30 Bacteriology Technician Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Bacteriology Technician 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. What is your greatest strength?
How to Answer
As a Bacteriology Technician, you have many strengths. Because this question is one of the most common questions asked in an interview, do your homework by reviewing the job description and matching their needs to your skills and strengths. Share a strength with the interviewer that directly relates to the job.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"One of my strengths is my ability to correctly operate a centrifuge, micro-pipetting equipment, thermocyclers, microscopes, biosafety cabinet, laminar flow biosafety hood and other equipment in the lab."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"My greatest strength is my reliability. Part of my reliability is consistently being there, I have a 100% on-time record at work and have had it for the last three years. People also know that they can trust me to do what I say I will do, they trust me to deliver."
Written by Heather Douglass
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2. Describe your ideal work environment.
How to Answer
Remember to answer this question with what you want in a work environment not what you don't want or comment on the chaos you are working in now. Tell the interviewer that your ideal work environment would encourage teamwork, effective communication, and positive work relationships.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"An ideal working environment for me is one in which everyone is focused and working towards the same goal. I enjoy working with lots of people, I like the buzz and excitement of deadlines, and ideally would like to be working with a friendly, confident team. "
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"The type of work environment that I see is a positive, collaborative, and encouraging one. I want to learn every day from my peers because they are knowledgeable and excited about what they do."
Written by Heather Douglass
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3. Give an example of adapting quickly to new situations.
How to Answer
If the interviewer asks this question, chances are the position is looking for an individual that adapts well to change -perhaps the position is not as rigid. Give a specific example of how you adapt well to a new situation if you can't think of a professional example tell the interviewer about a personal example.
Written by Heather Douglass on January 7th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My Dad was in the military, so I moved a lot and attended three elementary schools and two high schools. So that personal experience really shaped me in my professional life to adapt well to change."
Written by Heather Douglass on January 7th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Coming to work for a new company certainly involves a lot of adjustments. However, I have always been able to adapt quickly to new work situations. A large part of this has to do with my ability to get along and communicate effectively with many people. For example, when I started my previous job, I introduced myself to my colleagues right away and felt confident asking them questions in my first couple weeks when I was unsure of something."
Written by Heather Douglass
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4. How flexible is your schedule?
How to Answer
This question could be a way for you to flip the tables and find out what schedules they work and what they wanted the new hire to work in. Be sure to voice at this time if day shift is the only shift you can work because of other obligations.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"I'm available to work any shift you need me on. What shifts do you all have here? Was there one that you needed me to fill? "
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"My schedule is quite flexible. A few days notice before changing hours would be ideal so my wife and I can coordinate our schedules."
Written by Heather Douglass
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5. What is your leadership style?
How to Answer
The interviewer is asking this question to see if you have served in a leadership role or if you are up for the challenge. Tell the interviewer if you've had the opportunity to lead others and what the outcome was.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"I'd like to think of my leadership style as innovative. I believe that failures don't impede progress, the team gains job satisfaction and enjoyment and it creates an atmosphere of respect for others' ideas."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"I haven't had the opportunity to be in a leadership position in the lab before. In my last position as a Medical Assistant, my leadership style was honest and direct. I feel that providing constructive feedback and encouraging a positive work environment is the best way to be a leader."
Written by Heather Douglass
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6. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
This questions can be tricky and dangerous if you're not sure how to answer it. Avoid talking salary before really selling your skills. Do your research so you will have an understanding of average salary for a Bacteriology Technician in your area. One approach is asking the interviewer about the salary range, but to avoid the question entirely, you can respond that money isn't a key factor and you're goal is to advance in your career. However, if you have a minimum figure in mind and you believe you're able to get it, you may find it worth trying.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"Money isn't a key factor but I do have a salary range in mind based on the local area."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"As a new graduate in this area, the average salary is $25K-$35K per year. I'm hoping to start within this range."
Written by Heather Douglass
7. Do you have previous experience as a bacteriology technician?
How to Answer
When the interviewer asks you questions related to the experience that qualifies you for the job, it's important to be very specific about your skills and experience. Instead of answering it broadly, try to use specific examples of how your past work prepares you for the new role.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"I've worked in a lab as a Bacteriology Technician for the past 5 years. I'm proficient in various laboratory equipment, ability to utilize specialized software including CAHFS Laboratory Information Management System. I worked for Mr. Smith at the University of Colorado and I know he would be happy to tell you more about my work ethic and professionalism."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"I've just graduated with my Bachelor's degree in Microbiology. This will be my first full-time"‹ job and I look forward to the challenge."
