What is API gravity, and how is it calculated?

"I understand there is a specific formula used to find the gravity of petroleum liquids from the specific gravity, also known as SG. The formula is: API gravity = 141.5/SG - 131.5. I also know that is the API gravity is 10+, it is classified as a light oil which will float on water. An API gravity under ten will sink and then becomes categorized as heavy oil."

API gravity is American Institute Petroleum gravity. In short, it is a measure used to determine the weight of petroleum liquids compared to water. Here, the interviewer is not looking for you to give a math or physics lesson. They want to know that you are aware of basic terms and what they mean. Keep your response brief, and easy to follow.

"What I understand about API gravity is that it's a measurement that calculates the gravity of petroleum liquids compared to water. This calculation is how oil becomes classified from light, medium and heavy for example."

"API gravity is how heavy petroleum is compared to water."

What can you tell me about the four major areas of Phillips 66's business?

"I've done a bit of research, and I know that Phillips 66 operates in four major business segments: refining, midstream, marketing and specialties, and chemicals. I can also tell you that Phillips 66 is one of the largest refineries in the world and that in sum, Phillips 66 offers unparalleled stability and reach."

The interviewer would like to see that you've done some research and can speak confidently in general terms about the specific markets/business areas in which Phillips 66 operates. This is your opportunity to highlight any research you've done in preparation for the interview.

"Phillips 66's refining business has a a global refining capacity of 2.2 million barrels of crude oil per day, which is astounding. In addition, the company's midstream business is essential to the value chain, whether related to crude oil, feedstocks or refined and specialty products. On the direct-to-consumer front, Phillips 66's marketing division delivers gasoline, diesel and aviation fuel through brands consumers trust like Phillips 66 and Conoco. And, last, the chemicals division allows scientists to develop everything from specialty chemicals to proprietary plastics. It's an exciting collection of business operations!"

"Phillips has four business segments, and they are refinery, midstream, chemicals, and specialties."

If you were hired today, what would you accomplish first?

"My first priority would be soaking up as much information about culture, process and KPIs as possible. I'd embark on a 'listening tour' in order to engage in deep conversation with my team and with my colleagues to discover the greatest current needs and how to prioritize them based on company goals for the quarter. Overall, I would strive to meet or exceed all KPIs for the business quarter as efficiently as possible."

When you start a new position, it is essential to set a goal on how you will make a positive impact quickly after being hired. Tell the interviewer what your impact goal is, should you be the successful candidate and hired at Phillips 66.

"If hired today, I would start with analyzing all quantifiable data from the last month, quarter and year to identify any challenges and set a plan to address them. I'd also look for team and company strengths in order to capitalize on or expand them in order to increase the company's bottom line. Overall, I'd be looking for patterns that help me make an immediate contribution to the team and the organization."

"My first goal if I was hired would be to start by learning the systems and where I could be an asset to each person in the department with my ultimate goal to be making the company look good. It may take a little bit of time to get everything down, but some of the immediate things I could start doing is checking the servers for good virus protection, checking storage, and learning what each person does in the organization."

What is the difference between a leader and a manager?

"A manager is someone who has a team of people who answer to them. That person simply has the responsibility of 'managing' the team's work. A leader, on the other hand, is someone of influence and, I believe, anyone can be a leader - no matter their job title or position."

The interviewer would like to know that you understand what makes a leader genuinely stand out. Just because you are a manager, that does not mean you are a leader.A real leader is someone who makes others want to jump on board with their mission and follow them. A manager is just someone who has people under them. To be an excellent leader, you should offer a balance between the two. You need to be able to have people buy into your vision but at the same time, show authority when necessary.

"To me, leadership is a mindset versus a title. A manager is more of a job title. Anyone can possess leadership skills, but a great manager will have leadership skills along with the ability to direct his or her team to success."

"A manager is someone that has people reporting to them, does reports, and reports to higher management. A leader is someone that is an influence for the team that is always doing what is needed and persuades the other employees to follow suit."

We work hard to keep a harmonious workplace culture at Phillips 66. Have you ever had a conflict with a manager? How did you resolve it?

