29 NASA Interview Questions & Answers
1. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
How to Answer
NASA will require you to have exceptional communication skills. 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 believe there is always room to improve communication skills so for that reason I will rate myself as an 8/10. I have not received any complaints related to my communication abilities and am quite proud of my oral and written communication skills."
User-Submitted Answer
"I'd rate myself a 9. I've had a few of my reports say I'm the best manager they've ever had, but I don't ever believe that I'm a 10, because there is always something to learn."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Kevin Downey Reviewed the Above Answer
You are right - there is always more to learn! It would be great if you could expand on why your reports say that you are the best manager they have ever had.
"I’d rate myself a 9. I’ve had a few of my reports say I’m the best manager they’ve ever had. I found that super flattering, but it makes me wonder. All I can speak to is what I do to set up the team’s success. There is always something to learn. Maintain humility and transparency at all times. Give every member of your team every tool they need to do their job effectively. Give them the full vision of what they need to accomplish, and how their piece of the puzzle fits into the big picture. Give them ownership for their contribution to the team. Emphasize it is the team that needs to succeed and inform them about what that looks like. So, yes, I place great value on communication. Without it, nothing would get done."
2. How do you manage your time?
How to Answer
What tools do you use to stay on task and meet deadlines? How do you prioritize when everything demands your attention at once? Think about the ways you manage your projects and daily tasks. Do you keep a calendar? Do you set reminders? Sometimes a to-do list is helpful when organizing your time because it can help you prioritize what needs to happen next. Paying attention to which tasks require the most time and which ones bring the most value are ways you can pick and choose what needs to happen in your schedule. What are some ways you have found work best for you to manage your time at work?
1st Answer Example
"I will determine which project requires my attention by the number of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. Never have I under delivered on a deadline."
2nd Answer Example
"Time management has been something that I have worked on improving since my time in University. I set goals for myself and attached a time deadline for those goals. Also, I am diligent with the use of my calendar and have a great scheduling app on my phone that I refer to as well."
3. Are you actively interviewing with other companies, and are you close to offer stage with anyone?
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking for answers to a few points when asking this question.
1. The company wants to know what kind of timeline is present before you are scooped up by another organization.
2. They want to know how discerning you are with your job applications.
3. They want to know the types of roles that interest you.
4. They want to hear that they are your top choice.
You can certainly discuss your search but avoid giving too many details. Give the interviewer enough to satisfy the question without revealing your entire search. Some mystery is okay here.
1st Answer Example
"I recently started my search and had found some interesting job postings related to my degree; however, this role in the Mission Systems Engineering department is the position I am most enthusiastic about."
2nd Answer Example
"If you are not interviewing: "I just started my search, so I am not in final interviews with any other company. I am aggressively seeking; however."
4. Do you believe it is possible to be a good team member yet disagree with the leader?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you can be diplomatic in the workplace, even when you may not agree with your leader.
Show the interviewer that it is possible for you to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader from time to time. Explain that you believe everyone is entitled to their own professional opinion, yet capable of maintaining respect for each other at the same time.
Show that even if you disagree with the final decision they make, you support the direction the team is heading.
1st Answer Example
"I think that it is possible to be a great team member, even when disagreeing with the leader. It's all in how you maintain respect for each other despite the difference in opinion."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I think it is possible! What makes a great team member is not that they agree with everything but the level of respect and positive thought that goes into the person's communication style. It's okay to disagree; however, you have to communicate your thoughts professionally."
5. Looking at your resume, I see multiple gaps between employments, what were you doing during those gaps?
How to Answer
There are many reasons for having a gap in your resume, and it's best, to be honest about the intentions.
1st Answer Example
"I had a gap from 2009-2010 while I was on maternity leave and then another for six months in 2015 while I cared for an ailing parent. During that time I was vigilant in keeping up to date on the market so that my knowledge did not become redundant."
2nd Answer Example
"If your employment gap is due to illness: "I took a medical hiatus between 2008 and 2008 under doctor's orders. I am fully recovered and have had zero health concerns since."
6. What is your current salary?
How to Answer
NASA may base their offer on your current salary; however, they are known for offering generous compensation. You should be transparent about your most recent earnings and be prepared to back up any salary requests.
If you are currently employed: "I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000, plus a car allowance of $900/month, and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."
1st Answer Example
"I am currently earning a base salary of $78,000, plus a car allowance of $900/month, and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."
