31 SNC Lavalin Group Interview Questions & Answers

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to know if you have taken any formal education and training related to the engineering/construction industry. This question will help the interviewer to assess your commitment to the company and industry.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

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

How to Answer

Organization in the engineering and construction space can save a lot of time and money. This skill is of immense value to any employer. Assure the interviewer that you are a well organized and thoughtful planner.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

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

How to Answer

Have you ever had a hand in hiring teams of employees for large-scale engineering and construction projects? Talk to the interviewer about any related experience and what it has taught you when it comes to smart hiring.

1st Answer Example

"In my most recent position I was responsible for hiring construction crews up to 25 people at a time. I understand the importance of hiring well-qualified individuals who have a reliable track record. Last year our retention rate increased by 24% once I began leading our hiring initiatives."

2nd Answer Example

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

How to Answer

Performance management and coaching experience will set you apart in the interview process. Talk to the interviewer about your experience when it comes to leading and coaching other contractors.

1st Answer Example

"I have approximately two years experience when it comes to leading and coaching other contractors. In my most recent position, I led a team of 25 employees ranging from general laborers to junior project managers."

2nd Answer Example

"My experience in overseeing other contractors includes my current team of 4 tradesmen. I review their work throughout the day and do random safety checks. I enjoy working in this type of role because I am a natural leader and mentor. I especially enjoy training junior tradesmen."

How to Answer

Assure the interviewer that you understand safety construction standards and regulation. You also want to display to the interviewer that you put safety first.

1st Answer Example

"I admire the fact that SNC Lavalin Group Inc. puts the safety of their employees first. I am very immersed in the current safety standards for the engineering and construction industry. I do have a recent certification in Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and am committed to applying that knowledge to a position with SNC Lavalin Group Inc.. If there are additional pieces of training and certifications that you would like to see, I am happy to comply."

2nd Answer Example

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

How to Answer

Walk the interviewer through your experience when it comes to managing the flow of worksite materials and equipment. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of reducing costs associated with irresponsible materials management.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

"I have approximately 1-year experience in the acceptance of construction materials. In my current position I accept deliveries, ensure the accuracy of the orders and I also quality check the accepted materials. In my next position, I would like to be involved in the ordering of materials as well as the vendor relationship building that comes with that."

How to Answer

Talk to the interviewer about your experience in assessing project progress. Are you able to remain on top of the needs of a project? Assure the interviewer that you can stay ahead of project needs and predict any possible productivity roadblocks.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

"Before I begin a project, I will map out a project blueprint and timeline. I refer to this timeline on a daily basis to ensure that I am on target. It's an organized technique that has worked incredibly well for me."

How to Answer

Employee termination can be an awkward and uncomfortable task. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of being the pragmatic leader that they need.

1st Answer Example

"I do have experience with employee termination. Although this is a task that no leader loves to do, I am confident in my ability to communicate with underperforming team members. I do not shy away from uncomfortable tasks such as employee terminations and exit interviews."

2nd Answer Example

"I have not been responsible for terminating an employee in the past; however, I do know that this is a task I would be capable of doing. I can give constructive feedback. My knack for giving direction, but also being a dedicated mentor, would make me a person of positive influence when it comes to employee relationships."

How to Answer

When you list the top 3 qualities that every engineering/construction professional should possess you most certainly want to have personal examples. How do you display those specific qualities? This question is your time to assure the interviewer that you have what it takes to be a leader in the engineering/construction profession.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

"Here are some qualities an engineering / construction professional should have:

- Solid negotiation skills
- Resourcefulness
- Confidence in matters of project management
- Patience
- Ability to work well in a diverse environment
- Strong mathematical knowledge
- Solid ethics
- Ability to be diplomatic"

How to Answer

The interviewer wants to know that you can diffuse a tense situation if needed. They also want to see a bit more of your personality! Stress and fast-paced work environments can cause people to feel overwhelmed and sometimes even angry or upset. Think of a time when you took a much more lighthearted approach to diffuse a tense situation.

Answer Example

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

How to Answer

It is essential to research SNC Lavalin Group Inc. before your interview, along with any significant competitors. Be sure to keep your answer positive and discuss with the interviewer the many ways in which SNC Lavalin Group Inc. stands out from their competitors.

1st Answer Example

"I understand that the engineering and construction industry is highly competitive. After researching the focus of SNC Lavalin Group Inc., I believe that the strongest competitors are ABC and XYZ. Despite these competitors being strong, I still believe that SNC Lavalin Group Inc. stands out in the landscape through the integrity displayed in each project. You stand out through your strong industry reputation and honest approach."

2nd Answer Example

"Although I am not 100% sure who you compete with on a day to day basis, I feel that Company A would be the closest to a competitor. With that said, SNC Lavalin Group Inc. still does the most thorough job standing out in the market through your great branding and social media marketing."

