30 Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Interview Questions & Answers

Below is a list of our Pharmaceutical Manufacturing interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.

1. Can you explain what an excipient is and one of its possible uses?

How to Answer

An excipient is a pharmacologically inactive substance formulated alongside the active pharmaceutical ingredient of a medication. Excipients have various uses. Share your knowledge with the interviewer.

1st Answer Example

"An excipient is a substance that has no active value that is used with the active ingredient of a pharmaceutical medication. One use of excipients is as a binder. Binders hold the ingredients in a tablet together."

2nd Answer Example

"Excipients are used in the production of a medication for multiple reasons. They have no value as far as an active ingredient, but are used along with the active ingredient. They are often used as fillers. Fillers typically also fill out the size of a tablet or capsule, making it practical to produce and convenient for the consumer to use."

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Anonymous Answer

"Excipients are used in the manufacture of a drug for many reasons. They have no value as an active ingredient, but they are used together with the active ingredient. They are used as filler, binder, glidant, dispersant, etc."

Jaymie's Feedback

Great! Technical questions can be answered briefly and directly as you've done here.

2. Can you explain a possible problem that may arise with processing tablets?

How to Answer

While there are any number of issues that may arise when processing medications, there are a few that are more common when processing tablets. Those include: capping, lamination, and moddling. Explain what happens during one of this issues.

1st Answer Example

"One of the problems I can think of that may arise when processing tablets is lamination. Lamination is the term used to describe the separation of tablets into two or more layers."

2nd Answer Example

"There are a few complications that come to mind when I think about tablet processing. Capping is either a partial or complete separation of a tablet top or bottom crown. Another possible problem I can thing of is mottling, which is unequal colour distribution of a tablet."

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Anonymous Answer

"There are a few complications that come to mind when I think about tablet processing.

Granulation: sludge in the dough, clumping, inhomogeneous mixture,

Tablet Press: decapping, adhesion, tearing, hardness problem, dissolution, dispersion

Coating: mirroring, tablet surface erosion, chipping, logo bridging."

Jaymie's Feedback

This is a good start. Perhaps just pick one or two and elaborate a little more on the cause and correction of the problem.

3. What is a parenteral medication?

How to Answer

Parenteral medications are sterile dosage forms administered by injections thorough one more layers of the skin. Give the interviewer an example of a parenteral medication or route of administration.

1st Answer Example

"Parenteral medications are medications that are given through layers of the skin, such as IV therapy or an injection. If the medication is administered correctly, it will be sterile."

2nd Answer Example

"Parenterals are any medication that are given through the skin. A Rocephin injection is one example. Also, intravenous medications are considered parenterals."

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Anonymous Answer

"Parenteral drugs are drugs given by injection as IM and IV. Medicines must be sterile. The condition of being sterile is achieved by heat or filtration."

Jaymie's Feedback

Perfect!

4. What type of pharmaceutical excipient is carboxymethyl cellulose?

How to Answer

Carboxymethyl cellulose is an example of a disintegrant. Disintegrants are added to drug formulations, which assist to breakup tablets and contents of capsules into smaller particles for quick dissolution when it comes in contact with water in the GI tract.

1st Answer Example

"Carboxymethyl cellulose is a disintegrant excipient. It helps to break down medications in the gastrointestinal tract."

2nd Answer Example

"It is classified as a disintegrant. Disintegrants, ideally, exhibit poor solubility and poor gel formation capacity. They are useful in the digestive tract where they mix with water and hellp to break the contents of capsules or tablets into pieces that are smaller are more easily absorbed."

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Anonymous Answer

"It is classified as a disintegrant. Generally, this material is used as a thickener, binder, stabilizer, film-forming, and gelling function. Another feature is, It helps to break down medications in the gastrointestinal tract."

Jaymie's Feedback

Great! Having this knowledge base to share with the interviewer will be impactful!

5. Why did you choose a career in pharmaceutical manufacturing?

How to Answer

There are many career opportunities within the pharmaceutical industry. Questions like this give the interviewer an opportunity to know you. Share your thoughts about your career choice.

1st Answer Example

"I always wanted a career in the healthcare industry, but I wasn't sure if a hospital setting was for me. I did some research into different health-related career opportunities and really felt like working with pharmaceutical manufacturing would be an opportunity for me to provide a way to help people."