2nd Answer Example
"If you are currently unemployed: "My most recent position paid me a base salary of $45,000 plus overtime and health benefits. I am looking for a competitive salary in my next position."
7. How often do you think of innovations that will improve your work performance?
How to Answer
NASA is arguably one of the most innovative organizations on the planet. They want candidates who are creative thinkers. Coming up with ideas to increase productivity, efficiency and save time and energy is a great way to make an impact on your coworkers and the company.
Having the ability to see problems as opportunities is a skill that can make you an essential asset to a company. Think of a time you had a chance to make a difference by making a change in a process or procedure.
1st Answer Example
" I would say that at least once a month I have an idea, big or small, that I present to my manager. My most recent innovation was (give a detailed example)."
2nd Answer Example
"I am always thinking of new ways to increase productivity and improve the methods I use to complete my work."
8. Your workload will be large at NASA. How do you balance life and work?
How to Answer
It is essential to keep a healthy work/life balance to prevent burnout. Talk to the interviewer about how you can maintain that appropriate balance for yourself.
1st Answer Example
"I find that with the right company, it's pretty simple to balance life and work. When I enjoy what I do, it doesn't feel like a chore. I am always sure that when at home, my family gets my attention first. I take time on the weekends to do things for myself and ensure that I regenerate before the work week begins. I appreciate that you have programs in place to ensure a balance for your employees, as well."
2nd Answer Example
"Not every day will be balanced, and I understand that. I find that I can achieve a great work/life balance most days when I take some time to do something for myself. Whether that be a quick workout, or cooking a delicious meal when I get home."
9. How have you demonstrated leadership ability when you were not in a leadership role?
How to Answer
This question challenges you to think about how you act as a leader in your daily life. Even if you're not leading a team, you can still demonstrate the qualities of a leader! You can give an example of how you coached a coworker who was having difficulty preparing for a big presentation. Maybe you gave them confidence in their strengths by encouraging them, or perhaps you offered some helpful hints. You can be a motivator and a confident communicator in any situation at work! Share how you have positively influenced others through actions you've taken to support and motivate others at work.
1st Answer Example
"I demonstrate leadership qualities every chance that I get! I believe that everyone can be a great leader if given the right environment and opportunity. I appreciate that NASA invests in their employees by giving leadership opportunities whenever they are available."
2nd Answer Example
"I naturally take on a leader and mentor-ship type of role with my co-workers. In one instance, I had a new coworker who was having some troubles fitting in. I took her out for lunch and talked to her a bit about the workplace culture and semantics surrounding the various departments. I wanted her to stay and enjoy her employment with us, so I took the responsibility of ensuring she was settling in well. I believe there are always opportunities for leadership - you have to keep your eyes open."
10. How do you define success?
How to Answer
NASA is an incredibly successful organization, and they know that success breeds success. What does success mean to you? Tell the interviewer how you see progress and be sure to tie your answer into the success that you plan to bring to this particular position, should you be offered the role.
1st Answer Example
"I define success by my ability to reach the goals that are set out for me. On a personal level, the things I wish to achieve in my life. On a work level, the targets that are set out for me as well as the professional development that I seek."
2nd Answer Example
"Success is the completion of any task you set out to do or any goal that you set for yourself. Success receives interpretation in many different ways but I know I have been successful when I feel that relief and contentment only accomplishment can bring."
11. How do you think your early career will help you succeed in this position?
How to Answer
Did you start working at a young age? Perhaps you have held some tough jobs earlier in your career? Many hiring managers agree that the best employees are ones with 'grit' and who have held a 'dirty job' or two in their lives. Talk to the interviewer about your early work experience.
1st Answer Example
"I have been working since I was just 14 years old. My first job was as a shop hand for my father who was a mechanic. I had to sweep, clean, greet customers and order parts. It was a great way for me to get my hands dirty and I was taught excellent customer service skills from an early age. Everything that I learned during that time has helped me to stay grounded and humble in my career."
2nd Answer Example
"I started my career working in an office, so I was able to quickly understand how important it is to stay organized and maintain clear communication with everyone on the team. I believe my early experience will help me succeed in this position because it caused me to form good habits from the beginning."
12. If you were given a choice, which work related task would you leave for last? Why?
How to Answer
Often we will leave the tasks that we don't like for last, in the act of procrastination. Other times, we will mindfully move responsibility for last because we feel that it makes the most sense. Help the interviewer to determine which personality type you are by answering this question.
1st Answer Example
"If given a choice, I would leave my documentation tasks for last. I say this because I like to spend my time with my customers so anything to do with documentation during business hours - I feel takes away from my client-facing tasks. I do understand the importance of it, though."