How to Answer

Most people have had a job that they don't particularly love. Think about your least favorite situation and break down for the interviewer what made it so tiresome.

Perhaps the responsibilities were mundane, or the co-workers were unfriendly. Discuss with the interviewer what made the job so complicated, and what you did to make it better for yourself. The interviewer wants to see that you are proactive in situations like this rather than just giving up and quitting.

1st Answer Example

"Many years ago, I worked as a waitress at a local sports bar. I liked the job because of the customers, but I didn't feel appreciated by my boss. It was discouraging because he was so negative rather than offering encouragement- even during the busiest and most challenging shifts. I did my best and worked hard, but moved on when I had the opportunity. I learned that having a boss who is encouraging and motivating can make such a world of difference!"

2nd Answer Example

"I like to think that every job I have held has offered me something positive. My least favorite job came with a challenging schedule and a boss with very little leadership training. I learned how I wanted to show up in the business world and what did and did not work for me."

How to Answer

You cannot force others to communicate with you in a way that you would always prefer. Talk to the interviewer about a time that you have handled a supervisor who does not correspond with you in a way that you like.

1st Answer Example

"Whenever I have had a supervisor who does not properly communicate with me, I try to learn their style of communication and emulate it. Sometimes you have to relate to others in their style to be understood."

2nd Answer Example

"There are times in business when this happens. I make sure I regroup with the supervisor to explain the strain a gap in communication causes on the team. I then go into mending mode, ensuring the information that needs communicating gets disseminated out to the team."

How to Answer

To many employers, the number of years' experience is flexible - so long as you have the results to show for the years that you do have. Talk to the interviewer about your major career successes. This answer is the time to sell yourself. Make no apologies for your lack of years!

1st Answer Example

"Although I have five years' experience vs. eight years' experience I can do this job well. In my previous role, I was outperforming colleagues who had 12 years of experience. To me, it's all about drive and ability to be a quick study. I have all of these qualities and more."

2nd Answer Example

"Along with my five years working in this industry, I have worked in related industries my entire career. Also, I hope that my graduate degree gives me a little boost in experience over the required undergraduate degree."

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to know that you are capable of confidently delegating tasks to your employees or coworkers.

A great leader is someone who can effectively manage their time by ensuring tasks are equitably divided while utilizing the strengths of others. Display to the interviewer that you have the wherewithal to recognize the depths of your team by delegating tasks which compliment their skill sets.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

"Every month I have a meeting with all team members to talk about our plan for the month and how we will delegate the work. It's a great strategy for us, and everyone starts the month with laid out expectations."

How to Answer

Rather than just sharing how you have gone above and beyond, focus on how your qualities will help you to meet and exceed expectations. Discuss the reasons why will you be great at this job. Talk about your qualifications and skills that will help you to do this job well. If you can, match your strengths to the requirements outlined in the job description.

1st Answer Example

"I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for five years with great training and mentorship. I have a solid understanding of X, Y, and Z (skills listed in the job description). Also, I have all of my updated certifications as outlined in your job description. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career."

2nd Answer Example

"Success comes from dedication and hard work. I am purposeful in my work which makes me confident in the fact that I will be a success here at SNC Lavalin Group Inc.."

How to Answer

Motivated employees are productive employees. Talk to the interviewer about how you ensure that your team is feeling motivated and being as productive as possible.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

"Every one of my new hires does a DISC assessment. This assessment shows where they fall in regards to four traits: dominance, influence, steadiness, compliance. The results help me understand them better and how to tap into their peak performance."

How to Answer

Are you someone who can handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to control pressure in the workplace.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

"Stress is part of any demanding job, and I embrace it to the fullest. I take good care of myself and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to know if you are satisfied with your interview performance. If your interview were a flop, you would know, and it's much better to address outright your performance than try to sweep it under the rug.

If you feel that your performance in the interview is going well: "I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?"

1st Answer Example

"I believe that this interview has been quite informative and I am happy with my performance. Is there anything that I can clarify for you from this conversation?"

2nd Answer Example

"If you feel that your performance in the interview is not going well: "I am not sure if I have been able to portray myself 100% accurately in this interview; although, I am trying my best. If there is anything more I can clarify for you, I would be happy to do so."

How to Answer

Keep your answer simple and precise. Stay away from long drawn out stories. Briefly, describe a time when you resolved a customer service issue. Highlight your ability to remain patient and rational.

1st Answer Example

"Just last week, a customer called our design team because he was unhappy with a particular design we were creating for him. I reassured him that we would modify the design to his liking before finalizing the project. We spoke further and, in the end, he was feeling uncomfortable not being a part of the decision-making every step of the way. With any customer complaint I remain patient, listen to their concerns, and reassure the customer we would do anything within reason to satisfy their requests."

