25 Environmental Scientist Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Environmental Scientist interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. What questions do you have for me?
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 questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers to from merely watching a video on their company site!
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"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 of 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 most significant change in this industry over the past three years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I have been a fan of your company's projects and research for as long as I can remember and I am curious what the vision is for introducing your research to new markets?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"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?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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What type of career growth opportunities would follow this position?
What are you looking for in a candidate?
What would be a reason I wouldnt get hired?
When are you are wanting the applicant to start?"
Amanda's Feedback
2. What is the most challenging part of supervising environmental technicians and junior scientists?
How to Answer
As an environmental scientist in a leadership position, you may find that you have difficulties with your employees. A few challenges you may face are balancing being the boss and being a friend, interpersonal conflict on a team or having employees with bad attitudes. Show the interviewer that you are capable of handling challenging leadership situations. If you have not been in a leadership role, talk about an example you have had in the past from a great supervisor. State that you would like to emulate that person's leadership style.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I have not been in a leadership position as of yet; however, I have had some great leaders as examples in my past. My most recent supervisor was excellent at keeping the peace in a high-stakes environment. He knew everyone's motivators and worked with those when he wanted better performance."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"The most challenging thing about supervising technicians and other junior scientists is figuring out what style of communication works for each person. Also, finding out everyone's motivators can be a challenge at first."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I love being a leader and the challenges that come with it. I would say that the most challenging aspect of leading other scientists is to get past everyone's ego. I am not negatively mentioning this - it's just a simple fact the when you have a room full of highly educated people, and Ph.D.'s, ego's can get in the way. I overcome this by showing up with a humble attitude and being a practical example to my team."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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3. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
How to Answer
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with delays in the workplace.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"In science, se"‹tbacks happen for a reason, and they do not affect me emotionally in the least. I am a very pragmatic thinker and stay focused despite the challenges that come my way."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing and can be a bit disheartening, especially when research hours are lost for example. I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback, I will take a few moments to debrief with my manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Then, I move on!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"Setbacks can be trying, but I find that you have to learn how to lose before you learn how to win. While I never enjoy a setback, I use them as a stepping off point to something even better."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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4. Tell me about yourself.
How to Answer
When an interviewer asks an open-ended question like this, it can be difficult to know where to begin...and end! This question haunts many individuals who may accidentally go a little too in-depth into their personal lives. It happens. Keep your reply light, and work relevant. Share how you became interested in this career path and what you enjoy about it. This question is an excellent opportunity to describe yourself by discussing the strengths and qualities that you bring.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I am a very active individual who loves to workout and go to the mountains on the weekend. I feel that my level of activity on my off time greatly improves my work during the week. I have a high amount of energy to offer!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I have always taken a liking to science. I was involved in several clubs and organizations in college that helped to foster my interest. I especially enjoyed working on environmental clean-up efforts in the community, which raised awareness for local environmental issues and got the community involved in helping out their neighborhood. I continue to seek out similar small projects to do with my husband and two young kids. We love to stay active and be outside as a family. I am a very loyal, driven, and honest person who cares a great deal about protecting our world."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I am a calm and quiet leader, with excellent written and verbal communication skills. Even though I am quiet, I can motivate my team and keep morale high. I take my career in biological science very seriously and often spend time on the weekends immersed in personal research through reading and listening to industry related podcasts."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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5. As a scientist, team communication is key to your success. What experience do you have using team-based messaging applications?
How to Answer
As you know, when you are working on a science-based project, there is a multitude of moving parts and potentially many hands in the kitchen. For this reason, tools for clear team communication are essential. There are many options for communication software and messaging applications. Give the interviewer a brief overview of the apps you are experienced in and assure them that you can learn their internal system, should it be new to you.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I have limited experience with team messaging apps in the workplace. However, I have used them during my time in university for group projects and connecting with professors. It would be great to have a simple and quick messaging system in the workplace."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I love team-based messaging applications! I have utilized many of them with direct teams and remote teams. They are effective for updating communications and keeping on track with the progress of team-based work projects."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I have used a variety of team-based messaging applications. I am best versed in Brosix, AOL Instant Messenger, and Freedcamp. No matter which system you use I am sure that I can pick it up very quickly."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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6. What are your strengths as an environmental scientist?