"Nobody enjoys conflict in the workplace; however, I have experienced it before. In my previous position, there was a miscommunication with my manager related to my work schedule. He accidentally scheduled me on a requested day off, and I felt disrespected. I reacted faster than I should have because once we discussed it, I realized he had made an honest mistake. I am a firm believer that with mutual respect, conflicts can resolve rather quickly. I learned to slow my reaction time."

The interviewer would like to know how you react to a conflict situation, and how active you are in attempting resolution. Use a real-life example if you can. If you are newer to your career, this could include a case of a conflict with a professor (perhaps you disagreed with a grade you received). How you behave in a conflict situation will be critical information for the interviewer.

"I pride myself on being able to maintain a harmonious relationship with those who are considered my leaders. Anytime my relationship with a supervisor hasn't been amazing, I've made a lot of effort to adapt, including trying to understand what the supervisor values most and delivering it, making sure to keep my cool at all times, trying to anticipate his or her needs and adapt to preferences, and also taking every possible leadership opportunity in order to show my worth."

"I don't have conflicts very often, the only real instance that I can think of was when I was in college, and the manager scheduled me for time when I was supposed to be in class. I talked to him about it and was upset at first until I realized that he hadn't seen the schedule update that I had sent him for my class schedule that had changed. He asked me to find someone that can swap shifts and I did, we ended up covering the schedule without anyone losing any hours."

What have you done to improve your oil and gas knowledge in the last year?

"It is important to me that I continue to grow as a professional oil and gas administrator. This year I took an Advanced Excel course so that I could take my competency from intermediate to expert. The course has helped me immensely, and I am currently looking into a leadership workshop as well."

The interviewer wants to know that you are interested in your industry, and career growth, enough to take your professional development into your own hands. Even if your current employer does not offer perks like oil industry conferences or financial reimbursement for additional coursework, there is no reason why you cannot take the initiative. You could: - Read industry or career-related books - Subscribe to relevant podcasts - Enhance your education with an additional certificate - Attend a conference related to your career or personal growth - Teach yourself a new software program - Read established journals and websites on a regular basis - Find a mentor who is senior to you, in your particular industry or career path

"The oil and gas industry is always changing, and it's vital that I continue to gain knowledge, to keep up with the latest and greatest! I refer on a daily basis to a variety of energy-related journals and publications such as Oilweek, Midstream Business, and Gas & Oil magazine."

"I have been to ISHM in Oklahoma City several times, and I constantly work with product managers who know the industry real well. We are currently trying to stay up to date with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) requirements."

When given an important assignment, how do you approach handling it?

"When my supervisor gives me an important assignment or task I am sure to assess the depth of the project, then take a look at my schedule to see how I can appropriately balance it with my other work. I do not procrastinate because then it's easy to get behind."

The interviewer would like to know how you first approach a critical assignment. Are you the individual who will take an assignment head-on, or do you need to research and plan early? Do you jump in and get it all done immediately or do you balance it with other assignments? Talk to the interviewer about how you approach essential tasks at work.

"I lay out all the deadlines, figure out the deliverables and priority order, and then do all the research needed to make informed decisions. I keep a written "to-do" list and transfer project deadlines into my calendar to stay on task."

"When given an important assignment, I want to try to get it done as soon as possible. I would look at my schedule and see what else I have scheduled and if I can manage to squeeze in this assignment or if I would need to move something else that is less important out of the way. I would immediately start researching the assignment and get it done as soon as possible."

Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?

"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."

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.

"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."

"Both performance and experience are important. I feel that performance shows that the employee knows what they are doing and cares about the company. The experience is important because they may need that experience to be able to perform, but someone could perform really good without the experience and for that I feel that it should be rewarded. Existing employees should be rewarded for performing well."

What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?

"I understand that your work environment is very collaborative. I come from a similar environment and have found that I can be very productive when there is the 'buzz' of a team around me. I can also be productive in quieter environments although that isn't my preference."

The interviewer would like to know how to ensure a healthy level of productivity from you. Are you able to be productive in any environment or are there particular types of situations that you find distracting? Discuss your preferences with the interviewer. Be sure to research the kind of environment that offered at Phillips 66 before the interview.

"I work well in a high pressure, demanding environment that requires me to work smart and make my mark. I am competitive and love a significant challenge. How would you best describe the work environment at Phillips 66?"