2nd Answer Example

"I have always been fascinated with chemistry. I also wanted to do something to provide care for others. I felt like manufacturing pharmaceuticals would allow me to do both. I have never considered any other career."

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Anonymous Answer

"I have always been fascinated with chemistry. Even when I was little I used to mix things up and experiment. I also wanted to do something to provide care for others. I felt like manufacturing pharmaceuticals would allow me to do both. I have never considered any other career."

Jaymie's Feedback

Excellent! Your passion is felt through your response.

6. What are some types of additives, and can you provide an example?

How to Answer

Additives are used to increase the stability of a solution. Types of additives include: preservatives, anti-oxidants, and synergists. Explain what one of these types of additives does and give an example for the interviewer.

1st Answer Example

"One example of an additive is an anti-oxidant. It is used to prevent the auto oxidation of a drug in the formulation. An anti-oxidant may be ascorbic acid. Synergists are another additive that is used to enhance the activity of anti-oxidants. An example of a synergist is
tartaric acid."

2nd Answer Example

"Preservatives are a type of additive that are used to prevent microbial growth in the drug formulation. Phenyl mercuric acetate is an example of a preservative, as well as benzalkonium chloride."

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Anonymous Answer

"Preservatives are a type of additive that is used to prevent microbial growth in the drug formulation. Generally, benzalkonium chloride is an example of a preservative for sterile products. Benzoic acid and parabens is an example of a preservative for liquid products."

Jaymie's Feedback

Great!

7. What can you tell me about buffering agents?

How to Answer

Buffering agents dissolve within a solvent and are used to help enable a solution to resist any change in pH should an acid or an alkali be added. Understanding different agents that may be used in a drug is important for those developing them. Share your knowledge with the interviewer.

1st Answer Example

"A buffering agent is used to help balance the pH in a solution. Examples include citrates or phospates."

2nd Answer Example

"The choice of a buffer depends on the pH of a solution and the buffering capacity needed. They should have a low toxicity and be non-irritant A few examples include carbonate, gluconates, and lactates."

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Anonymous Answer

"A buffering agent is used to help balance the pH in a solution. Examples include citrates or phosphates. potassium hydrogen phosphate (5,8-8,0) NaOH (4,2-5,8) and HCl (2,2-4,0)."

Jaymie's Feedback

Good job! Your answer demonstrates you are knowledgeable about the topic.

8. While Company ABC would like to hire employees who plan on working with us long-term,we do understand that things happen and plans change. Do you anticipate any significant changes in your life within the next 2-3 years that may affect employment with us?

How to Answer

Knowing what goals you have and any changes you anticipate in your life will give the interviewer an opportunity to evaluate two things: 1. what positions are available that won't disrupt your plans and, 2. are you interested in having a long-term relationship within the company? Change is good and growth is encouraged. However, because employers invest time and money in training new employees, they prefer that they have a plan to stay for the long-term. Still, if you don't plan on being in the same geographical area two or three years from now, it's is be to say that now.

1st Answer Example

"I recently became engaged. Although we have not set a date yet, we have agreed to wait twelve months before the marriage. My fiance' just passed the Bar exam here and has been offered an opportunity to join an existing law firm. Presently, our plans are to stay where we are and build a career, not just work a job. Also, we do not plan on having children for at least two years after our marriage. We both feel that being able to become established in our careers and save for our future would be the responsible thing to do before starting a family."

2nd Answer Example

"While unexpected things may arise, I don't anticipate any changes that would affect me being able to continue employment with Company ABC. I have close ties to the community here and a large family who live nearby. My hope is to be able to find a position that will allow me to become rooted with Company ABC and grow."

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Anonymous Answer

"While unexpected things may arise, I don't anticipate any changes that would affect my not being able to continue employment with Company Abbott. My hope is to be able to find a position that will allow me to become rooted with Company Abbott and grow."

Jaymie's Feedback

Interviewers often like a little reassurance that candidates are committed, so you responded appropriately! Good job.

9. Do you know what a viscosity imparting agent is?

How to Answer

Viscosity imparting agents are used when it is necessary or desirable to increase or decrease the viscosity of a liquid either to make it more palatable or to improve pour ability.

1st Answer Example

"Viscosity imparting agents are also called thickening agents. One type of viscosity imparting agents is a viscosity enhancer. Enhancers increase increase the thickness to help improve the taste and make it easier to pour."