How to Answer
Describe which personal strengths make you excellent at your job. Advantages can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks.
In a work context, your strengths will help you to complete your to-do list, understand client needs, and help you to apply what you have learned in your training. Talk to the interviewer about a couple of your strengths and why those will help you to be successful in this role.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"Some great strengths to mention are:
- Communicative
- Loyal
- Collaborative
- Tech Savvy
- Flexible in Schedule/Availability
- Persistent and Determined
- Eager for Knowledge/New Skills"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I think my strengths are in my perceptiveness and ability to be observant of the needs of others. These strengths are part of what makes me an excellent performer in a client facing role."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I think my greatest strengths are in my communication skills- both written and oral. I use these daily while leading my team of junior scientists, writing grant proposals, RFP's or making phone call pitches to our private funders."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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7. How do you believe you will complement our department if you were hired?
How to Answer
If you were awarded the position, explain what you would bring to the department or organization. Assure the interviewer that you are the right fit for this position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"If I were hired, I will compliment your department by adding value to the pressing initiatives you have prioritized such as conservation and environmental sustainability."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"If I were hired, I feel that I would compliment your organization in a few significant ways. First - I am a fast learner, and I already bring six years' experience in this industry. The time to train me will be reduced. Also, I will bring a solid amount of research on ecosystems, which you mentioned you were looking for in your next hire."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"From what I understand, this department has minimal turnover, which is fantastic. If hired, I will bring an outsiders perspective with different experiences and methods, and hopefully, I can help find some areas to improve upon in your research and labs."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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8. Do you prefer to work in the field, or in a lab setting?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if there is a particular environment in which you enjoy working. Reflect on your ability to be flexible in most situations. Consider whether you've experienced a position where the situation wasn't conducive to your productivity. Be sure to know the type of environment offered in this position before the interview.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I am newer to my career as an environmental scientist and would love to have some hands-on, field experience. It's necessary for me to cut my teeth as a new scientist, in my opinion. This environment is a big reason why I applied for this role."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I am able to be productive in most work environments, so long as the mentality is positive and teamwork is encouraged. I enjoy lab work because it's so precise and also field work because it's active and unpredictable."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"As an experienced biological scientist, I have worked both in the field and in the lab. At this point in my career, my interest is more in leading junior scientists in either setting. The environment is not as much a concern to me as the ability to grown in my leadership capabilities."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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9. When conducting scientific research, how often do you create alternative scenarios for potentially unexpected outcomes?
How to Answer
As an environmental scientist, you need to be ready for unexpected outcomes when it comes to your research and findings. Being able to problem solve and think outside the box when it comes to changing situations is a valuable skill set. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to create a variety of potential scenarios.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I am ready to adapt at all times. Alternate scenarios are a must in science-based research. One of my professors taught me to always work in 'what-ifs' because, in science, plans change and fail on a regular basis."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I feel that it is essential to create alternative scenarios in all research situations. One cannot guess what will happen in the end, so it is great to be prepared for all possible outcomes."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I frequently received and gave feedback at my last job. I proactively scheduled a weekly touch base with my manager to seek out feedback and connect on pressing issues. The feedback was often positive, and I would take the lead navigating situations I was unclear on by enlisting the expertise of my peers."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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10. Tell me about a career related goal that you set and did not reach. How did you recover from the disappointment?