"I work well under high pressure, and I am dedicated to the company that I work for as I always want to see the company succeed. If I am successful at succeeding then that makes the company look good as well."

How would you describe your written communication skills?

"My written communication skills are powerful. I often utilize written communications as a follow up to verbal communications. They provide a great resource for my FTE's and contractors to go back to, and reference, plus they might answer any questions that come up along the way."

Being a bright communicator, in written form, is an essential skill to master. Discuss any courses you have taken in communication, journalism, or writing. If you have a sample of your written communication in the form of a report of a work-related article, you can certainly bring that example with you. Talk to the interviewer about your written communication abilities and support your answer with a case or story.Here are some words to describe your communication skills: - Articulate - Crisp - Eloquent - Formal - Informal - Punchy - Succinct

"I have above average written communication skills. I am an experienced writer and have also written many successful quotes and RFP's in my career. I would describe my written communication skills as clear, concise, and thorough."

"I would say that I have really good written communications skills. There have been a lot of times where I have had to communicate with customers or vendors and I always make sure that I try to do so in an extremely thorough and professional manner."

What strikes you as unique within Phillips 66's efforts around diversity and inclusion?

"I love that your chairman and CEO says that diversity and inclusion are essential to who you are, what you believe and how you do business at Phillips 66. That kind of commitment from the C-level is heartening and indicates to me that this philosophy around diversity and inclusion trickles down from the top. I love the things your employees say about diversity and inclusion on your website as well - that they feel part of a collaborative environment that appreciates their unique contributions. This is the kind of environment I'm looking for."

Diversity and inclusion are key topics at any major corporation, and the interviewer is looking for your knowledge of how Phillips 66 uniquely addresses both within its company culture. Show that you have a general familiarity with some of the company's initiatives, along with how they align with your own personal values and expectations of the workplace.

"Diversity and inclusion are very important to me, and I'm certainly looking for an employer who is fully invested in making sure team members feel valued for their unique perspectives. Inclusion is a mindset that recognizes the needs of every individual and ensures that the right conditions are in place for each person to reach his or her fullest potential. From what I've read, I believe that the Phillips 66 culture encourages every employee to bring his or her personal and unique experiences into the work they do every day. This is the kind of team I'd like to be part of."

"Phillips 66 has the policy from the CEO to have inclusion and diversity. There is a good break down of people from all generations and walks of life that make up Phillips 66."

Why is this job with Phillips 66 right for you at this time in your career?

"I have been passively seeking a new position for quite some time and haven't jumped on anything yet because I want to make sure it's the right fit. I feel that this job is right for me, at this point in my career, because it offers an opportunity for me to utilize my new education in GIS while giving me an opportunity to advance in my management skills."

Discuss with the interviewer why you are looking to make a change, and how this particular role fits well with the changes that you are seeking. Be sure to give a more in-depth answer than the typical 'I am looking for growth'response that so many interviewers hear. Be thoughtful and draw upon the research you have done on Phillips 66.

"I currently manage a small team of 12 field operators and engineers. Although I love the work, I am ready to stretch myself professionally into an organization with more production capacity, and teams of 25 or more. This year I dedicated myself to taking two leadership workshops, which I feel greatly prepared me to take on the challenge of the work volume present in Phillips 66."

When have you had to make a split second decision? How do you react under unexpected pressure?

"In my current field admin role, this happens often! We handle a lot of contractor situations surrounding schedule and shift changes. Often, we have guidelines we follow, and there are also times when situations call for creative solutions. I make split-second decisions when resolving contractor matters, always keeping the best interests of the company in mind."

The interviewer wants to know how you handle pressure when an unexpected stressor arises. Being able to make quick decisions and think fast on your feet sets top-notch professionals out from the crowd. We all make a lot of choices every day, so start by telling the interviewer that you make a lot of quick decisions each day. Next, be prepared for a more significant example that will be sure to impress.

"My current position requires me to make tough decisions on a regular basis. I work well under pressure like that. With split-second decisions, I will always go with my initial instinct. Last week, I had two high-profile clients show up for a meeting at the same time. One client was late, and the other was early. I did not want anyone to feel bad for being late or too early, so I had each party placed in a different conference room. My colleague started the meeting with our early meeting while I met with the client who was late. It worked out well because I am no stranger to multi-tasking and I have great support staff."