2nd Answer Example

"Viscosity imparting agents help to make a liquid easier to pour and improve the taste. Viscosity enhancers make liquids thicker and viscosity modifiers make them thinner."

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Anonymous Answer

"Viscosity-imparting agents are also called thickening agents. One type of viscosity-imparting agent is a viscosity enhancer. Enhancers increase the thickness to help improve the taste and make it easier to pour. Examples are gums, gelatin, and mucilage variants."

Jaymie's Feedback

Great. Concise answers are often best when answering technical or knowledge-based questions.

10. What makes you think you will be successful at Company ABC?

How to Answer

Rather than just sharing how you have gone above and beyond expectations in the past, focus on how your qualities will help you to meet and exceed expectations with Company ABC. 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

"I believe my success with Company ABC will come from having all of the hard skills that you are looking for, whether learned in school or gained through work experience. I know all the key players in this region and stay informed of best practices."

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Anonymous Answer

"I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for sixteen years with great training in pharmaceutical technology (all processes in manufacturing, tt, process improvement, formulation development, validation, BSI, etc.). This extensive experience has given me strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and decision making, results-oriented. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career."

Jaymie's Feedback

Excellent! You gave a good mix of experience and skillsets that show your background aligns with the role.

11. What is your greatest strength?

How to Answer

This is your time to shine. However, remember the interviewer is looking for work related strengths. Mention a number of them such as being a good motivator, problem solver, performing well under pressure, being loyal, having a positive attitude, eager to learn, taking initiative and attention to detail.

1st Answer Example

"I believe one of my greatest strengths is my communication skills. I enjoy meeting new people and getting to know them."

2nd Answer Example

"One of my strengths is that I work well under pressure. Instead of allowing myself to feel easily overwhelmed in a tough situation, I try to take time to evaluate a situation and find a way to resolve any issues without become frustrated."

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Anonymous Answer

"I believe one of my greatest strengths is my problem-solving skills. The wide range of experience I gained in this industry has given me this ability."

Jaymie's Feedback

Great start! This is your chance to really sell yourself, so if there is any other information that will help highlight this skill, be sure to include it. Perhaps a previous manager recognized this skillset or because of this skill, you were given X project or assignment.

12. What are some examples of solvents?

How to Answer

A solvent is a substance that can dissolve a solute resulting in a solution. A solvent is usually a liquid but it can also be solid or a gas. Share your knowledge of solvents and how they are used with the interviewer.

1st Answer Example

"Solvents are used to help create a solution. The most often used solvent is water, which can be used to improve solubility and stability."

2nd Answer Example

"Solvents can be in solid or gas form. They are used to create a solution. Some solvents are non-aqueous like glycerol and ethanol; they are generally used for a lipophilic drug."

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Anonymous Answer

"Solvents are used to help create a solution. The most often used solvent is water, which can be used to improve solubility and stability. Some solvents are non-aqueous like glycerol and ethanol; they are generally used for a lipophilic drug."

Jaymie's Feedback

Spot on!

13. Have you ever had a disagreement with a co-worker, and how was it resolved?

How to Answer

Any time you work with someone else, there is a chance of having a disagreement about something at one time or another. The interviewer knows this. It's human nature for people to have their own opinions. What is important to the interviewer in this question is whether or not you are willing to compromise and work through difficult situations with your co-workers. Being unwilling to compromise or find alternative solutions to a dispute can affect everyone on the team, even if it is indirectly. Sharing a personal experience is OK, but do not embellish it to 'be the hero.'

1st Answer Example

"I believe if we think about it, each of us could remember at least one disagreement with a friend or co-worker. Although I consider myself to be pretty easy-going, I am also very passionate about my patients and the care that they receive. I have been aware of disagreements between other co-workers, but really like to think of myself as more of a peacekeeper. I feel like professional people should be able to discuss things logically and come to an agreement that is satisfactory for everyone involved."

2nd Answer Example

"I think the most common disagreement between myself and others have involved our personal feelings about how healthcare should be carried out. However, I have learned, as have most of the people that I have worked with, that while our opinions are important, plans of care are designated by strict guidelines and with the input of everyone on the care team as well as the patient. Learning to respect those guidelines and patient wishes usually resolves issues that arise"

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Anonymous Answer

"Be professional, polite, and respectful, keeping the disagreement impersonal and your emotions intact. Practice reflective skills by listening to your coworker, seeing their point of view, and repeating back to them their main points. Find a shared outcome or common ground to make the disagreement less contentious."