How to Answer
Tell the interviewer about a goal you set for yourself, but failed to meet. Show the interviewer that you are ambitious and, rather than giving up, you are going to try to achieve that goal again. Everyone has goals they have failed to reach so do not be embarrassed about that aspect. The interviewer is more interested in knowing that you are persistent and tenacious.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"Right out of university, I set the goal of being the department manager of a junior scientist division by my second year. That would have been six months ago, and I am, as you know, actively pursuing the role with your organization. Although I am slightly off track on my timeline, I do not feel defeated. I know I have the skill set needed to succeed in the role."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"Last January, I set a goal to learn the C++ programming language by June; however, a few unexpected work-based projects came up which slowed my progress. Instead, I have been practicing and studying the language every Sunday evening. I hope to be comfortable with the programming language by August."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I wanted to become a principal scientist in my field by the time I was 34 years old. It took me longer than I expected but I realized I needed to go through the experiences I had to be the type of principal I am today."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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11. As an environmental scientist, you will face a significant amount of diversity among your coworkers. Are you accustomed to this?
How to Answer
Working in a scientist role, you will have co-workers that come from many backgrounds, specialties, areas of focus, and years of experience. Explain your experience working with a very large or diverse team of individuals or maybe with cross-functional teams. Assure the interviewer that you can handle an environment that offers diversity.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"In my current role, I work alongside cross-functional teams regularly. Together, we manage our research projects very well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I have worked with diverse groups of people most of my career, including my time in university. I am most comfortable, and happy, in this type of environment because it offers a great learning opportunity."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I would say that pretty much every company I have worked for has valued diversity. Working with people from all walks of life help shed different perspectives and identify potential problems faster."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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12. How do you encourage creative thinking with your fellow scientists?
How to Answer
Encouragement to others is a great skill to possess. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to encourage creative ideas in your team members.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"Here are some ways that you can encourage ideas in others:
- Get to know them and what they like to work on
- Send an encouraging email letting them know you like their plan or ideas
- Publicly praise their efforts
- If they are doing a great job, offer them more related opportunities
- If you are a leader, then tell them that you like their ideas
- Say things like 'Well done' or 'Nice work' on a regular basis
- Show that you believe in their quality of work before they even deliver it"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I like to encourage other people to be creative in their thinking and present ideas to the company, no matter how off the wall they may seem. Some of our most successful employees are ones who are confident in their ability to bring forward their unique ideas. I encourage participation through an open door policy and strong praise for those who show initiative."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I encourage people to tap into the best parts of themselves. It helps to ask probing questions to get them to generate ideas on their own. I have found that by painting a long-term vision for where I want to go, my team will often jump in with creative solutions to get us there."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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13. Have you ever broken a confidentiality agreement?
How to Answer
Companies will have confidentiality agreements for a variety of reasons. These could be to protect their trade secrets or to ensure that you do not bring clients over on the occasion that you leave their company. Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on confidentiality agreements.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"No. I have only once had a confidentiality agreement and had no problem adhering to it."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I never have, to my knowledge, broken a confidentiality agreement. Despite my reasons for leaving a position, I would never choose to hurt a previous employer in any way."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"Confidentiality agreements are necessary and important to protect an organization. I understand the need for confidentiality and take those factors very seriously. I have never broken the trust of my employer."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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14. What made you choose to become an environmental scientist?
How to Answer
Th. It can be anything, ranging from your parents, some relative, your school teacher, or even your curiosity towards the current changes in the environment etc. Whatever is your reason, be honest about it and inform it to the interviewer in a nice positive manner.
Sometimes, money is also our motivation behind making a career choice but this is not something that you might want to use for this answer. So, use something that sounds unique and assures the interviewer about the fact that you are in this profession to make a change and not just for the money.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I grew up with both parents as a scientist, and my mother specifically was an environmental scientist. She was so passionate about her work that it inspired me to follow in her footsteps. I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and look forward to starting a long and fruitful career with your organization."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I want to become an environmental scientist because I have always been curious about the recent changes in the environment and I wanted to do my share of duty towards improving the situation as much as I can."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I have carved a very successful career for myself, within environmental science, over the past decade. After graduating high school, I spent one year traveling to a variety of undeveloped countries. This trip changed the way that I thought about the way we consume and pollute in our more developed countries. This was when I decided that I could make a difference by working in environmental science."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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15. What are your salary expectations for this environmental scientist role?