"I work well under stress. I had a customer that received updates to their server, and we did not realize until all the employees were there that some of them were unable to access the data. After troubleshooting it, I found that some of the employees were not able to authenticate through the domain controller. I made a split decision to reboot the domain controller after letting the employees know that it would be unavailable. It came back up, and everyone was able to do their work."

When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?

"My first management job was the scariest time in my career! I honestly didn't know if I was doing my job well. I led by instinct, took leadership workshops, and spent a lot of time reading books related to effective people management."

Working in the oil and gas sector, you will often be expected to wear many different hats. The interviewer would like to know about a time when you were asked to take on a task for which you knew very little. Have you ever had to take on a responsibility or a role that you felt was over your experience level? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have dealt with this type of situation. Include the outcome, and what you learned.

"I was once asked to train an employee on a new SAP system that I hardly knew. To prepare, I worked overtime, watching online tutorials so that the new employee's training time was well spent."

Why is it so important that Phillips 66 engage in sustainable business practices and then report their results?

"I read through some of Phillips 66's sustainability reports in preparation for this interview. Having a plan for sustainable business practices and holding itself accountable is a must for any oil and gas company within the current business and consumer climate. Consumers expect companies to understand their environmental impacts and to make plans to mitigate their effects. Reporting results of sustainability plans goes a long way toward transparency and consumer respect."

The interviewer would like to see that you have a general familiarity with sustainability practices within the oil and gas industry and how Phillips 66 complies with, and even exceeds, them. Take some time before the interview to look through sustainability reports on the Phillips 66 website so that you can speak with confidence.

"Consumers want to be able to trust the companies they do business with. There's a great deal of research that shows consumers expect their companies to do business in an ethical manner, and particularly within the oil and gas industry, there's an expectation that companies do everything they can to minimize their negative environmental impacts. For Phillips 66 to transparently report what it's doing in support of sustainability, along with how those initiatives are working, can certainly help build trust and loyalty among customers."

"Sustainable business practices are very important to any business and especially with oil and gas. It is very common that oil and gas companies get bought up if they have too much debt, so sustainable business practices are vital to a successful business. It is also important to be transparent and show their results so that everyone knows how the company is doing."

Tell me about your education and how it relates to the oil, gas, or energy sector.

"My degree in Chemical Engineering has prepared me in a few ways. My degree came with a heavy focus on petroleum which included safety issue reviews such as blowouts, fire, and other hazards. I also learned a great deal about hydrate formation and decomposition, H2S, toxic gases, and safe transportation and disposal of petroleum wastes. I graduated with a 3.6 GPA and was also president of the Student's Union, rounding out my time with some leadership experience."

The interviewer would like for you to take a few minutes to highlight your educational background. You can mention your GPA, your major or minor and also any accolades and awards that you received during your university career. If you were involved in student-led clubs or other extracurriculars, you could mention that as well.

"I recently graduated with my Mechanical Engineering degree, where I focused my time on Mechanical and Industrial engineering applications. My GPA was a 3.8, and I made the Dean's List. My education has prepared me for a role with Phillips 66 in many ways including leadership, discipline and organizational skills."

"My degree is in Management Information Systems. I have been working at MPC for over five years with helping support their systems, and I have always been able to lend a hand to anything related to networking or operating system issues. I feel that my networking along with the oil & gas skills that I have picked up would be a big asset to Phillips 66."

Which is the leading publication or resource that you use for up-to-date news on the oil and gas sector?

"I like to stick with a few of the most reliable resources for oil news such as Oil and Gas Journal, RigZone, and Oil & Gas 360. Do you have any recommendations? I love to hear of new resources where I can learn."

It's crucial that you keep up-to-date on the latest news and changes within the oil industry. The industry is ever-changing, and you must be well-immersed to stay on top of your game. Luckily, there is a multitude of publications and resources available, to keep your knowledge current. It's a great idea to ask the interviewer if they have any suggestions for you to expand your knowledge base.

"My favorite publication for up to date news is Oil and Gas Journal. I also look for trending tweets on Twitter, and I follow several oil and gas companies on social media for up to date news. Do you have any additional resource recommendations? I'm always looking for new sources of reliable information about the industry."