Jaymie's Feedback

If you have an example to give, be sure to provide some context about the situation and what led to the disagreement. If you haven't experienced this, it's appropriate to give the interviewer strategies or techniques you would use in this situation, as you did here.

14. What is the difference between a vial and an ampule?

How to Answer

Understanding the difference in how medications are packaged is important. Explain your understanding of the differences between a vial and an ampule.

1st Answer Example

"Injectable medications come in ampules or vials. Ampules have a single dose of medication in them and vials are multi-dose packages."

2nd Answer Example

"Ampules and vials have injectable medications in them. A vial has multiple doses of one medication, such as Rocephin, and a vial contains a single dose of medication."

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Anonymous Answer

"Injectable medications come in ampules or vials. Ampules have a single dose of medication in them and vials are multi-dose packages. Ampules are made of glass, Vials also are made of different materials glass and rubber stoppers."

Jaymie's Feedback

Good job!

15. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

How to Answer

Employers realize that there is life outside of work. Getting to know employees/potential employees and what interests them gives employers an opportunity to develop a relationship with them. Share what you like. Have you been to a destination you'd like to return to? Is there somewhere you've always dreamed of going? This is also an opportunity for you to get to know the employer. Ask questions to show your interest in building a relationship.

1st Answer Example

"Without a doubt, I would go to Italy! I have always wanted to travel and Italy will be one of the first places I go to once I have time to go and really experience it! Have you ever been to another country?"

2nd Answer Example

"When I was younger, I went on a mission trip to Brazil. I have always wanted to return and spend time with the missionaries who are still there. I came back with such an appreciation for the opportunities and conveniences that we have here. What about you? Have you ever traveled abroad?"

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Anonymous Answer

"Without a doubt, I would go to Bali! I have been there 4 years ago but I have always wanted to travel.I was very impressed by its delicious food, incredible nature, religious lifestyle, culture, and the warmth of its people."

Jaymie's Feedback

This is a personal question and you answered it perfectly!

16. What is a humectant, and can you provide an example?

How to Answer

A humectant attracts and retains the moisture in the nearby air via absorption, drawing the water vapor into and/or beneath the organism's surface. Humectants absorb water vapors from the atmosphere until a certain degree of dilution is attained. Aqueous solutions of humectants can reduce the rate of loss of moisture. Share your knowledge with the interviewer.

1st Answer Example

"Humectants attract moisture to help an organism achieve a desired level of dilution. Two types of humectants are inorganic humectants and organic humectants. Inorganic humectants Because of compatibility problems and their corrosive nature, inorganic humectants are not frequently used in cosmetics. Calcium chloride is an example. Organic humectants are widely used in cosmetics. The most commonly used organic humectants are glycerol, ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol (PEG), diethylene glycol, tri ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, glycerin, sorbitol, mannitol, glucose."

2nd Answer Example

"Humectants are used to dilute a substance by attracting and retaining moisture. One type of humectant is metal organic humectants. These are limited used in cosmetics because of compatibility problems, corrosive nature and pronounced taste. One example of this class of humectants is sodium lactate."

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Anonymous Answer

"Humectants attract moisture to help an organism achieve a desired level of dilution. Two types of humectants are inorganic humectants and organic humectants. Inorganic humectants because of compatibility problems and their corrosive nature, inorganic humectants are not frequently used in pharma. Calcium chloride is an example. Organic humectants are widely used in pharma. The most commonly used organic humectants are glycerol, ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol (PEG), diethylene glycol, tri ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerin, sorbitol, and mannitol."

Jaymie's Feedback

Excellent!

17. Company ABC values its employees and strives to create a team atmosphere. Do you consider yourself a "team player"?

How to Answer

Almost everyone says yes to this question. But it is not just a yes/no question. You need to provide behavioral examples to back up your answer.

1st Answer Example

"Yes, I do consider myself a team player. I believe when we all work together we can accomplish so much more than if we try to do things by ourselves without insight from others."

2nd Answer Example

"I am glad to know that Company ABC values the efforts of teamwork. I have always made an effort to work well with others and to contribute my strengths to the group in an effort to accomplish a goal together."

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Anonymous Answer

"The way to be a good manufacturer is to be a good team player and leader. Because the production department is the whole of the relations with the stakeholders in the organization and the personnel working in the production."

