MockQuestions

Manufacturing Engineer Mock Interview

31 Questions Created By

To help you prepare for your Manufacturing Engineer interview, here are 31 interview questions and answer examples.

First Question

31 Manufacturing Engineer Interview Questions

10 Interview Questions With Sample Answers

1.   How will you plan to work with the operational management to be successful at your job?

How to Answer

Manufacturing engineers will need to work closely with production and operations managers during the course of their career. Many times, manufacturing engineers operate in support roles to these types of managers. Operational managers will assign tasks to manufacturing engineers, but are not usually their direct supervisors. It is important that you show you will take direction from and work well with the staff you are supporting. Also, it is important to show that you understand your project schedules (and often your personal work schedule) will be determined by production needs, which can be quite dynamic.

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Answer Example

"I have always operated in a support role for the operations group. Usually, the production manager will identify areas where they need help to meet their KPIs and then ask for support. Once they have requested support in a given area, I will investigate the root cause and work to implement countermeasures to solve whatever problem is leading to the KPI gap. I have always had a very good relationship with the production managers in my areas; they know I will support them whenever and however I possibly can."

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Experienced Example

"Working with operational management usually includes measuring productivity data on the floor and compiling data reports to discuss during meetings. I believe daily and sometimes hourly checking in is important to be aware of what goals there are for operations, if any problems have arisen, and simply staying on my toes."

Written by Daniel Neuhaus on November 4th, 2022

2.   What is the importance of communication?

How to Answer

In addition to communication skills, this question asks you to address your reliability and critical thinking skills. Show your interviewer that if they hire you, they can rely on you to transfer important information between team members or between the design team and the customer.

Written by Allison Atkinson on January 8th, 2021

Answer Example

"I believe that explaining information clearly and concisely and using active listening skills are important for good communication. In this position, I'll be required to modify and improve existing equipment, and it's important to communicate well to ensure I can create a solution that actually improves the process and meets the project budget and installation schedule."

Written by Allison Atkinson on January 8th, 2021

Experienced Example

"Without communication, a company cannot function. You need to talk to each other in detail and frequently to stay on top of projects effectively. Emails should often be documented for reference due to the important data can contain. Communication given in quantifiable data can be used to track a company's progress and operational health. Too, responding to suppliers, requesting, administrating quotes, and hiring the right contractors requires accurate details and follow-ups. Getting the right data to the right people is key to proper function of a company. As a bonus, being personable simply makes things easier on everyone."

Written by Daniel Neuhaus on November 4th, 2022

3.   Do you have any previous safety training?

How to Answer

As a Manufacturing Engineer you will probably have to go through safety training. This may include OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER training, OSHA 10-hour training, or facility-specific training. In your answer to this question, tell the interviewer if you have completed this training before and affirm your commitment to safety.

Written by Allison Atkinson on January 8th, 2021

Answer Example

"Last summer I worked for a construction company and I had to get my OSHA 40-hour certification. I know that I'll have to renew this certification when I get started here. Safety is important to me and I always wear the appropriate PPE. I want to make sure my coworkers and I go home at the end of the day. What facility specific training do you provide?"

Written by Allison Atkinson on January 8th, 2021

Experienced Example

"Having taken various industrial courses, I am very familiar with in-depth safety concepts and have even written basic safety documentation for certain machines. Hands-on safety practice was vital when I worked in construction, so I know a lot of safety standards by heart. Any other safety certificates necessary, I am happy to take even as a refresher."

Written by Daniel Neuhaus on November 4th, 2022

4.   What do you believe is an individual's role when working with a team?

How to Answer

Manufacturing Engineers typically work on projects with people in different roles and with different priorities. These members may include the plant manager concerned about scheduled down-time, an engineering manager concerned about budgeting and responsible for reporting to corporate, a mechanic who will be responsible for keeping the equipment working on a daily basis, and an outside contractor. Understanding your role within the larger team is critical to ensuring the project moves smoothly. Show the interviewer that you know different team members have different roles and that you are reliable.

Written by Allison Atkinson on January 8th, 2021

Answer Example

"I believe that an individual's role within a team is first and foremost one of accountability. If I do my job well and others can count on me, then I know that I am contributing to the project's success. I am committed to remaining available to contribute in the ways I am needed."