2nd Answer Example

"I worked in a retail customer care center and had to navigate angry customer experiences more times than I would have liked. People who are upset want to be heard and respected. I would listen, empathize and reassure the customer that I am there to support them and resolve the matter. Communication and reassurance are important throughout the process."

How to Answer

Have you ever faced a time, in the workplace, where you were put to the test when it came to your integrity? Perhaps a co-worker has asked you to lie, or you were tempted to be dishonest on your time sheet when the boss was away. Talk to the interviewer about a time when you overcame the temptation to be dishonest.

1st Answer Example

"Last year our manager went away on vacation for three weeks. Some of my co-workers wanted to falsify our time sheets to reflect overtime hours that we did not work. I disagreed and was able to convince them that it was a bad idea and certainly not worth being fired over."

2nd Answer Example

"I once had a subordinate that would perform work after clocking out. There was a rumor later that I forced my team to work off the clock to save the company money. I did not know it was happening, and I certainly did not ask anyone to work outside of their scheduled shift. The situation was cleared up later."

How to Answer

The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."

How to Answer

Many employees will look for new work if they feel that they are underpaid and underappreciated. Talk to the interviewer about your current compensation and whether or not you think it is fair.

If you feel you are currently paid what you are worth: "I feel that my current employer pays me fairly; however, I would like to see an increase in pay with an increase in responsibilities."

1st Answer Example

"I feel that my current employer pays me fairly; however, I would like to see an increase in pay with an increase in responsibilities."

2nd Answer Example

"If you do not feel you are currently paid what you are worth: "I know that I am underpaid compared to my industry colleagues. My company is small, and they do what they can, but this is part of why I am seeking a new position."

How to Answer

Employers want to know that you have a methodical approach to problem-solving. Consider the skills and qualities that help you successfully face problems. Perhaps you have a keen eye for detail. Maybe you can see opportunity when others can only focus on the issue. Share your strengths as a problem solver, and your ability to come up with innovative solutions.

1st Answer Example

"I am a great problem solver because I do not allow stress to cloud my judgment and mute my creativity. I am a keen observer with a great memory which allows me to recall unique solutions or ideas."

2nd Answer Example

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

How to Answer

Hard work and dedication can be interpreted differently by everyone. To one person, another person's hard work could seem like slacking. Talk to the interviewer about how you understand a hard day's work.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

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

How to Answer

The interviewer truly wants to understand the role that you naturally take on, when put into a team-based environment. Let the interviewer know that you tend to take the lead, without seeming overbearing. If you usually like to generate new ideas and allow someone else to execute them, share your creative side but express that you prefer for others to take the lead.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

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

How to Answer

A job search isn't just a one-sided hunt. You must also feel as though this is a good fit for yourself. Summarize your ideal employer. Be specific and be sure to keep the conversation positive. Avoid speaking poorly of any previous managers or organizations.

1st Answer Example

"My ideal employer is one that brings charisma and passion to their work. I work best with organizations who have a penchant for learning and promote their employees based on performance."

2nd Answer Example

"My ideal employer is one that allows me to take the reigns when it comes to problem-solving. I like to be hands-on and prefer to work for people who value this in me."

How to Answer

Have you ever taken the opportunity to present your employer with ideas on potential change? Talk to the hiring manager about a time when you took the initiative in the workplace.

1st Answer Example

"I was able to present and implement one specific change in the office this past year. It was a recycling program that I felt was very important, even for our smaller office. We had significantly less waste after initiating my plan, and I enjoyed seeing others take pride in helping our environment."

2nd Answer Example

"In my most recent position, I noticed that our written procedures were not exactly how the employees were doing things. I decided to interview the employees and compare it to the written procedures that management wanted to be used. We were able to come to a compromise that met all of the safety and quality requirements of the company, but still worked a bit faster and easier for the staff."

How to Answer

It is always best to support your reply with a real-life example. Talk to the interviewer about your level of attentiveness when it comes to details on the job.

1st Answer Example

"My co-workers would describe my attention to detail as very strong. I can very easily point out spelling discrepancies in communication and will notice the small things. I think big-picture as well but have always had a knack for details."

2nd Answer Example

"My attention to detail is a point that I have been working on a lot this past year. I am meticulous but, in the past, have pushed my documentation back a little bit. It's something I am conscious of and continually working on."

How to Answer

It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the items you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of questions you could have found the answers to 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 here?
- What is the company'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 biggest change in this industry over the past 3 years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?

1st Answer Example

2nd Answer Example

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

How to Answer

Onboarding new employees is a time consuming and costly endeavor, so the interviewer wants to make sure that this role will be a long-term fit for you. Be open with the interviewer about your dreams within this company, on a long-term basis. Share what promotions you hope to eventually receive and discuss what you wish to learn from being a part of their organization. The key to answering this question is to express to the interviewer that you plan to be employed by the company for many years to come.

1st Answer Example

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

2nd Answer Example

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