients and for this question, your interviewer will ideally be looking to hear that you are driven by goals and that you have the ability to set them as well. In your answer, give your interviewer the sense that you are goal oriented by giving an example or two of a time where you set and worked towards a goal as part of a team effort. Explain your part in the achievement of the goals and your ability to stay focused on the end result.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"If hired for this position, one of the first things that you'll learn about me is that I am very driven to succeed in all that I do on the job. For me, personal drive definitely centers around goals and my desire to achieve them. I have the focus to set goals myself and to work towards goals that are set by my organization, my leaders or my customers and I would bring this ability with each client that I work with here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I would definitely say that I am goal oriented in the work that I do on a daily basis. In project management, I work off of both time related goals and production related goals and these really drive my daily tasks and my delegation of responsibilities to other team members. If given the opportunity to come work for Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, my clients would greatly benefit from my ability to both set and achieve goals with them."
13. What do you feel makes you qualified for a Laboratory Technician position here with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?
How to Answer
Based on your application and resume, your interviewer can get a really good sense for your experience and education. For this question, they are looking to hear from you directly on why you feel you are the best candidate for this position. Prior to your interview, be sure to research Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and the specific lab services that they provide and match your interests to that work. As well, be sure to point out that you are comfortable in a small, intimate lab environment as a detailed technician.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In looking to come work for Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, I bring a wide skill set as a Lab Technician. While casually looking for a new position, I love the fact that this organization does such great work in the food and pharmaceutical industries. My experience in sample preparation and pH adjustments in my current role would bode well in getting up to speed and productive quickly in this role."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Based on everything I've read about Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and learned from our conversation so far today, I would be very comfortable stepping in to the lab environment here. I am a very independent worker that can take work and run with it with little direction. As well, my experience in the hospital setting has prepared me for a more focused role in microbiology here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory."
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14. At Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory we seek to hire those who think outside the box. When was the last time you made a suggestion for workplace improvement? What was the outcome?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you are an engaged employee; offering suggestions and providing more profound thought when it comes to processing improvement in the workplace. Give an example of a time when you suggested an improvement in the workplace. It can be big or small! Did anything significant come out of your suggestion?
1st Answer Example
"Last year I made a recommendation for our office to incorporate a recycling program. We were going through a lot of single-use coffee pods. It bothered me how wasteful it all seemed. I presented a spreadsheet to my supervisor comparing the single-use pods vs. investing in a built-in coffee machine. The savings over two years were significant, and my boss has now presented my idea to our head office. It feels nice to be heard in the workplace, so I continue to keep my eyes out for opportunities for process improvements."
2nd Answer Example
"I made some recommendations for change in our CRM system. The suggestions were surrounding how items received documentation and how outstanding tasks became highlighted. Our head office made the changes and a lot of people in our office commented on how much they liked the changes."
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15. What roles are you comfortable assuming in working as part of a larger team?
How to Answer
Coming to work for a consulting business requires the ability to work as part of a larger team on the projects you will be heading. Teamwork in this setting requires versatility and your interviewer will be looking to hear that you have that versatility in your answer to this question. Many times, you will be taking the bull by the horns and leading the way. Other times, you will be the worker bee researching behind the scenes. You may be tasked with being the organizer of projects behind the scenes as well. Make sure that you highlight your ability to be flexible when working as part of a team here.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I am really comfortable working in any role within a team and I think my experiences throughout my career demonstrate this well. At many times in my career, I've been the legwork of team operations and have easily taken direction on projects and been able to hit pre-established deadlines. As well, I've lead many projects and have shown my ability to lead others in a team effort and the ability to delegate tasks and set milestones for projects. If hired for this position, you can be rest assured that I have the ability to be a key team players with your clients in helping better their business."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"From a very young age in my career, I've always been a natural leader in a team based environment. My excellent communication skills, honesty, critical thinking and decision making skills have proven time and time again that I can lead others in the most effective way possible. And while being a leader comes naturally to me, I can easily let others take the lead on projects."
16. Due to the nature of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory business and services we may ask that you complete a full background check. Are you willing to comply?