2nd Answer Example
"I would leave my email to last! I find that once I am in my email, it's a never-ending whirlwind of small replies and to-dos. For this reason, and to remain focused and productive, I will schedule my email time periodically throughout the day."
13. How do you like to encourage ideas in others?
How to Answer
NASA runs off of creativity and thinking outside of the box. Encouragement to others is a great skill to possess because it also fosters creativity. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to encourage creative ideas in your team members.
1st Answer Example
"I like to encourage other people to be creative in their thinking and present ideas to the company, no matter how off the wall they may seem. Some of our most successful employees are ones who are confident in their ability to bring forward their unique ideas. I encourage participation through an open door policy and strong praise for those who show initiative."
2nd Answer Example
"I encourage others by praising their great ideas and helping them to continue being their best self. Noticing the small things is important. People want to feel like their contribution is important to the overall workplace success."
14. Tell me about an achievement you are proud of. What did you find challenging about it?
How to Answer
Sometimes a great achievement is completing a difficult task and overcoming the obstacles that come up along the way.
When faced with an impossible deadline and regular interruptions that cause you to have to switch gears every thirty minutes, completing a simple project can seem like climbing a mountain!
You have a couple of options for how to approach this: Discuss an example of when you overcame obstacles to achieve something great, or share a significant accomplishment or award you received and talk about what was challenging about it.
Either way, you are showing your determination and focus on reaching your goal. Think of a situation that highlights your strengths and qualities that will be helpful for the job for which you are interviewing. Try to keep it as career relevant as possible.
1st Answer Example
"My greatest career accomplishment is the fact that, in my current company, I gained a promotion faster than anyone in the organization's entire history. I received accolades from the VP of Sales in front of the entire company, which was an extraordinary moment. Exceed expectations, being promoted, and then financially ahead of where I initially expected, was exhilarating."
2nd Answer Example
"One achievement that I am proud of is graduating University as an honors student while still working full time. This accomplishment showed me that I could dedicate myself to my career, and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and earn recognition for my dedication."
15. Looking at your resume, it seems there are particular skills necessary for this position that do not stand out. How do you think you will be able to compensate for these missing skills?
How to Answer
Most job descriptions will have a long list of requirements. Hiring managers are aware that, to find a candidate that checks ALL of the boxes, can sometimes be impossible. If you are missing some of the 'nice to have' or even the 'must have' skills listed in the job description, do not fret! Be open about your shortcomings and discuss with the interviewer how you plan to compensate for those.
1st Answer Example
"I realize that I may not check off all of the boxes for this position; however, I can assure you that I am a rapid learner. The main experience I am missing is in X-Ray Astrophysics, but I am very well versed in aerospace engineering. I think that I can pick up the required knowledge quickly."
2nd Answer Example
"I would be happy to clarify my experience in any skills. Could you tell me which skills you feel I am missing for this position?" (Once the interviewer responds, you can overcome that objection by better highlighting that specific experience, or discussing a related skill that you DO have.)"
16. At NASA we seek to hire only those with aerospace experience. Are you more experienced in the private or public aerospace industry?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you have experience in the industry; whether your aerospace experience comes from private or public entities. If the job description or job posting from NASA points out a preference of one over the other, it is wise to focus your answer on that particular experience.
1st Answer Example
"I noticed in your job posting that you prefer to see experience in the public aerospace sector. I do have experience in both public and private; however, the most recent three years of my work experience is in the public sector. I also bring a couple years' experience working for a government entity."
2nd Answer Example
"I can say that I have equal experience in both public and private aerospace matters. Is there a specific sector where you would prefer to see stronger experience? I would be happy to highlight that experience for you, further."
17. Who would you say inspires you?
How to Answer
Show you preparedness for the interview by having an immediate answer. The only wrong answer here is, 'I don't know.' In most discussions, you will get one or two personal questions to see how you present yourself. You want to be able to articulate yourself well, responding politely and even passionately when appropriate. An excellent way to respond to this question is by sharing a story about a person who has been a positive influence on you and your career. If your dad motivated you to push through to finish your education, talk about how that impacted you. Who showed you that it was possible to overcome even the most significant obstacles? Who taught you the skills that brought you where you are today?
1st Answer Example
"My previous manager was a huge inspiration to me. Her passion for the aerospace industry was motivating and put the fire in me to climb the ladder in my career."
