Manufacturing Engineer Mock Interview
Master 31 Manufacturing Engineer interview questions covering process optimization, lean principles, and production systems.
Question 9 of 31
What is your willingness to work a flexible schedule? Are you open to working odd hours, evenings, holidays, or weekends?
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This question is very likely to come up in interviews for manufacturing engineers. You should be prepared to answer honestly. Many of a manufacturing engineer's core tasks can only be completed during non-production time (i.e. installing new equipment, making changes to existing equipment, etc.). For this reason, it is very important that the manufacturing engineer be open to working at the times required. Problems can occur at odd or inconvenient hours, and they must be immediately resolved. It is likely that a manufacturing engineer will be expected to answer the phone and be available to come to work, as needed. If you are not comfortable with this, you should be honest, but know that an inability to be flexible with your schedule will likely be a deal-breaker for this position.
"I am very willing to work as needed. I prefer to work mainly day-shift hours, but I make myself available, as needed, to support production issues or projects, as necessary. Most projects that I have been responsible for in the past have been completed over shut-down periods, so I am used to being flexible around holidays."
Daniel Neuhaus is a Tool Design Engineer with 10 years of CAD experience and 3 years in the manufacturing field. He is a University of Cincinnati Alumni with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology.
"My job is my responsibility, and as a manufacturing engineer, there are many factors for which I would be responsible. Therefore, I am willing to remain in constant availability. in case issues may arise or odd hours of work are required. In fact, I have worked over 70-hour weeks when deadlines were tight."
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Anonymous Answer
Having worked in a brewery for the past year, I understand the need for a flexible schedule. I understand that that is the nature of work in a factory. I wanted to work in manufacturing because it is quite hands-on and perhaps a bit chaotic too in some sense. I do not mind the un-routinely lifestyle that comes with such a job. I am happy to have the time to myself and my family when I've earned it. Finding work-life balance can be a challenge at times. But my partner is supportive and that along with the fact that I like my work makes things easier.
Marcie's Feedback
Awesome answer! You sound very confident in your ability to manage a flexible schedule that includes odd hours. You even appear excited about it, and your passion for the industry shines through in your answer. Excellent!
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