How to Answer
The best thing that you can do when asked about your salary expectations is to be open and honest about what you are currently earning, and where you want to be in the future.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"As I am a recent graduate, I would like to be offered a fair salary that reflects my recent education. I am most concerned with joining an organization that will help me to grow my career in (industry). Compensation is not my primary driver."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I can share with you what I am currently earning, and where I would like to be in my next position. Currently, I am earning a base salary of $78K plus an annual bonus opportunity of an additional 10%. Last year my earnings were $85K, and I'd like to earn a bit above that in my next position."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"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."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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16. Which scientific literature resources are your favorite?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you are interested in your work as an environmental scientist and that you eagerly stay up to date on industry changes and trends. List a couple of your favorite resources and also be sure to ask the interviewer which resources they prefer to use. This can be an excellent learning opportunity for you as well as the chance to open up a great conversation.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"While attending University, I was given many great resource suggestions by my professors. I most utilize E/The Environmental Magazine and Earth Policy Institute. I am always open to learning new resources. Which is your favorite?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I have a google alert set up for a few topics and keywords. This way, I get the latest news sent straight to my inbox on a daily basis. This helps me keep abreast of the environmental related news. Which resources do you utilize the most often?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I prefer to use government based resources such as the EPA, the Energy Department, and the NOAA. I will also look to other more entertaining resources such as Grist Magazine. If you have any other suggestions for me, I would be happy to discuss those as well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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17. Describe your working relationship with your previous or current colleagues.
How to Answer
This answer should hold a balance of bragging about yourself a little bit and giving an honest answer. Think about some common compliments that you receive from your co-workers or the regular feedback that you receive in meetings and reviews.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I try to be a helpful colleague, always looking for an opportunity to pitch in while learning a new skill at the same time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"My coworkers often comment on my attention to detail and go-getter attitude. I am proud of the person that I am at work - always willing to learn new skills and teach someone a new skill."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I have great relationships with my co-workers, both past, and present. I bring a calm attitude to my work, zero ego, and the ability to provide helpful feedback while also receiving it with grace."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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18. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
How to Answer
It's impossible to know where you will be in 5 years but do assure the interviewer that, given all possible circumstances, you could see yourself as a long-term fit for their position.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"In 5 years I would like to be seen as an authority in our industry. I would like to be well-connected and trusted when it comes to my work here."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"Ideally, five years from now, I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization. My career interests align very nicely with your company's goals which helps me to see a great long-term fit here."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"Five years from now, I would like to be supervising or managing a team of my own. I feel like I am progressing at a rate that will make this a possibility."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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19. What type of environmental test equipment have you used in the past?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know what type of monitoring equipment that you have used in your career so far. As an environmental scientist, you will have exposure to a great variety of equipment. Before your interview, take a look at the job description and mention some of the material listed in the description, if possible.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I have had some hands-on experience during university with equipment such as particle counters, pH meters, and evaporators. I look forward to being exposed to an even wider variety of equipment in this role."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I have been lucky enough to have been exposed to the use of a wide range of equipment including temperature chambers, biofuel analyzers, balances, evaporators, stability chambers, particle counters, and pH meters. I see in your job description that you are looking for expertise in biofuel analyzers. I have approximately eight years' experience with this."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I think that, through my eighteen years as an environmental scientist, I have used it all! My specialty includes metal analysis and the equipment that comes along with this expertise. I understand from your job description that this is valuable experience for this role. Are there any other specific types of equipment that you would like to see experience in?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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20. Do you have experience with asbestos?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know the extent of your experience with asbestos. Discuss any time you have worked with building inspections that involve asbestos, supervised asbestos abatement contractors, collected asbestos air samples, or did an onsite analysis of asbestos air sample cassettes.