Written by Heather Douglass
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Anonymous Answer
During my internship, I had the opportunity to take a molecular and microbiology course under the supervision of my professor. This allowed me to learn various laboratory techniques, including bacterial cultures, media and reagent preparation, antibiotic sensitivity testing, and the use of different biochemical and molecular techniques. I have also gained experience in PCR extraction and electrophoresis."
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8. What are your career goals as a bacteriology technician?
How to Answer
When answering this question keep focused on what the company can offer you in the long term so the interviewer knows that you are going to stick around for awhile. Tell the interviewer that you can see this as a long term career and that you are happy to learn the job and that you are also keen to pursue further education and even an additional degree to achieve your goals.
Written by Heather Douglass
Answer Example
"When I graduated from college, I was immediately recruited by a local lab. As my resume reflects, I received two promotions in a short period of time. I've been there for the past 4 years and have learned a great deal and I'm ready for a leadership position."
Written by Heather Douglass
9. How do you handle work stress?
How to Answer
Humor, yoga or spending time with family. However you blow off some steam, make it positive and not suggest that you fall back on bad habits when stress gets to you. Skip saying you don't have any work stress because we all do. Tell the interviewer that you understand the pressures of the job and that you have experienced similar pressure before.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"To keep from bringing work stress home with me I like to run outside during my lunch breaks. The fresh air and excursive helps me clear my mind and give my very best at work."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"When I get stressed, I step back, take a deep breath, thoughtfully think through the situation and then begin to formulate a plan of action."
Written by Heather Douglass
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10. How would your co-workers describe you?
How to Answer
When answering this question you will want to consider qualities that are relevant to this position. Good communication skills, attention to detail, and technical mindset are all important characteristics for any medical sonographer. Show off your strengths, like having a good attitude when faced with difficulty or being willing to go above and beyond expectations to help someone out. Don't be afraid to brag a little, but keep it relevant.
Written by Heather Douglass
Answer Example
"My co-workers would describe me as hard working, professional, trusted and a team player."
Written by Heather Douglass
11. What do you know about our facility?
How to Answer
This question is a test to see if you did your homework on the facility you are applying to. Once you get to the interview stage, you'll want to do further research about the facility. Start with the website, reviewing their mission, values, and culture. You can read employee reviews to see what their experience was like. Do your homework so that you can respond confidently. Strive to impress the interviewer with your knowledge. That shows you have vested interested in the facility and that you're thinking long-term.
Written by Heather Douglass
Answer Example
"I know that your facility is active in the local community. Volunteering and community involvement"‹ is very important to me."
Written by Heather Douglass
12. Does standing all day bother you?
How to Answer
Explain to the interviewer that you understand the challenges it can bring, but you enjoy it nonetheless. Tell the interviewer if you are you currently standing all day at your current job. Tell the interviewer that when you start to get tired how you handle it.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"I am used to and comfortable standing on my feet all day. I've found a particular type of shoe that alleviates any sort of fatigue on my feet and standing on fatigue mats helps out."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"Standing all day doesn't bother me. Sometimes I feel that I need to walk around a bit if my knees start to ache but that's easy enough, I just take the long way to the analyzer."
Written by Heather Douglass
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13. How flexible is your schedule?
How to Answer
Before going into the interview, do some research on the company, employee reviews and the job itself. Often you can find out about what to expect with hours or potential travel. If you are working for a 24-hour facility it's likely that you be working long hours.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"I've worked under tight deadlines that required me to work longer hours. I have no problem being flexible, coming in early or staying late as needed."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"I'm very flexible on my hours. If a few days notice is possible that would make it easier for my husband and I to adjust our schedules."
Written by Heather Douglass
14. What type of people do you like working with?
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking to see if you will fit in their culture and what type of personality traits you like working with. Make sure you keep your answer positive and flexible.
Written by Heather Douglass on January 7th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Since I have various hobbies and interests, I've found that I'm able to get along with all personality types, but I really love working with positive-minded individuals that are driven and enjoy inspiring others."
Written by Heather Douglass on January 7th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I enjoy working with people that have a positive attitude. Displaying positivity in your work and personal life makes the work environment so much more enjoyable."
Written by Heather Douglass
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15. What is your greatest weakness? What are you doing to improve it?
How to Answer
As a Bacteriology Technician, you have weaknesses and that's ok. This question will give you the opportunity to tell the interviewer what your weaknesses are and what you are doing to improve yourself. Don't choose a weakness that is a job requirement.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"A weakness of mine is public speaking. In my last feedback with my supervisor, we discussed my weakness and we are now working together to improve it. He has given me the opportunity to interact with small groups to give me the practice that I need to one day speak to large audiences."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"My weakness is expecting my colleagues to perform at the level that I do. I've come to realize that not everyone puts 100% into their day like I do and that's ok. I will continue to give my best at work an inspire others to do so as well."