Jaymie's Feedback

You're off to a good start. Can you give some examples or ways that you promote teamwork in the workplace?

18. If your previous employer were here, what would he say about you?

How to Answer

Leaving previous employment on good terms is always a good idea. Interviewers may ask this question and then call the same employer for a reference. So, while this may not be a time for full disclosure, it is a time to be honest. Stay positive and focus on your strengths that a previous employer may share when asked about you.

1st Answer Example

"I believe my previous employer would say I am a hard worker and that I always pull my own weight. I also feel like he would say that I am trustworthy."

2nd Answer Example

"I know my previous employer would give me a good reference. I feel like she would tell you that I am hardworking and dedicated. I am confidant that she would speak positively about me because she told me the door is always open if I wanted to come back to work with them."

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Anonymous Answer

"If he was here he would probably say a few nice things about my interpersonal relationships, my energy, and my problem-solving skills."

Jaymie's Feedback

This is great feedback to share. You can also share details on past performance reviews to back up your answer as well.

19. What are some key factors to consider in a manufacturing facility's design?

How to Answer

Facility design is very important in ensuring the flow of production is done effectively and runs smoothly. Understanding some of the key design essentials is important. Share any knowledge you may have regarding design importance.

1st Answer Example

" In the critical areas, the flow of air should be in one direction with enough velocity to prevent the particles from closing the area. Also, temperature, as well as humidity, should be regulated."

2nd Answer Example

"If any contaminants are being generated in an area, there should be an efficiently working HVAC system to remove and prevent the contaminants from spreading to other areas. Ventilation dampers and other services should be positioned for maintenance purpose in a place away from the production area for easy access."

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Anonymous Answer

"If any contaminants are being generated in an area, there should be an efficiently working HVAC system to remove and prevent the contaminants from spreading to other areas. Ventilation dampers and other services should be positioned for maintenance purposes in a place away from the production area for easy access."

Jaymie's Feedback

These are good best practices and standards to share that demonstrate your knowledge base of facility design.

20. What would you like for people recognize about your personality when they meet you?

How to Answer

Personality and character are two things that are closely related. For instance, someone with an honest character or good work ethic will tend to be more open about his or her beliefs as well as personal and professional expectations. The interviewer is looking for ques as to what character you may bring to the table, so to speak. It is important to remember body language speaks volume and eye contact is a big indicator of your self-esteem, and your self-esteem is reflected outwardly in your personality. Be confident when you answer and make eye contact with the interviewer.

1st Answer Example

"I would describe my personality as approachable, light-hearted, and positive. I would like to think that people who meet me can quickly see that I am easy to get along with."

2nd Answer Example

"I believe when people meet me they see that I am easy-going and not self-centered. It is easy to get caught up in the 'me syndrome' and forget that others are important. That is something I try to make an extra effort to not do. I want people to feel like I am someone they can get to know and can work well with."

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Jaymie's Feedback

These are good qualities that you'd want others to notice about your personality.

21. What are some different types of coatings agents?

How to Answer

Coating is a process by which an essentially dry, outer layer of material is applied to the surface of a dosage form. Function of coating agents include protection, masking, ease of swallowing, identification etc.

1st Answer Example

"Coating agents are used for a number of reasons such as making pills easier to swallow. A few types are film coating and sugar coating."

2nd Answer Example

"Different types of coating agents are compressed coating and film coating. These help protect that medication and make them more pallatable."

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Anonymous Answer

"Different types of coating agents are sugar coating and film coating. Sugar coating help protect that medication and make drugs more palatable. Film coating agents are used for different purposes. It is used as a taste mask, a colorant to distinguish different forms of the drug from each other, and used for the dissolution of the drug in the intestinal environment."

Jaymie's Feedback

Good job sharing your knowledge of various coating agents.

22. At Company ABC we like to encourage employees to have a healthy balance between work and their personal lives. What are some things you like to do to help you unwind and create balance in your life?

How to Answer

No matter what profession a person chooses, everyone needs some time to unwind and relax. Psychologists today say that a healthy balance in life allows a person to recharge and refocus which can result in better productivity at work. The interviewer simply wants to know what you do for you. Maybe you have a favorite pass-time or hobby. This is yet another way for the interviewer to get to know you as a person.