"I mainly look at the Oil & Gas Journal and social media via Facebook & LinkedIn but would love to hear any suggestions that you have of a way to keep up-to-date."

What questions do you have for me?

"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?"

It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the Phillips 66 website and other online resources to ensure the queries you have are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers for from merely watching a video on their company site! Here are some sample questions: - When would you like to have this position filled? - How long has this role been vacant? - Is this a replacement search or a newly created role? - What is your favorite part about working at Phillips 66? - What is Phillips 66's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months? - Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you? - What do you see as the most significant change in this industry over the past three years? - Is there any reason why you would not hire me?

"A few questions come to mind, so thank you for asking. What's the next major project Phillips 66 is looking to tackle? I know you're seeking to expand this particular department, so I wonder what is next."

"Thank you for asking, I do have a few questions. Could you each tell me what your role is with the company and how I would be able to assist you if I was hired? What is the most important thing I could accomplish in the first 60 days? What do you like about working at Phillips?"

What do you know about Phillips 66's Strength Based Community Change programs?

"I read a bit about the Strength Based Community Change programs, and I'm very excited about what I learned. These programs help more than 10,000 families in Los Angeles each year. From providing childcare and early childhood education, job training and parenting support, to language training, legal assistance and many other programs, SBCC strengthens individuals, families and the community. I would love to get involved and to help the program grow beyond Los Angeles."

Show the interviewer that you have an understanding of how the company provides value within the communities it serves. Try as well to relate Phillips 66's community involvement with interests of your own.

"I love that Phillips 66 has joined the SBCC program in Los Angeles; I'd love to see the program spread even farther. Programs like SBCC help increase community engagement, build a sense of community and create a network of support, and I'd be proud to be part of such an effort. Making my community better is very important to me."

"The strength based community change program is a real great program that has helped tens of thousands of people and helps them by providing child care, education, training, legal assistance, and a lot more. I would love to be able to help with that type of outreach to the community."

What is OPEC, and why does it matter?

"From my understanding, OPEC is a governing body that coordinates and unifies the petroleum policies of approximately 15 countries. OPEC decisions play an important role in the global oil market."

OPEC is the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. It's an intergovernmental body with a mission to, 'coordinate and unify the petroleum policies of its member countries and ensure the stabilization of oil markets, in order to secure an efficient, economic and regular supply of petroleum to consumers, a steady income to producers, and a fair return on capital for those investing in the petroleum industry.'Show the interviewer that you have an understanding of OPEC and how it affects the way Phillips 66 does business.

"I understand OPEC to be an intergovernmental body that helps regulate the global oil market and international regulations. Could you share with me how OPEC affects the way Phillips 66 does business?"

"OPEC is the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, and it matters because they help stabilize the market on the oil and gas industry by creating rules and policies that all oil and gas industries must follow."

Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?

"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."

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.

"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."

"Everyone always wishes that their career would have progressed a lot further or a lot faster than it has. I am happy with the progression of my career, I never really pictured myself in the oil and gas industry but I am happy that my career progression has put me in the oil and gas industry as I like to be challenged with my knowledge."

Tell me about a time when you witnessed unsafe behavior in the field. What did you do?

"In my previous role I often saw co-workers engaging in dangerous work without taking proper breaks and rests. This overexertion is common in the field because people focus on getting the job done as soon as possible. If I witnessed this unsafe behavior, I would ask my coworker to take a rest and would offer to jump in, or call someone new to the floor to take over."

A few years ago, The RAD Group did a significant study related to workplace safety. They found that only 2 in 5 employees felt comfortable reporting unsafe behavior. The observation study also showed that the average employee performs three unsafe acts per week. The interviewer would like to know that he/she can trust you to report unsafe work or unsavory behavior in the workplace. The oil and gas industry has incredibly stringent safety regulations and Phillips 66 must make sure that they are hiring someone who honors their commitment to safety. Talk to the interviewer about the steps you would take if you witnessed unsafe behavior in the field. If you have personally seen some dangerous behavior, discuss the specifics.

"I recently saw a co-worker not wearing their proper PPE. Safety gear is non-negotiable, in my opinion, so I approached them immediately about their choice not to protect themselves properly. According to my company's regulations, I had to write a report on the incident. I trust it will not happen again. I understand these safety rules are in place for everyone's protection so I will do what I can to uphold the regulations."