How to Answer
Many companies will ask for a background check before employing you. This due diligence could include a criminal record check, a credit check, a drivers' abstract, and education verification. The request will vary from company to company so you should always be prepared to comply with all requests. If there is a mark on your record, this is the best time to disclose that information.
If you have a clean record: "I can fully understand why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory would need to conduct background checks on all potential employees. I have a squeaky clean record and am happy to comply with any of your requests."
1st Answer Example
"I can fully understand why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory would need to conduct background checks on all potential employees. I have a squeaky clean record and am happy to comply with any of your requests."
2nd Answer Example
"If you have a mark on your record: "I can fully understand why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory would need to conduct background checks on all potential employees. I did have a charge against me approximately six years ago for a DUI. I have gained my drivers' license back since then, but I thought I should disclose that to you ahead of time."
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17. Talk about your ability to prioritize record keeping in the lab setting. How have you effectively done this in your past work?
How to Answer
Keeping and maintaining accurate records in a lab is vitally important, for many reasons. This is certainly no different at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. To give your interview a feel for how you prioritize and keep accurate records, talk about the steps you take in ensuring each specimen is recorded and labeled while also talking about any documentation systems that you have used in the past. Make sure your interviewer walks away knowing that documentation and record keeping is an important job for you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I am required to keep a notebook with my work that I do each and every day. In the notebook, I record all of the samples that I test. On a weekly basis, our department secretary enters important notes into an electronic record keeping system. Before moving on to my next task, I always ensure that I document my work before moving on. This ensures that my work is fresh in my mind and documented properly. Are you able to expand on record keeping procedures in the lab here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?"
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In the medical lab setting where I currently work, we have to document many things on a daily basis. I update medical records in our EHR on specimens that I examine. I am required to update maintenance and cleaning logs on all of the equipment that I use. I also am required to take temperature and humidity reading twice per day and document them in an online log that we use. All of these tasks are important in keeping our patient records accurate and our laboratory clean and safe."
18. Talk about a time you had to work with a very difficult person. What was the situation and how did you handle it?
How to Answer
At some point in any person's career, they have to work with a colleague or customer who is extremely difficult. Rather than looking to hear the fine details as to why this person was difficult, your interviewer will be looking to gain insight into how you personally handled the situation and others like it to ensure that a sound relationship was fostered even when you faced difficult circumstances. In your answer, some key things to focus on are your ability to be tolerant, understanding and a great communicator in these situations.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my current role, I have a customer that flies off the handle very easily if things don't happen just right and I learned this from my first interactions with him. In seeing this happen from the start, I have always maintained a calm demeanor when he was upset and showed empathy by asking questions about his expectations and how to fix situations for him. To this day, I expect difficulty from him when we work together and the years we've had a working relationship together have better prepared me for more clients like him in the future."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"A couple of years ago, a close colleague of mine had a very abrupt turnaround in her attitude and performance on the job. She was very curt and abrasive in conversations when she was normally very talkative and friendly on the job. After noticing some concerns in her work, I approached her with an open mind and asked her what was going on to cause these things to change. I showed concern and approached her as a friend and this approach prompted her to tell me about some issues happening in her personal life. By taking this approach, rather than getting upset or even made with her, I showed her that I cared and valued her as a person and my approach helped her open up and turn her life at work back around to the positive side."
19. What are the most common sterilization techniques you've used in a laboratory setting during your career?
How to Answer
In asking this question, your interviewer is very aware that there are many methods, each with their own pros and cons, in sterilizing a laboratory setting. With this question, they are looking to see the different methods that you are familiar with and why they work. But more importantly, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you understand the importance of a sterile setting and that you take priority in this in your work.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
Answer Example
"The method I use with my current employer is an autoclave system that applies both pressure and heat to our equipment to sterilize it prior to and at the end of each use. From my training on the system, this is the most effective method for killing microbial cells in a lab environment and ensuring that no future samples are tainted. Making sure that equipment is sterilized is a part of my mental checklist that I walk through with each sample and it has become very ingrained into the routine of my work."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