2nd Answer Example
"I have always been inspired by my grandfather. He is the person who gave me an initial interest in the aerospace field. He is the hardest working person I know, and he taught me how important it is to read and continually grow. Because of him, I always seek to learn."
18. 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. When you work for an organization like NASA, there will be no limit to where you can go!
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."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am happy with my career progression. I have always been the type to set out a detailed plan for myself and take the required action steps to get there. This engineerng position with NASA is most definitely in line with my expected career progression."
19. Would you say you focus more on reasons why change will not work rather than adapting to new changes?
How to Answer
Changes will occur on an hourly basis when you work for an organization as huge and technical as NASA. When a change occurs in the workplace do you view it positively or do you resist the change? Talk to the interviewer about how you adapt to change.
1st Answer Example
"When a change occurs I initially try to balance the pros and the cons before reacting. Overall I would say that I prefer to focus on why the changes will work. I am a positive person by nature."
2nd Answer Example
"Some changes can be tougher to accept immediately than others. Once I understand the motivation or the goal behind the change, I can easily adapt."
20. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
We all like recognition in some way for our accomplishments in the workplace. Share with the interviewer how you would want credit for your hard work. Some options can be through bonus' or financial perks, public recognition, kind words, or promotion opportunities.
1st Answer Example
"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is through words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged, and the best reward for me is to know that my hard work makes a difference."
2nd Answer Example
"I feel that most achievements are due to the great work of a team. If I gain recognition for my accomplishments, I always prefer that my team be a part of that recognition as well. Words of encouragement are always motivating."
21. Many of our industry competitors have their employees under a non-compete contract. Are you bound by any non-compete contract with your current employer?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to avoid any hurdles during the offer and negotiations stage that would prevent you from being successfully on-boarded. If NASA is a direct competitor to your current or most recent employer, then you should carefully review your employment contract to ensure nothing is hindering you. Be prepared to present the agreement in your late stage interview.
If you are under a non-compete contract: "I am under a non-compete contract with Company ABC; however, it specifically states that I cannot share any trade secrets or recruit any of their current employees. There is nothing in the contract hindering me from joining NASA."
1st Answer Example
"I am under a non-compete contract with Company ABC; however, it specifically states that I cannot share any trade secrets or recruit any of their current employees. There is nothing in the contract hindering me from joining NASA."
2nd Answer Example
"If you are not under a non-compete contract: "I am free to sign any offer letter that comes my way as there is no such contract with my current employer."
22. Confidentiality is of utmost importance to us at NASA. Are you willing to sign a confidentiality agreement, if hired?
How to Answer
Many companies involved in Aerospace and Defense have sensitive information. Assure the interviewer that you are a trustworthy individual who can handle being under a confidentiality agreement with NASA if hired. With NASA being a government agency, you must be prepared to go through an even more stringent confidentiality process.
1st Answer Example
"I am a highly trustworthy person. My background includes many years of experience working on sensitive projects. I fully understand the desire that NASA has to protect their data and am more than willing to sign a confidentiality agreement."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am willing to sign a confidentiality agreement with NASA, anytime in this process. I am in full cooperation."
23. We are looking for specific post-secondary education for this role. Tell me about your post-secondary education and how it will help you in this position with NASA.
How to Answer
It is vital that you check the job posting or job description provided by NASA to ensure that you have the proper educational requirements. If you do not bring the desired degree or certification, be prepared to defend your education and remind them why you are still the best candidate for the job!
If you have the desired education: "I saw on your job posting that you are looking for candidates with a degree in Aerospace Engineering. I have my degree in Aeronautical Engineering from an accredited University. My education will be helpful in this role as it is directly related to your company's focus."
1st Answer Example
"I saw on your job posting that you are looking for candidates with a degree in Aerospace Engineering. I have my degree in Aeronautical Engineering from an accredited University. My education will be helpful in this role as it is directly related to your company's focus."
2nd Answer Example
"If you do not have the desired education: "I have a Graduate Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Although my degree does not boast a primary focus on Aerospace, I do have significant industry training outlined on my resume."
24. Our goal is to be the top rated organization in aerospace. After researching NASA, what do you think we could improve on?
How to Answer
If the interviewer at NASA asks for your feedback on what they could improve on it is best to keep your answer positive and light. Be sure to start, and finish, your suggestion with a compliment on what they are doing right.