"We have recently been doing a lot of construction in our office, so there are a lot of potential accidents that could be around there. One of the facility employees had an extension cord out that they were no longer using and was draped across the ground. I verified that they were no longer using that cord and asked them if they cared if I wrapped it up, so no one tripped over it."

Using the STAR method, tell me about the most significant problem you faced and solved.

"In my first year of working as an O&G administrator, I was asked to update and manage our Well Files into digital files. The job was daunting, so I broke the task alphabetically, and then by region. From there, I started to build the file database. The job took me about three months and, in the end, my manager was thrilled. The result was that the organized file system saved our department many hours of time when searching for oil-well specific data."

Many interviewers like to apply the STAR method during discussions with their candidates. If you are not sure what STAR is: - Situation: talk about a challenge you have faced - Task: an overview of what you set out to achieve - Action: a brief on what you did, or how you assessed the situation - Result: the outcome of the steps that you tookKeep your STAR example workplace related, and keep your response organized, helping you to avoid rambling.

"My previous company had an alarmingly high accident rate. As a safety specialist, I was asked to evaluate multiple processes, assess the problem areas, and create a program to resolve the safety issues. I studied every accident, going back six years. Compiling the data, I then analyze my findings, to source out the weak spots. Knowing the weakest areas gave me a baseline from which to work. The entire project took me about four months. The result was, 18 months later, our safety rate went up 35%."

"I had a green belt project that we had to improve the amount of time it was taking for the engineer to order (ETO) orders, they wanted to reduce the time by about half overall of the amount of time it was taking for the ETO process. I got together a team that was in the section of P.O. to scheduling the kick-off meeting and we found that there were issues with the communication and each person was receiving 30-50 Order Acknowledgement e-mails a day so they couldn't tell which ones were ETO. We were able to create a custom report that showed them what they needed and helped them to not miss any orders and helped with the deadline."

Phillips 66 has a serious commitment to safety. How will you help us to uphold this commitment?

"I read online that Phillips 66 has a range of programs related to safety, and I appreciate that safety is one of the company's core values. I will help you to uphold this commitment by delivering over and above expectations, completing my documentation fully and clearly, and by staying on top of industry trends and changes."

Safety is a vital topic in the oil and gas industry, and the interviewer would like to know that you are committed to helping Phillips 66 in their mission. Discuss the ways that you uphold safety standards in the workplace. Extra points if you can memorize the safety mission of Phillips 66.

"When Phillips 66 establishes safety as one of its fundamental core values, that really resonates with me. Values guide me, and I understand the importance of a healthy environment and a safe workplace. I take to heart Phillips 66's statement that 'when each of us commits to operating safely and working in the right way every day, great things happen: No one gets hurt.'"

"Safety is huge and I am extremely impressed to see Phillips 66 has a serious commitment to safety. With MCP, we have to do 4 hazardous conditions a year so I am completely familiar with that process and I always try to do more if I see more than just the 4 around the building. I am committed to helping the business operate safely so that everyone can go home to their family at night."

Phillips 66 operates in many countries. Are you eligible to travel and work around the world?

"I am eligible to travel and have no limitations when it comes to working around the world. My passport is valid, and I have a NEXUS border pass."

Phillips 66 may operate in a multitude of regions and the interviewer would like to know that you can accommodate their potential needs as you grow within their organization. Be honest with your answer, but as open as possible. If you have limitations, be sure to discuss them. If you are free and able to travel, you can keep your response straightforward.

"Could you share with me more about the travel component in this role? I am eligible to travel and willing to, as needed."

"I am able to travel and work around the world. With MPC, I do have limited travel that I have to do if a customer needs onsite assistance, and I am always willing to do what is needed to get the job done."

What can you tell me about Phillips 66's commitment to customer service across all of our business segments?

"From service stations and retail outlets to providing chemicals, specialty products and other solutions, it's clear that Phillips 66 has a long history of valuing its customers and operating with their best interests in mind. For more than a century, customers have depended on Phillips 66 for their oil and gas needs. It's refreshing to see a company that's been around so long and that has such a strong legacy of putting its customers first."