Describe your ability to perform air, soil, or water sampling. If applicable, share your experience in the oversight of subcontractors, and health and safety monitoring activities. These experiences can be considered an advantage and can help you beyond the closed doors of a laboratory.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I have not worked in any asbestos based projects; however, did complete a unit of asbestos while obtaining my Bachelor of Science degree. I look forward to learning more about the topic of asbestos."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I have worked on approximately three asbestos focused cases in my career. I would rate my level of experience still as a beginner compared to others; however, I am more than willing to gain further knowledge on this topic."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I have experience with asbestos from a few projects where I supervised asbestos abatement contractors. My experience is at an intermediate level, and I look forward to advancing this."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
21. Why are you the best environmental scientist for us?
How to Answer
Bragging about yourself in an interview can be tough to do, but this is your time to shine! Describe which characteristics and career accomplishments have made you a stand-out candidate. Perhaps you have received some academic awards or have been given individual accolades in your most recent position. There is nobody like you, and now you need to express that to the interviewer.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I have the necessary experience, skill sets, and ambition to add great value to this role. I am looking forward to the opportunity!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I am the best candidate for you because I have a consistent history of exceeding my targets and meeting project deadlines. I have been promoted two times in the last year which is nearly unheard of in my current company."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I am the best candidate because I have the right background, education, and experience. I know that I can jump right in and get going with very little training time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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22. When have you had to change a major component of your project, due to new information being presented?
How to Answer
Being able to swivel the focus of your project is a necessary skill for your success as an environmental scientist. Talk to the interviewer about a time when a significant change occurred on a project. Consider how you handled the implementation of the new information.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"Last year we saw new federal regulations come through which affected 80% of our ongoing projects. We had to adjust our plans; however, we were able to deliver a timely product that met federal regulations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I had a large project last month that was nearly complete when the client called to say that some of the needs provided were incorrect. Because of this, our team had to re-do the entire proposal. It took us an additional four days of work but, in the end, the client was delighted with our work, and it resulted in new opportunities for them."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"All of the time! As an experienced environmental scientist, I see many projects that need to be revisited and nearly scrapped in their entirety, at times. It can feel defeating; however, there is always something to learn through these events."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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23. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
We all like to be recognized in some way for our accomplishments in the workplace. Share with the interviewer how you would want to be known for your hard work. Consider if you prefer gifts, awards, financial perks, public recognition, kind words, title promotions, etc.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I am very simple. I do not require any formal recognition, but kind words from my coworkers and superiors will keep me motivated and working hard."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is to be given words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged, and the best reward for me is to know that my hard work is being noticed."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I love accolades given, in sincerity, by those whom I respect. I appreciate the shout-out in the company-all meeting, but honestly, it's even better when others know that my hard work is not only noticed but appreciated and commended."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
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24. What kind of events cause you stress on the job? How do you deal with stress?
How to Answer
Stress can often be a regular part of the day to day work experience. Talk to the interviewer about which areas of your career are the most stressful. Ensure that your answer does not include a factor that would make you appear unfit for the position. (IE: an environmental scientist should not research to be the most stressful part of the job).
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"I probably bring myself the most stress because of my drive and desire to be/do the best I can be. I manage this by focusing my energy on productive activities that are good for my career."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"The part of my career that brings me the most stress is when the schedule is running behind due to lack of hustle on my teams part. I really like to be on time with my schedule to ensure that my projects are running smoothly."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I become more stressed when workloads are high, and my team seems less responsive than usual. In these situations. I will hold one on one meetings in these cases to check in with each team member and find out what they need to pick up the pace and meet expectations."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Amanda's Feedback
25. What do you like most about being an environmental scientist?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know what you enjoy most about being an environmental scientist. This is likely the factor that will continue to motivate you on the toughest of days.
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Entry Level
"The one thing that I like most about being an environmental scientist is the fact that I love the research involved. I am a strong researcher and look forward to utilizing this skill with your organization."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Answer Example
"What I enjoy most about being an environmental scientist is that I am paid to do what I love! Being on top of environmentally related issues and finding solutions for them, is all very exciting to me. The ever-changing landscape of the environment is fast-paced and keeps me engaged on a daily basis."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Experienced
"I love so many aspects of my role as an environmental scientist. If I had to choose one, it would be the fact that I get to help a variety of important ecosystems. Our planet needs us, and it's important that we continue to help it."
Written by Rachelle Enns on April 1st, 2021
Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback
Anonymous Answer
Amanda's Feedback