Written by Heather Douglass
16. Why do you want a career as a bacteriology technician?
How to Answer
This question is to learn more about you and why you want to work for their company. The first thing you will want to do is to express your enthusiasm for the company. Be positive and upbeat. Tell the interviewer how your skills and work experience line up with the role you are applying to. Express to the interviewer that you are ready to grow with this company and not using it as a stepping stone to your next opportunity.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"The part that really spoke to me about this position was the chance to combine both the research skills I gained from being an intern and my ability to quickly pick up how to use various laboratory software. This position will actively let me grow and learn from other medical professionals."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"I've always been interested in research. I'm looking forward to a position that allows me to follow my passion in the medical field."
Written by Heather Douglass
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Furthermore, I believe that my skills and experience in microbiology and molecular biology would be well-suited to the role of a laboratory technician. I am confident in my ability to accurately culture, identify, and analyze different types of bacteria, and I am comfortable working with a wide range of laboratory equipment."
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17. What is more important deadlines or quality of work?
How to Answer
As a Bacteriology Technician you've been faced with some short deadlines that could ultimately affect the quality of work you produce. Tell the interviewer that because you are very organized and prioritize your work you will continue to provide quality work despite pending deadline.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"I have been faced with short deadlines in the past but I make a point to keep my supervision updated on my progress through effective communication, reach out for assistance from my colleagues if needed but always give 110% in my work."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"I think the "‹quality is most important. If you have open communication with your supervisor to let them know that you may bust your timeline but you are providing your best work there might be wiggle room in the deadline."
Written by Heather Douglass
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18. Do you have questions for us?
How to Answer
You always think of the best thing to say once you've left the interview room. Feel free to write your questions down and bring them to the interview with you. A short list of 3 questions will help you keep on track, not ramble and not ask something inappropriate like how often you get smoke breaks.
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"Is this a new position? If not, what did the previous employee go on to do?"
Written by Heather Douglass
19. What are you doing to keep current in technology?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know what you do to keep yourself up to date with the technology. This will help in explaining if you are growth oriented or if you are just carrying your work with the same old knowledge that you gathered from your school/college. An employee who keeps himself updated with the current technology is always considered to be an asset for an organization. So, if you are doing something to keep yourself updated then mention it here.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"I am always interested in knowing what new updates are coming up in my profession. This is definitely good professionally as it gives me an edge over others and also it satisfies my desire to learn more and more. I regularly attend webinars and online conferences. Also, I am a regular member of certain online communities and forums where I contribute on a regular basis."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"I read blogs and am involved with different forums and communities."
Written by Heather Douglass
20. As a Bacteriology Technician, what do you believe is your best asset?
How to Answer
As a Bacteriology Technician, you may choose to highlight your education and training, your most profound work experience, your unique personal attributes, professional interests, and values or even specific skills you have that you know they are looking for. Whichever you choose, be confident and clear with your answer.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"My best asset is my transferable skills. I'm new to this career field but bring with my public speaking skills, a research mindset, and strong leadership ability."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"My best assets are my attention to detail and my patience."
Written by Heather Douglass
21. Why are you the best bacteriology technician for us?
How to Answer
Of course, they know why they want to hire you, you are there for an interview. The interviewer wants to hear the one unique thing that sets you apart from every other candidate who has applied for this position.
We suggest that you ask former co-workers or family members and ask them what they feel is the one unique thing that sets you apart from the other candidates. Their perceptions will help you understand how you are perceived and what makes you the perfect person for the opportunity.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"I've always enjoyed studying the structure and function of human, animal, and plant tissues. My attention to detail and work ethic have been complimented by my supervision and I'm excited to get the chance to display it here."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"I've been lucky enough to work in one of the largest labs in the state of California. I come with a wealth of knowledge and experience."
Written by Heather Douglass
22. What kind of supervisor gets the best work performance from you?
How to Answer
Are you motivated by words of encouragement? Are you an independent employee who works best alone? Let the hiring manager know how you like to be supervised.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"I work very well with a supervisor who gives me the direction at first but then allows me to take the lead in my learning. I respond really well to feedback and always like to know when there is room for improvement in my work."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"I enjoy working with a supervisor that encourages teamwork, offers praise and mentors his employe"
Written by Heather Douglass
23. What have you done to further your own professional development in the past 5 years?
How to Answer
This question is to give the interviewer a glimpse into how you have invested in your professional development recently. Tell the interviewer about career related courses, leadership workshops or safety training you've attended.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"This past year has been a big one for me in regards to professional development. My current employer has provided me with additional training and the opportunity to shadow with senior Bacteriology Technicians."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"I've recently become a member of a local Toastmasters"‹ club. I've wanted to concur my fear of public speaking and found a local group where others are doing the same."