Show the interviewer that you can speak confidently about Phillips 66's commitment to its customers. You can find a great deal of information about this approach on the Phillips 66 website; you don't have to go into a lot of specifics, but just show that you've taken the time to do some introductory research.

"Phillips 66 branded fuels and services are some of the best known in the world. Your global brands reinforce your commitment to offering superior quality products and to putting the needs of the customer first. From asphalt and crude oil to real estate and other specialties, Phillips 66 has established a reputation for caring about its customers and consistently providing high quality products."

"Customer Service is huge, businesses wouldn't be in business without the customers. When I was in college, I was Assistant Manager at one of the largest Phillips 66 stations. It taught me a lot about customer service at a young age and those lessons have helped me become the person I am today. Customers need to be treated the way that yourself would want to be treated."

Do you think it is possible to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader?

"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 and ultimately comply with the leader's decision on a particular issue."

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.

"I have had team members disagree with decisions that I have made as a manager, and it does not bother me unless they are disrespectful about the situation. I think it's great to face challenging thoughts in the workplace and I welcome varying trains of thought. In fact, I believe that sometimes disagreeing with the leader is the strongest sign of a good team member. If someone disagrees with me because they have the greater good of the team and/or the company in mind, then I want to hear that. And as a strong leader, I need to hear it."

"Everyone has their own opinion, and it is bound to happen that people do not agree on the best way to do things. If it is done in a professional manner and respectful, I think you can disagree with the leader but kind of "agree to disagree" if you can't come to a mutual agreement. I would still follow the leader with what they are doing and try to assist them with completing the goal they want to do it."

This role requires extensive knowledge of pipeline systems and oil well machinery. How well do you understand this complicated equipment?

"I have studied pipeline systems for some time now, and have worked in the oil industry for approximately eight years. There are always new things to learn, as the industry is ever-evolving; however, I would rate my knowledge at an intermediate to advanced level. If there is any coursework that you recommend I take before starting with Phillips 66, I would be happy to comply."

To fully understand pipeline systems and oil well machinery, you will need to have many years' experience in the industry. Briefly discuss with the interviewer how comfortable you are on these topics. Be sure to list any courses that you have taken on these topics.

"I am newer to the oil and gas industry; however, I have taken some coursework including fundamentals of offshore and onshore pipeline systems and am confidently in my knowledge base. I am currently working toward my Pipeline Operations Certificate which includes studies focused on corrosion theory, measurement fundamentals, and inspection techniques."

"I have worked in oil and gas for over five years, so I have a pretty good understanding of it, but there are always things to learn."

With which industry-related computer programs are you most familiar?

"I have experience with several different computer software suites within the oil and gas industry - I've worked with NetSuite, Sage Business Cloud Enterprise Management, JD Edwards and Microsoft Dynamics most recently. I'm also comfortable with SAP Business. I also can easily learn new systems. Could you share with me which programs you use at Phillips 66? I would be happy to gain a head start by taking online coursework and tutorials."

The oil and gas industry has many options when it comes to computer programs, applications, and other software solutions. Speak briefly to the ones with which you're most comfortable. Also be sure to express that you can learn new applications and systems quickly.

"I am newer to my career so I would say that I am entry-level in most oil and gas related programs. I am tech savvy, however, and can learn these systems quickly. I am advanced in MS Office Suite and have used CRM's in the past."

"I help customers with SCADA systems, either by using our driver or by using Modbus I assist them in getting their data from the meters to their software. With MPC, I help support WinCCU, TDS, Voice Alarm System (VAS), TF.Net, and WebCCU. I also help technicians in the field working with their modems and radios to establish communications, sometimes it requires port forwarding on the modem or different configuration changes."

What can you tell me about the Phillips 66 vision and values and how they relate to your professional goals?

"I love that the vision of Phillips 66 is to provide energy and improve lives. At the end of the day, I do believe that that's what access to power does for people; it very simply and literally improves their lives. When this kind of vision is backed up by values like safety, honor and commitment, that's very meaningful to me. It indicates that Phillips 66 has the kind of culture I'm looking for."

The interviewer wants to see that you've prepared for the interview and can speak generally about the Phillips 66 culture and how it meshes with what you're looking for. Show that you can speak to the specific vision and values that are unique to Phillips 66.