1st Answer Example

"One of my favorite pass-times is writing. After a busy day at work, I like to journal or write articles for a blog that I author. Both of these forms of writing allow me to release any feelings of frustration I may experience, especially after a stressful day or a difficult situation at work. The writings in my journal are private and my way of 'letting it all out.' The blog articles, on the other hand, are my way of using creative writing to share stories with my followers."

2nd Answer Example

"I really enjoy working out at the gym and, I also take a kickboxing class twice weekly. After a good workout or class, I always feel like I can rest better and wake up energized and ready for the next day."

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"Learning about the cultures and lives of the countries I have visited, and tasting their traditional dishes and drinks changed my perspective on the world and people. Learning to know the world makes me happy. I also like hanging out with my co-workers in the evenings after work."

Jaymie's Feedback

All of these are great ways to unwind! These may also be conversation starters that may get the interviewer to open up about their interests as well.

23. What may one of your previous bosses or co-workers say is one of your weaknesses?

How to Answer

This is often a very hard question for a candidate to answer. The idea behind this question is to approach the weaknesses, or particularly the comments on those weaknesses, in a positive manner. When you answer, try to find a positive remark regarding something that may otherwise seem negative.

1st Answer Example

"One of my previous co-workers constantly told me that I was too much of a workaholic. Personally, I don't see that as a weakness. I have, however, learned to work and accomplish things as assigned and then take on additional work, when time permits, so that things are not left undone."

2nd Answer Example

"I think if anyone was asked what my weakness is, it is probably in delegating responsibilities. It's not that I don't know how or that I am unable to make judgment calls on who could do a specific job. I believe that 'weakness,' if you want to call it that, is because I don't like to impose on others and that often leaves me trying to handle multiple things at once."

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Anonymous Answer

"I think if anyone was asked what my weakness is, it is probably trusting people quickly. It is good to be a little cautious in business life."

Jaymie's Feedback

Good start! If you can, share some ways you're working on finding a balance in this area.

24. Company ABC has facilities in multiple locations. Would you be willing to locate if a position is available in a different city/town?

How to Answer

While relocation may not be a requirement for the job for which you are applying, if Company ABC has more than one location, the interviewer will almost always ask this question. The important thing to remember with this question is be honest. If you don't want to move, that's fine. It's better to say that now than to accept the job and then have conflict later if you are asked to relocate. The interviewer can make note of your location preference while trying to find a suitable position for you.

1st Answer Example

"I am not married and have no children at this time. Also, most of my family live in other states. Because of that, I am open to the possibility of relocation. I would love to hear about any opportunities within Company ABC and where you feel I could be an asset."

2nd Answer Example

"While I am not opposed to relocating, I would like to stay within 75 miles of this location. My parents are older and I like to be able to look in on them and be close enough that I can to them within an hour or so if an emergency should arrive."

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Anonymous Answer

"I am open to the possibility of relocation. I would love to hear about any opportunities within Company Abbott."

Jaymie's Feedback

Great! Your openness will be a plus to the interviewer.

25. What is a motivator for you to do well on a job?

How to Answer

This is a personal answer. The interviewer is getting to know you and what makes you want to do well. Share your thoughts.

1st Answer Example

"I like the sense of achievement I feel when I do a job well. I challenge myself daily to do a better job than the day before."

2nd Answer Example

"I like the feeling of working with a team and accomplishing a goal together. Knowing that other people count on me as part of their team is a big motivator to perform well."

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Anonymous Answer

"I like the feeling of working with a team and accomplishing a goal together. Knowing that other people count on me as part of their team is a big motivator to perform well."

Jaymie's Feedback

These are great motivators to share with the interviewer!

26. Why do HEPA filters have a 0.3 micron pore size?

How to Answer

HEPA (High-Efficiency Particle Air) filters are an essential part of the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, where sterile environments are mandatory. Share your understanding of their importance.

1st Answer Example

"The smaller the micron, the harder it is to filter out of the air. Bacteria can be as small as 0.3 microns, which is why 0.3 micron HEPA filters are used in pharmaceutical companies."

2nd Answer Example

"A standard air filter usually eliminates medium to larger particles from the air. However, they don't have the capabilities to almost completely eradicate tiny micron size particles from the air as a HEPA filter does."

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Anonymous Answer

"The smaller the micron, the harder it is to filter out of the air. Bacteria can be as small as 0.3 microns, which is why 0.3-micron HEPA filters are used in pharmaceutical companies."

Jaymie's Feedback

Great!

