Vol. 2: How to Prepare for a Technical Manufacturing Interview

Employee Insights Volume 2: How should you prepare for a technical interview in the manufacturing industry?

Stepping into a technical Interview in the manufacturing space can feel like operating complex machinery- precision and preparation are crucial!

In this article we will give you the blueprint and schematics of a successful interview, gear by gear. 

Prepare to be equipped for a stellar interview and make a strong impression that sets you up for your next opportunity. 

The main aim of any interview is to answer two main questions for prospective employers, “can this person do the job”, and “do we think they are a fit for the team”.

To a degree, the resume answers the first question but not entirely. This is where a strong interview can tilt the odds in your favor. This is your opportunity to highlight yourself as the best candidate available with your thoroughness and subject matter expertise. 

While there are multiple facets for an interview, we will focus on 3 key items for interviews for technical roles.

3 Key Items for Interviews for Technical Roles

1. Technical Proficiency

While interviewing for a technical role, keep in mind that the prospective employer is looking to add a competent professional to the team. 

Chances are these roles will require you to interface with highly technical equipment such as machinery, or programming software. In any case, both require a high degree of sensitivity and could cost the company large sums of money if not handled properly. 

Your aim is to convey confidence and thoroughness in your ability to help their department. 

1. Be familiar with the brands of machines and software’s you’ve used.

2. Be able to explain the functions and purposes of various equipment and how they relate to each other.

3. Speak to the frequency and level of involvement, while referring to certain aspects of the job.

4. Understand the order of operation and where their role provides the most value.

5. Provide examples of times you’ve executed other tasks.

1. Regulatory Compliance/Safety 

1. Depending on the industry, be sure to know which governing agencies apply to your industry, such as OSHA, FDA, FAA, etc. and how they interact with the operation.

2. Be able to explain certain standards depending on your industry such as ISO 9001, SQF, HACCP.

3. Clearly explain the protocol and value of safety practices such as LOTO, if applicable. 

4. Be able to express the order of operation of certain tasks while adhering to any regulatory agencies in a safe manner.

2.  Relevant Initiatives 

1. While being asked questions regarding your relevant experience, provide examples of times you successfully executed a similar task with a favorable result.

2. Although the person you speak with may know the role as well as you do, be sure to detail how you accomplished the job from start to finish along with any challenges you may come across.

3. At times, you may have taken the initiative to improve a process or solve a difficult problem. If the opportunity arises, explain the value added from your initiative and how it impacted the team.

4. Another trait employers look for is leadership. Share any times you may have mentored, coached, and trained other employees to improve the overall team aptitude and develop a talent bench.

3. Bonus!-Best Practices

1. Be sure to arrive promptly, gather and compose yourself, and set your intention to have a great meeting. 

2. Do your research! Review the company website, like About Me, to learn more about what this company focuses on. 

3. Be presentable. While we all have different styles, ensure you are well groomed with appropriate interview attire. 

4. Learn the interviewers’ names and address them as such. Ensure to have adequate eye contact and minimize your “umms” and “likes”.

5. Connect with a FLAG recruiter for additional interview prep and Best Practices.

In this fast paced, dynamic employment market, technical interviews are much more than showcasing your skills-it’s about demonstrating your readiness to work and contributing your expertise to the employer. 

Remember, every question is an opportunity to highlight how you added value, every challenge is your time to share how you’ve shined.

Are you ready to take the next step? 

Let FLAG guide you to your next opportunity with our industry expertise, our network, and team of talented recruiters that can open the right doors.

Cheers to your Success! 

#WESTANDFORYOU