Written by Heather Douglass
24. What are the steps you follow to study a problem before making a decision?
How to Answer
This question is the interviewer's way to find out if you are organized, work well with others and make well thought out decisions.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"Before making a decision I think about the problem and ask what the outcome is that I want. I determine who needs to be involved and what steps I need to take in order to get the answers I want."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"Before I make an important work decision that impacts the office I'm sure to run it by a supervisor to make sure I'm on the right page before doing the research and execute my work."
Written by Heather Douglass
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25. Describe a situation where other people who you were working with did not agree with your ideas. What did you do?
How to Answer
As a Bacteriology Technician working in a lab, you may run into situations where everyone doesn't quite get along. When answering this question be sure to answer calmly as sometimes bringing up stressful situations can bring back the emotions you felt at the time. Be sure not to name names, be too specific or talk negatively about the situation.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"There have been situations where my co-workers and I didn't agree on everything. We are a team that works well together and part of that is because we respect each. We give each other time to explain our concern and listen without understanding. There hasn't been a time we weren't able to work something out as a team."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"I had a rocky start with a manager once, because we had different expectations for the flow of the workday. Once we talked about it, we realized that our goals were very compatible, and we were able to work very successfully together for several years."
Written by Heather Douglass
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26. Have you ever had difficulty with a supervisor?
How to Answer
As a Medical Professional, you have worked with different types of supervisors with various types of personalities and leadership styles. Some you agree with and some that you don't. When answering this question be sure not to name names and be negative.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"In my career, I have had many different supervisors with an array of personalities. I did have one supervisor in the past who was not the type of leader that I would have chosen for myself. We disagreed on occasion but nothing severe enough to affect my work performance."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"I have found that if I take the time to talk with my manager at the beginning of a project, we can all get off to a great start on the same page."
Written by Heather Douglass
27. Why should we hire you?
How to Answer
We suggest that you ask a few former co-workers or family members what they feel is the one unique thing that sets you apart from the other candidates and keeps their answer in your back pocket. Their perceptions will help you understand how you are perceived and what makes you the perfect person for the opportunity.
Written by Heather Douglass
Answer Example
"I have the skills outlined in the job description and I bring 10+ years of expertise to this position."
Written by Heather Douglass
28. What was your biggest disappointment as a bacteriology technician?
How to Answer
You can choose to answer this question with a disappointment in your career or in life. Be sure not to bring up names or be negative in your response.
Written by Heather Douglass
1st Answer Example
"I have had many disappointments, like most people, but I believe that we learn from all the experiences we have in life and that the disappointments, as well as the accomplishments, make us stronger and better able to deal with many different situations."
Written by Heather Douglass
2nd Answer Example
"My greatest disappointment was when the employer I worked for passed away and as a result, "‹the business came to an end."
Written by Heather Douglass
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29. What was your greatest accomplishment as a bacteriology technician?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know how you have gone above and beyond in the workplace.
This question provides helpful insight into your ability to evaluate your own performance and your ability to perform above and beyond normal expectations. First, state your accomplishment. Then tell the story of how that accomplishment was achieved and your role in making it happen. If you were part of a team, describe how your interactions with teammates helped in the achievement of the goal.
Written by Heather Douglass on January 7th, 2019
Answer Example
"My greatest accomplishment has been earning my Bachelors while being a full-time parent. It took me a couple extra years but it was a goal of mine that I wanted to achieve"‹."
Written by Heather Douglass
30. Describe a difficult project and how you overcame it?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how you overcome challenges and difficult projects.
Tell the interviewer about your ability to successfully handle difficult situations, how you overcome and what you learn from the situations. Assure the interviewer that you never lose your cool and you always encourage positive communication from team members.
Written by Heather Douglass on January 7th, 2019
1st Answer Example
"We had a task at work to accomplish as a team. It wasn't the fact that the task itself was difficult, it was getting everyone to contribute and work as a team. I was able to identify people's strengths and assign tasks accordingly. Once I took the lead and guided the team, the project ended up being very simple and we finished ahead of schedule."
Written by Heather Douglass on January 7th, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My team and I had a project to complete by the end of the week. We prioritized our timeline accordingly. Our supervisor informed us at the end of the day that the timeline was shortened by a day. We had to re-prioritize and bring a few people into the project. We knocked out the project ahead of schedule."
Written by Heather Douglass
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To overcome this challenge, we first had a team meeting to discuss the updated timeline and come up with a new action plan.
Then, we put in extra hours and adjusted our plan accordingly to complete the analysis before the new deadline. In the end, our efforts and collaboration paid off, and we were able to finish the project on time. This experience taught me the importance of flexibility and adaptability in the face of unexpected challenges, as well as the value of clear communication and teamwork in achieving success."
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