20. Talk about a time that you applied a new technology or new information to your work as an engineer?
How to Answer
During your career as an engineer up to this point, you've likely had to learn and work with new technology or information that has improved the way that you perform your work. Ideally with this question, your interviewer is looking to see that you are flexible in working with new technologies and/or processes as you consults across different businesses and industries. Prior to your interview, think of an example of a time that showed your ability to be open to new ways of doing things through advancements in technology and talk about why this ability is important in a consulting role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Having been an engineer for over 20 years, today's digital age has certainly altered the way that we work on a day to day basis and I've loved every minute of being on the forefront of these changes. In my current role, I am utilizing nanotechnology that wasn't available even five years ago to create UV resistant and waterproof glass that just wasn't able to be produced before. I'd love to help bring innovation to the clients here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in this consultant role."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"As a manufacturing engineer by trade, I've worked with many of the recent advancements in robotic technology to help boost production output and quality. Last year, I helped implement a new production line for light bulbs that utilized a fully automated assembly process where machine tenders were operating all processes from a touch screen. The project required a lot of research and education for my engineering team and we all welcomed that with open arms."
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21. Have you ever been involved in a lab audit process before? What steps do you do in your daily work to ensure that audits go as smoothly as possible?
How to Answer
In any industry that laboratories are utilized, the labs are subjected to scrutinizing audit processes to ensure that lab operations are safe, effective and operating within all aspects of laws and regulations. For this question, the main focus of your answer should be on the fact that you understand what an audit can entail and the work you do to ensure that your lab is in the best shape possible at all times should an unannounced audit happen.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
Answer Example
"Just a couple of months ago, the clinical lab that I work in was a part of a Joint Commission audit and our whole team was extremely proud after minimal findings in the audit. Having trained and worked in one of the best labs in the country prior to taking my current role, I knew the importance of having standardized processes documented and followed on a daily basis and the importance of standard record keeping practices. These really paid off during the audit and if hired for this position, one of my top priorities would be learning the laws, regulations and audit processes in a new lab industry."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
22. If you are hired for this position here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, what do you think the biggest hurdle for you would be from the start?
How to Answer
For this question, you can showcase your research that you've done on both Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and the role you are interviewing for by being upfront and honest about what you feel would be the biggest learning curve for you if hired for the position and giving your plan for how you would approach this hurdle. In your answer, make sure that you highlight your skills and abilities in making a molehill out of a mountain on your way to success in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"As you can see from my resume, most of my career experience is in the food industry. If fortunate enough to be hired for this position, the biggest area for learning for me would be the finance side of other industries like technology, telecommunications and healthcare. From day one, I would begin by thoroughly research the clients here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and speaking with as many industry experts that I know through business networking. While learning the ins and outs of other industries is the biggest learning curve for me, I see it as a great opportunity for me to become more proficient and effective in the work that I'd be doing for you."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"While this may sound funny to you at first, I think the biggest challenge for me from the start will be adapting to the great corporate lifestyle and culture here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. When I saw this position being open for applicants and I did my research, I was extremely excited to hear about the flexibility and openness to the ideas of your staff members. I've been working for six years in an environment that is very opposite of an open culture for new ideas and for me personally, it will feel foreign for me to bring new ideas to the team here and have them be accepted."
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23. A career move to a consultant with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory may find you working on new challenges that you haven't faced during your career. What's been the most challenging project you've led up to this point in your career?