1st Answer Example
"I have conducted a great deal of research on NASA before meeting you today. I like your branding, and your online presence is strong. If I could make a suggestion, it would be to have a confirmation email sent to all online job applicants. I found the career site a bit difficult to navigate and was not sure that my initial application went through successfully. Luckily, the NASA HR department was amazing, and they called me just a few days later for a pre-screen interview."
2nd Answer Example
"If you could improve on anything, I would recommend updating the website a bit more frequently and adding an easier access blog for aerospace enthusiasts. Aerospace and defense is a popular topic for research, and you could gain many website visitors by putting a greater emphasis on your online content."
25. At NASA we have some strong competitors. In your opinion, what makes us stand out from the others?
How to Answer
It is essential to research NASA before your interview. Through that research, be sure to study some of their competitors and why you feel NASA stands out from the crowd. Visit the 'Technology' and 'History' section on the organizations' website to find out details.
1st Answer Example
"I know that there is some competition between NASA and SpaceX, and perhaps even the ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) however, after reviewing your website, a few recent articles, and seeing your multitude of awards I feel that working for NASA would be a real honor and great step in my career. You stand out from the crowd for being the first in many breakthroughs and being an incredibly strong branch of the US government."
2nd Answer Example
"The NASA organization stands out in many ways. What impressed me the most was your safety record, employee tenure, and growth opportunity. When it comes to your competitors, such as SpaceX and the ISRO, would you agree that these are stand-out areas for you? I would love to hear more about NASA's competition plan."
26. Because of the nature of business at NASA we conduct background checks on employees. This includes criminal background, credit, and education verification checks. Are you willing to comply?
How to Answer
Most companies in the aerospace and defense industry need to be very cautious about who they hire. There is a chance that much of the information you are going to access could be confidential and dangerous if put into the wrong hands. Assure the interviewer that you are most willing to comply with any form of background check they require.
1st Answer Example
"I am happy to comply with any background check required. My record is clean, and I have a strong credit history. I do not participate in drug use, either. You can rest assured that if you hire me for this role with NASA, I will maintain a clean record."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am willing to comply with any background checks that you require here at NASA. I understand the importance of background checks, especially when working in a government program, and aerospace."
27. There are numerous career avenues you can take with NASA. Which career path interests you the most?
How to Answer
It is essential that you thoroughly research NASA before your interview. Be sure to examine their careers section, any additional locations, and the variety of departments or business units they may have. You can then accurately assess the potential growth opportunities with NASA. Discuss your career growth and desires with the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"I saw on the NASA careers website that you are looking for a Program Specialist for your Wind Tunnel Division. I am not yet at the GS-13 or GS-14 grade level; however, it interests me. I would love to be considered for a role like that with NASA in the future."
2nd Answer Example
"My primary goal is to become a Physical Scientist at NASA within the next five years. I am taking additional coursework in flight programming and project oversight to gain the required skills. Do you feel this is an achievable goal?"
28. In your opinion, what is the biggest breakthrough in the aerospace and defense industry in the past decade?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to ensure that you hold strong knowledge, and genuine interest, in the aerospace and defense industry. If you are familiar with the industry, you will know about some of the latest industry breakthroughs. Briefly discuss which one has caught your interest the most.
1st Answer Example
"There have been endless breakthroughs in our industry; however, I would say the one that excited me the most this year was NASA's Magnetospheric Multiscale spacecraft detecting magnetic activity in turbulent space near earth. I read all about this discovery - it was fascinating."
2nd Answer Example
"The biggest recent breakthrough in our industry, in my opinion, was NASA finding ancient organic material and methane on Mars. NASA has had many breakthroughs over the years. May I ask which was your favorite breakthrough as of late?"
29. The aerospace and defense industry is ever-changing. At NASA we seek to hire individuals with a keen interest in this industry. How do you stay up to date on aerospace related current events?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to confirm that you have a genuine interest in the aerospace and defense industry. Perhaps you read aerospace-related books, follow particular engineering journals or subscribe to a blog related to this industry. Briefly share with the interviewer how you stay up to date on current events related to NASA.
1st Answer Example
"I am always interested in learning more about this industry and the changes that are taking place. It's truly fascinating. Most frequently, I read the International Journal of Aerospace Engineering. There are also a couple of blogs that I follow including www.aviationweek.com and, of course, the stories on the NASA.gov website."
2nd Answer Example
"Staying up to date on aerospace-related events is quite easy with a couple of phone applications I have downloaded, and a few blogs to which I subscribe. I recently downloaded the NASA education app and the NASA Visualization Explorer app. I would love some new suggestions as well! Do you have any strong recommendations?"