Written by Allison Atkinson on January 8th, 2021

Experienced Example

"The role of an individual is to be responsible with his work and do it well first and foremost because all of the team's work corresponds with and depends upon each other's. 2nd priority is to take each other's load upon one another's shoulders and support where necessary. The following are also important: communication, working according to company standards, and creating records and documentation for reference when possible."

Written by Daniel Neuhaus on November 4th, 2022

5.   Tell me about a time when you had to work under pressure.

How to Answer

The position of manufacturing engineer will probably require you to handle more than one project at once. It will also involve working in plants which can be noisy, dirty, and often are not temperature controlled. The interviewer is asking if you know how to manage being in a stressful environment. Avoid mentioning a situation when you created the stress or saying that you fold under pressure. Instead, focus on showing how you took action to manage the pressure caused by an external situation.

Written by Allison Atkinson on January 8th, 2021

Answer Example

"In my last position, I was a Quality Engineer in the automotive industry responsible for day-to-day production. At one point, I was responsible for adjusting a jig that was screwing on car doors incorrectly. I was nervous because the whole line was stopped due to this one jig, and it was up to me to get it going again. The key here was verification. After adjusting the jig, I watched a couple car doors go through to make sure the fix was working correctly. Soon after, the line was up and running again, and I was relieved."

Written by Allison Atkinson on January 8th, 2021

Experienced Example

"Once, I had a workload of 90 order lines to fulfill in 3 months which was 3 times higher than I had been used to. My supervisor would consistently check on them. In order to compensate, I would routinely ask if any coworkers had availability to receive delegated work. Additionally, I worked 12-hour shifts until the deadlines resumed normal levels."

Written by Daniel Neuhaus on November 4th, 2022

6.   If a customer requests that you share data that you feel may be damaging to your company, how do you react?

How to Answer

Direct customer communication will probably not be a primary responsibility of a manufacturing engineer, but they will almost certainly find themselves communicating with customers intermittently. It is important that an engineer be truthful and accurate when communicating with customers, but they should also be cognizant of the information they are sharing and its intended purpose. When in a customer-facing role, it is important that all employees represent the company well and put the company's best foot forward. If the engineer feels that they are being asked to share sensitive information or something that may cast the company in a negative light, they should always consult with management before sharing. In your answer, be sure to demonstrate emotional intelligence and communication skills, which are often perceived to be lacking in engineers.

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Answer Example

"I am used to having direct communication with the customer and sharing important technical information about the performance of processes that I am assigned to. I make sure to always be professional, accurate, and timely in my communication. I realize that when communicating with the customer, I am the face of the company and I am serving in a de-facto customer service role. If the customer requests information that I feel is sensitive, or information which I do not think they are entitled to receive, I will consult with my direct manager before sharing. If the information the customer requested ends up being something they are not privy to, I will respond politely. In this case, I will include my manager in any correspondence, so the customer has an ability to inquire further if they disagree with the decision."

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Experienced Example

"I would request to follow up at a later time. Then, I would evaluate and consider the consequences, the trust level associated with the customer, and the sensitivity level of the data. If it seems unsafe, I would verify according to policy, then my higher-ups and coworkers are more experienced in the matter."

Written by Daniel Neuhaus on November 4th, 2022

7.   When visiting a potential equipment supplier, how would you evaluate their readiness for a project?

How to Answer

A manufacturing engineer's opinion of a potential supplier will most likely be an important factor in whether or not the supplier is selected for a given project. It is important that the manufacturing engineer is capable of evaluating suppliers fairly and consistently. It is also important that the engineer's opinion is not formed strictly based on cost competitiveness. As with most other aspects of a manufacturing engineer's job, it is imperative that they use a structured and analytical approach to evaluating vendors. Your answer to this question should show that when evaluating a proposed supplier, you will be considering multiple aspects that affect the ability of the supplier to adequately deliver the products and services needed by your employer.