How to Answer
No matter what challenge you choose to discuss during your answer to this question, keep in mind that your interviewer is mostly looking to hear how you handled yourself during a time when you were pushed to your limits. In your answer, discuss the importance of being resourceful and team oriented and talk about how these things helped lead to success in the project. Also, be sure that your interviewer walks away from the interview knowing that you are willing and able to tackle any challenge in front of you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Looking back at the 12 years of project management experience that I have, the most challenging project I led was about five years ago. The challenge started from the beginning when I was tasked with improving waste efficiency at one of my organizations warehouses. At the time, I was not very well versed in warehouse operations, so I took the time to research and talk to experts within my organization to start the brainstorming process. The high level leader that tasked me with the project didn't really do a great job of defining any end goals for me and those are really important in planning for a project. So I scheduled several follow up meetings with him to define more specific goals for the project. In the end, I assembled a great team of experts that ended up reducing costly waste by almost 80% in our operation."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I'd have to say that the most challenging project I have faced during my career was a project that assembled team members from different departments within a manufacturing plant operation. During the planning and kickoff process where we all met together, I got the sense that things would run smoothly and cohesively and was I ever wrong. As I monitored progress, I quickly noticed that we were getting off schedule on initial deadlines. In communicating out to team members, it became evident that internal communication at this plant was a struggle. As some team members told me in person that there was a lot of internal strife between some of the departments, I decided to call a project meeting to discuss my expectations for communications while also holding a team building exercise. I made it a priority to clear the air right away that bickering and childish behavior would not be tolerated and that we were all working toward a common goal that benefited everyone. Following that, the team building activity really helped make some eyes open up to who people were really working with. By taking the bull by the horns and putting people in an uncomfortable situation, a difficult situation turned into a team that accomplished a major task with ease and teamwork."
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24. Do you have expertise in working in a team based lab environment?
How to Answer
Depending on your laboratory background prior to this interview, you may be used to a smaller and more independent work environment. For this question, your interviewer is looking to gauge your experience and thoughts on working in a large lab environment at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. If you don't have experience in a larger, team based environment, there is no need to fret. Simply explain that you are a team player and talk about the roles you have played in a team based environment in the past.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I do have experience in working as part of a much larger team during my time working for the University of X five years ago. In this environment, our research projects were assigned in teams. In this environment, I was comfortable taking a lead role among my fellow technicians while helping provide guidance and representation from my colleagues to team leaders. If hired for this position, I would be very grateful to step back into a fast paced, team based atmosphere here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For the last five years starting my career out of college, I have worked as a Medical Laboratory Technician in a small clinical lab setting. While I have always found the work to be very rewarding and beneficial to other, my main reason for searching for a new career path was to be involved in a larger team environment like you have here at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. I am a people person by nature and would love to bring my skills to the team based efforts that you put out on a daily basis."
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25. At Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, workloads in our lab setting can vary on a daily and weekly basis. How do you prioritize your time on the busiest of days?
How to Answer
As you've likely experienced throughout your career up to this point, no two days are alike in a laboratory setting. For this question, your interviewer is looking to hear about your ability to plan and prioritize your work based on need while also having the ability to take on high need items that pop up throughout the day. If possible, try explaining this by walking through an example of a hectic day that you've had to deal with in the past that demonstrates your ability to be planned, flexible and accomplished at the end of the day.
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Honestly, the biggest aspect I love about my job as a Clinical Lab Scientist is the variety of work that I do. A couple of months ago, our lab had a Monday morning where we were slammed with a lot of high priority tasks that needed to be done by the following morning. I took the lead in getting together with our Lab Technicians in making a plan for getting everything done. My philosophy is always to focus on one task at a time and finishing it to completion before moving on the next task. This plan worked well through diligence, focus and teamwork and our Director was very pleased the next morning with the accolades that we received."
Written by Ryan Brunner on October 11th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"At the beginning of each work day, I take five to ten minutes to make a priority list of my work that day. I take into account the customer that needs the work done and deadlines when prioritizing. Being that my current organization works across multiple states and communication is almost solely electronic, I make time each day for working through email. More often than not, high priority items come up that need to get added high on my list and I am very confident in my abilities to prioritize work in any setting."
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26. We value accountability at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. If a customer sent a formal complaint about an interaction with you, how would you handle it?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are a person of integrity who will take responsibility for any shortcomings in the workplace. Briefly explain to the interviewer that you will handle Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory customers with great care.
1st Answer Example
"I understand that Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory has put a lot of work into building these long-term client relationships. If one of your clients complained about my communication with them, I would take full responsibility for my actions and issue an apology. I would also be open to feedback to avoid future incidences. Rest assured, in my 15 years of employment, I have not had any clients complain to my employer about my work ethic or delivery of service."
2nd Answer Example
"Constructive feedback is difficult to swallow at times, but it's helpful for me to remember that everyone receives constructive feedback from time to time. I will always do what is required of me to renew a client relationship."
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