"With values like safety, honor and commitment, I can see that Phillips 66 has the kind of culture and environment in which I can do my very best work. Taking a stand and making such a firm commitment to safety gives me confidence that the company values its employees and invests in best practices to keep them as safe as possible. Valuing honor and commitment is also important to me; that directly reflects on how Phillips 66 conducts its business and particularly how it treats its customers."

"I am impressed that Phillips values safety, honor, and commitment. I think that those commitments are important to allowing the employees to be able to achieve their professional goals in a supportive environment."

Phillips 66 Interview Questions

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1. What is API gravity, and how is it calculated?
2. What can you tell me about the four major areas of Phillips 66's business?
3. If you were hired today, what would you accomplish first?
4. What is the difference between a leader and a manager?
5. We work hard to keep a harmonious workplace culture at Phillips 66. Have you ever had a conflict with a manager? How did you resolve it?
6. What have you done to improve your oil and gas knowledge in the last year?
7. When given an important assignment, how do you approach handling it?
8. Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?
9. What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?
10. How would you describe your written communication skills?
11. What strikes you as unique within Phillips 66's efforts around diversity and inclusion?
12. Why is this job with Phillips 66 right for you at this time in your career?
13. When have you had to make a split second decision? How do you react under unexpected pressure?
14. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?
15. Why is it so important that Phillips 66 engage in sustainable business practices and then report their results?
16. Tell me about your education and how it relates to the oil, gas, or energy sector.
17. Which is the leading publication or resource that you use for up-to-date news on the oil and gas sector?
18. What questions do you have for me?
19. What do you know about Phillips 66's Strength Based Community Change programs?
20. What is OPEC, and why does it matter?
21. Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?
22. Tell me about a time when you witnessed unsafe behavior in the field. What did you do?
23. Using the STAR method, tell me about the most significant problem you faced and solved.
24. Phillips 66 has a serious commitment to safety. How will you help us to uphold this commitment?
25. Phillips 66 operates in many countries. Are you eligible to travel and work around the world?
26. What can you tell me about Phillips 66's commitment to customer service across all of our business segments?
27. Do you think it is possible to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader?
28. This role requires extensive knowledge of pipeline systems and oil well machinery. How well do you understand this complicated equipment?
29. With which industry-related computer programs are you most familiar?
30. What can you tell me about the Phillips 66 vision and values and how they relate to your professional goals?

Phillips 66 Interview Questions

1. What is API gravity, and how is it calculated?

2. What can you tell me about the four major areas of Phillips 66's business?

3. If you were hired today, what would you accomplish first?

4. What is the difference between a leader and a manager?

5. We work hard to keep a harmonious workplace culture at Phillips 66. Have you ever had a conflict with a manager? How did you resolve it?

6. What have you done to improve your oil and gas knowledge in the last year?

7. When given an important assignment, how do you approach handling it?

8. Do you feel performance should be rewarded over experience?

9. What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?

10. How would you describe your written communication skills?

11. What strikes you as unique within Phillips 66's efforts around diversity and inclusion?

12. Why is this job with Phillips 66 right for you at this time in your career?

13. When have you had to make a split second decision? How do you react under unexpected pressure?

14. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?

15. Why is it so important that Phillips 66 engage in sustainable business practices and then report their results?

16. Tell me about your education and how it relates to the oil, gas, or energy sector.

17. Which is the leading publication or resource that you use for up-to-date news on the oil and gas sector?

18. What questions do you have for me?

19. What do you know about Phillips 66's Strength Based Community Change programs?

20. What is OPEC, and why does it matter?

21. Have you progressed in your career as you have expected?

22. Tell me about a time when you witnessed unsafe behavior in the field. What did you do?

23. Using the STAR method, tell me about the most significant problem you faced and solved.

24. Phillips 66 has a serious commitment to safety. How will you help us to uphold this commitment?

25. Phillips 66 operates in many countries. Are you eligible to travel and work around the world?

26. What can you tell me about Phillips 66's commitment to customer service across all of our business segments?

27. Do you think it is possible to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader?

28. This role requires extensive knowledge of pipeline systems and oil well machinery. How well do you understand this complicated equipment?

29. With which industry-related computer programs are you most familiar?

30. What can you tell me about the Phillips 66 vision and values and how they relate to your professional goals?