27. What are some reasons that could cause chipping in tablet manufacturing?

How to Answer

Chipping occurs when there is breaking of the edges of the tablet during the manufacturing process. . Chipping can occur as the tablet leaves the press or during subsequent operations such as coating. Share some reasons that chipping may occur and any remedy, if possible.

1st Answer Example

"Chipping could occur during tablet manufacturing by the tablet sticking to the punch face, which could be as a result of poor lubrication, or insufficient drying. Respectively, the remedy to this cause of chipping would be to properly dry the granules and to use the right amount of lubrication."

2nd Answer Example

"One cause of chipping could be that the granules are too dry granules which results in chipping when the tablet is under the pressure of the press. Promoting plasticity through moistening the granules should help resolve this issue."

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"We can list the reasons as follows: Tablet tooling is worn or damaged. The tablet edges are too sharp. Tablet friability is not optimal for a stressful process such as film coating (soft tablet, not enough binder, granules are too dry ). Pan speed is too high, causing increased edge wear. The coating cannot be applied fast enough to allow coating build-up to protect edges."

Jaymie's Feedback

These are all accurate causes for chipping. Great job.

28. What is the difference in a syrup and a suspension?

How to Answer

There is a slight difference in syrup and suspension products that can cause ineffective use in clinical effects. Understanding the difference between the two is especially important when educating patients on proper use. Show your understanding of the differences.

1st Answer Example

"In syrups, drug particles are distributed evenly throughout the solution. In suspensions, the drug particles do not completely dissolve in the solution which means they are not evenly distributed. It is important to educate patients who are using a suspension to shake the bottle well before dispensing the prescribed amount."

2nd Answer Example

"Syrups are often viscous due to a high concentration of sugar which makes them more palatable, especially for younger children. Because drug particles in a suspension do not completely dissolve in the solution, they often settle at the bottom of the bottle making the suspension have two layers. Properly shaking a suspension before administration is helpful in combining the particles in the poured solution."

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

Jaymie's Feedback

Well done!

29. What effect might humidity have on the stability of a tablet?

How to Answer

The level of humidity has a great effect on the stability of pharmaceutical tablets. Tablets and capsules are protected for moisture by their packing. Degradation of tablets and capsules starts when they get a high moisture content. Share some examples of effects caused by humidity.

Answer Example

"When moisture is absorbed into the tablets, it affects physical stability which causes it to be ineffective. The product may then be considered a degradation product."

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"The level of humidity has a great effect on the stability of pharmaceutical tablets. Tablets and capsules are protected from moisture by their packing. Degradation of tablets and capsules starts when they get a high moisture content. Share some examples of effects caused by humidity."

Jaymie's Feedback

Good job. This is a straight forward knowledge-based question and you answered appropriately.

30. Company ABC likes to reward employees for their hard work and experience. How would you feel about someone having the same job title as you making a higher salary because of years of experience?

How to Answer

Most employers do offer higher salary incentives to get more seasoned employees. This is not meant to devalue a person's knowledge or experience, but rather paying for more experience. It is important to note that the interviewer is not saying you will definitely make less than someone with more experience. Many times this question is to see how you respond and how badly you want a position. If an employee is willing to put in the work and earn the pay increase, employers often see them as someone worth investing in. This is a good time to ask what the beginning salary is and discuss options that are negotiable such as benefits and paid time off.

1st Answer Example

"I understand that years of experience are often rewarded with higher earning. I feel, given the chance to demonstrate my knowledge and skills, you will find that I am capable of doing the job as well as some of the more experienced employees. Having said that, I will not turn down an offer of employment because of a difference in pay based on my present lack of experience. With that in mind, what benefits are available for someone coming on board with your company with my resume?"

2nd Answer Example

"I appreciate the fact that Company ABC rewards employees for hard work and experience. While I am confident of my skills, I respect the fact that I may need to effectively show my skills by working here before being offered a higher salary. I am excited about the prospect of becoming part of a team here at Company ABC and have no doubt that my knowledge and skills will become quickly apparent."

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I appreciate the fact that Company Abbott rewards employees for hard work and experience. While I am confident of my skills, I respect the fact that I may need to effectively show my skills by working here before being offered a higher salary. I am excited about the prospect of becoming part of a team here at Company Abbott and have no doubt that my knowledge and skills will become quickly apparent."

Jaymie's Feedback

Excellent!