20 Esri Interview Questions and Answers

As the global market leader in GIS, Esri is always looking for talented and ambitious individuals to join their team. If you’re lucky enough to land an interview with this company, you’ll want to be prepared to answer some tough questions.

In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of some of the most common Esri interview questions, so you can go into your interview with confidence.

Esri Interview Process

The interview process at Esri can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most positions will require at least two interviews, one with a recruiter and one with the hiring manager. For some positions, there may also be a panel interview with multiple members of the team. The length of the hiring process can vary depending on the position, but it is typically fairly lengthy.

Overall, the interview experience is generally positive. Interviewers are typically thoughtful and well-spoken. However, some applicants have found the process to be overly long and bureaucratic. Additionally, some applicants have been disappointed with the salary offers they received.

1. What is your experience working with GIS software?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience with Esri software. If you have worked with other GIS software, be sure to explain the similarities and differences between that software and ArcGIS.

Example: “I’ve used many different types of GIS software in my career, but I find that ArcGIS is the most user-friendly. It has a lot of great features for data management and analysis, which makes it easy to use even if you are new to GIS. In my last position, I was responsible for managing all aspects of our mapping projects, including creating maps using ArcGIS.”

2. How do you think spatial data will be used in the future?

This question is a great way to see how the candidate thinks about technology and innovation. It’s also an opportunity for you to learn more about Esri, as it gives you insight into what we do and why we do it.

Example: “I believe spatial data will be used in many different ways in the future. I think that there will be more integration between physical and digital maps, which will allow people to use their phones to find information about places they visit. There will also be more integration with other technologies like IoT devices, which will help us collect even more data about our world.”

3. Tell me about a time when you had to solve a complex problem using your own creative solutions.

This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and how you use them in the workplace. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide an example of a time when you used your own creativity to solve a complex issue or challenge.

Example: “In my last role as a GIS analyst, I was tasked with creating a map that would display crime rates across the city. However, there were no existing maps that displayed this information. So, I decided to create a new map using open data from the police department. This allowed me to create a more detailed map than ever before, which helped the police department make better decisions about where they should focus their resources.”

4. Describe one of your projects that was particularly difficult, how did you handle it?

This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and how you handle challenges. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the steps you took to solve the issue or challenge.

Example: “I was working on a project for a local government agency that required me to create a map of all the roads in the county. The county had no digital records of its roadways, so I had to manually enter each road into the system. This process took several weeks, but once complete, I was able to use the data to create an interactive map that allowed residents to report potholes and other issues.”

5. Are you familiar with building and developing web applications?

The interviewer may ask you this question to see if you have experience with Esri’s development platform, ArcGIS Online. If you do not have experience with ArcGIS Online, explain what web application development is and how it works.

Example: “I am familiar with building and developing web applications. I worked as a front-end developer for my previous employer where I was responsible for creating websites using HTML, CSS and JavaScript. I also used the ArcGIS API for JavaScript to create maps that users could interact with.”

6. Do you have any experience working on cross functional teams?

Working in a cross-functional team is an important part of working at Esri. The company values collaboration and teamwork, so it’s likely that you will be asked to work with other departments on projects. Your answer should show the interviewer that you are comfortable working with others and can communicate effectively.

Example: “I have worked on several cross functional teams throughout my career. I find that collaborating with different departments helps me solve problems more efficiently. For example, when I was working as a GIS analyst for City Hall, I had to create a map that showed where all the potholes were located across the city. I knew that the public works department would have access to this information, so I reached out to them and they provided me with data about which roads needed repairs. This allowed me to complete my project much faster than if I had done it alone.

7. What makes Esri different than other companies for you?

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the company and how you can contribute to its success. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight what makes Esri unique in the GIS industry. You may also want to mention any specific features or products that make Esri stand out from other companies.

Example: “I have been using Esri software for many years now, so I am very familiar with the company. One thing that sets Esri apart from other GIS companies is their commitment to customer service. The support team at Esri is always available to help me when I need assistance with my projects. Another reason why I would love to work here is because of the innovative technology they are constantly developing. Their new ArcGIS Pro 2 platform has made mapping much easier for me.

8. Have you ever worked remotely before?

Working remotely is a common practice in the GIS industry. Employers may ask this question to make sure you are comfortable with working from home or another remote location. In your answer, explain why you would be able to work effectively from a remote location.

Example: “I have worked remotely for the past three years. I find that it helps me stay focused and productive because I don’t have to commute to work every day. It also allows me to spend more time with my family since I can work during times when they are at school or after they go to bed. I am very comfortable working remotely and feel like I could continue doing so if hired by Esri.”

9. What are some challenges you see coming up as an intern?

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the industry and how you can help solve problems. You should be prepared to discuss some challenges that are currently facing GIS professionals, as well as what you would do to overcome them.

Example: “I see two major challenges coming up in the future for GIS professionals. The first challenge I see is the lack of diversity in the field. There aren’t many women or minorities working in this field, which means there isn’t much representation when it comes to hiring new employees. As an intern, I think we need to work on getting more people from underrepresented groups into the field so they can become leaders in their own right.