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Answer Example

"When visiting a potential supplier, I always ask to meet with the management or owner of the business. I will ask that they show me examples of other customers and similar projects which they have completed. If they can supply examples of past work that make me confident that they can meet our needs, then I will ask to perform an audit on their shop. As part of this audit I will check on many aspects of the business that are required for proper support of our project, as well as the overall cleanliness and organization of the shop."

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Experienced Example

"I would ask to see their floor of operations. If it seems up kept, that is a plus. But the supplies/ tools should be stocked or at least seem operational. For example, if all of the CNC machines are turned off, and no machinists are present on a weekday, that is a red flag. Also, speaking with the staff and their impression - if they seem alert and capable, that is a good sign. Most important, though, is their level of concern with my presence - if they are customer oriented, it will show."

Written by Daniel Neuhaus on November 4th, 2022

8.   Do you have any applicable certifications? Are there any certifications which you would like to pursue while you work here?

How to Answer

Generally, manufacturing engineers are not required to have any specific certifications, but possessing and working towards certifications shows that a employee is engaged and interested in their field. A black-belt certification can be particularly desirable, but a CMfgE, PE, Lean Manufacturing, or other certification would still be viewed as a positive. It is important that you be prepared to discuss areas that you see as opportunity for future development and advancement in your career. Be sure to express where you would like to grow and how you would ask the employer to help you do so.

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Answer Example

"I currently do not hold any applicable certifications, but I am interested in pursing my CMfgE. I have been studying for this certification and hope to take the test within the next year. Additionally, I would like to receive training in the operation of FANUC robots so I can be more effective at my job."

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Experienced Example

"Currently, I possess Six-Sigma certification. I would like to gain certificates in Industry 4.0 (smart factories) and CNC. Before really choosing too many more, I would like to work for a year to see which certificates would most benefit the company. Also, whichever the senior employees recommend."

Written by Daniel Neuhaus on November 4th, 2022

9.   How do you go about identifying potential projects that you should be working on?

How to Answer

As with most engineers, the bulk of a manufacturing engineers workload will often be assigned by their management. However, it is desirable for an engineer to be able to identify the highest impact areas for them to dedicate their time to. Ideally, a manufacturing engineer will present their leadership with an idea for a project along with the project's expected result. As with other areas, it is important to demonstrate that you are analytical, and your selection of what to work on will be based on quantitative figures that have a direct impact on company KPIs.

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Answer Example

"Since I maintain a close relationship with the operations team, I am usually in tune with their pain points. I use their feedback to compile a running list of problems on my laptop. I will try to assign a rough cost or KPI impact of each problem. Then, based on the cost and difficulty of implementation, I will try to pick projects that can be implemented relatively easily and have a large impact on the company's KPIs. Those are the projects I take to my management and ask to work on."

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Experienced Example

"I would start by asking my higher-ups and coworkers. Then, I would measure data and seek to find bottlenecks and try to eliminate them. Too, I would study each part of the process and note potential ways to improve them. Additionally, I would study and research cutting-edge technology, different techniques, or breakthroughs for manufacturing and see if any could be applied to the facility."

Written by Daniel Neuhaus on November 4th, 2022

10.   How do you measure your success as a manufacturing engineer?

How to Answer

It is very important that manufacturing engineers are analytical and data-driven, thus it is important that they use their KPIs and business impact to define their level of success. It is ok if an engineer values soft metrics, but their performance should mainly be measured by hard data. Your answer to this question should show that you are driven by business performance and that you constantly remain cognizant of your performance relative to KPI targets.

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Answer Example

"While I pride myself in delivering excellent customer satisfaction and helping make peoples' jobs easier, I understand that my performance is ultimately defined by my execution of my goals and performance relative to my individual KPIs. I measure my success not only by the KPIs I am measured against in my evaluation, but also by my ability to drive positive change in business metrics for the company I work for."

Written by Jon Dale on January 31st, 2021

Experienced Example

"A couple of methods. One: set daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly goals for myself and measure the difference between my output and that intended. Also, I would find some sort of global data source of competitor output and set my goal to at least twice theirs whether it be production output or quality, for example, and measure the difference each month. Additionally, I would seek regular feedback from my higher-ups, "

Written by Daniel Neuhaus on November 4th, 2022

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