The second challenge I see is the fact that most people don’t know about GIS. Many companies use GIS but don’t realize all the benefits it has to offer. I think we need to start educating people on what GIS is and why it’s important to have someone who knows how to use it.”

10. What type of environment do you work best in?

The interviewer may ask this question to determine if you would be a good fit for the work environment at Esri. To answer, think about what type of work environment you enjoy and how it relates to the job description.

Example: “I thrive in an environment where I can collaborate with others on projects and learn new things every day. At my last job, I worked in a large team that was constantly innovating and finding new ways to use GIS technology. This experience has made me passionate about working in a similar environment.”

11. What kind of leadership style do you gravitate towards?

The interviewer may ask this question to get a sense of your leadership style and how it might fit with the company’s culture. When answering, consider what kind of leader you are and which styles others gravitate towards.

Example: “I am an empathetic leader who is always looking for ways to help my team members grow. I believe that everyone has something unique to offer, so I try to create a safe space where people can share their ideas and learn from each other. In my last role, I noticed that many employees were hesitant to speak up in meetings, so I started holding smaller group discussions before larger ones to give everyone a chance to contribute. This helped me understand the perspectives of more team members and find solutions to problems they raised.”

12. If hired, what would you like to accomplish during your first 90 days at Esri?

This question is a great way to assess an applicant’s goals and ambitions. It also gives you insight into how they plan their workday, week or month. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what you would want if you were the hiring manager.

Example: “I would like to learn as much as I can about Esri products and services. I know that there are many resources available for me to do so, including online training and in-person workshops. I would also like to meet with my team members to get to know them better and understand their roles within the company. I am excited to start contributing to projects and helping others solve problems using GIS technology.”

13. What types of problems do you enjoy solving?

This question can help the interviewer understand your interests and how you approach solving problems. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific problem that you solved in the past and what steps you took to solve it.

Example: “I enjoy working with complex data sets and helping clients find solutions to their unique challenges. In my last role as an ArcGIS developer, I worked with a client who was looking for ways to use GIS to predict where customers would shop based on their previous purchases. After researching several different predictive modeling techniques, I determined that neural networks were the best option for this particular project.”

14. How do you stay organized when there are multiple deadlines approaching all at once?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you prioritize your work and manage multiple projects. Your answer should show that you are organized, detail-oriented and able to meet deadlines on time.

Example: “I use a calendar app to schedule my daily tasks and weekly goals. I also use this app to create reminders for upcoming deadlines so I don’t forget about them. This helps me stay on top of all my assignments and ensures I am meeting all my deadlines on time.”

15. Why should we hire you over another candidate?

This question is a great opportunity to show your knowledge of the company and how you can contribute to its success. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight your relevant skills and experience that make you an ideal candidate for the position.

Example: “I am passionate about GIS technology and have been using Esri software since I was in college. My background in GIS has helped me develop my analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for any geospatial analyst. In addition, I have extensive experience with ArcGIS Online and Portal, as well as other Esri products such as Collector, Geostore and GeoAnalytics. This makes me a highly qualified candidate for this role.”

16. How many hours are you able to dedicate to this internship?

This question is a great way to determine if the internship will be a good fit for you. If you are looking for an internship that requires a lot of work, this may not be the best option. However, if you are looking for something more laid back, this could be a great opportunity.

Example: “I am able to dedicate at least 20 hours per week to this internship. I understand that there may be times when my schedule changes and I cannot make it in, but I would do my best to keep those instances to a minimum.”

17. How do you ensure that your code remains secure and bug free?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of coding and how you apply it in the workplace. Your answer should show that you understand the importance of security when working with code.

Example: “I always ensure that my code is secure by testing it thoroughly before I implement it into a project. I also make sure that I am using the latest version of software, which helps me avoid bugs.”

18. What skills or traits do you think make someone successful at Esri?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the company and how you can be a good fit. When answering, it’s important to highlight skills that are relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Example: “I think being successful at Esri requires a lot of creativity and problem-solving skills. I have always been someone who thinks outside the box when solving problems, which has helped me in my previous positions. I also believe collaboration is key to success at any organization, so I would make sure to work well with others on projects.”

19. Describe a situation where you were being asked to do something unethical, how did you respond?

This question is a great way to assess your moral compass and how you would respond in an uncomfortable situation. When answering this question, it’s important to be honest about the situation and show that you have strong values and principles.

Example: “I was once asked by my manager to falsify data for a client who wanted to hide some of their information from other companies. I politely declined the request and explained that I could not do so because it would violate company policy and possibly even the law. My manager understood my position and we were able to find another solution for the client.”

20. Provide an example of a time when you built rapport with a coworker.

This question is an opportunity to show your communication skills and ability to work with others. When answering, think of a time when you helped someone feel more comfortable or confident in their role.

Example: “At my previous job, I worked with a coworker who was new to the company. She had some anxiety about her performance and how she fit into our team. I noticed that she would often stay late at night working on projects, so I asked if she needed any help. We met for coffee one day after work and talked about what she was working on. After that, we started meeting once a week to go over her projects together. By helping her understand her value to the team, she became much more confident in her work.”