20 General Dynamics Electric Boat Interview Questions and Answers

As a leading provider of technology solutions for the government and business sector, General Dynamics Information Technology has a wealth of experience in a variety of industries. As a result, the company has developed a unique set of interview questions that help assess a candidate’s fit for a particular role.

If you’re interviewing for a position at General Dynamics Electric Boat, you can expect to be asked about your experience in the maritime industry, your technical skills, and your ability to work in a team environment. In addition, you may be asked questions about your experience with specific software programs or technologies.

To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve compiled a list of sample General Dynamics Electric Boat interview questions and answers. By familiarizing yourself with the types of questions you may be asked, you can increase your chances of impressing your interviewer and landing the job.

General Dynamics Electric Boat Interview Process

The interview process at General Dynamics Electric Boat can vary in length depending on the position you are applying for. However, most applicants report that the process is fairly lengthy, often taking several weeks or even months to complete. The difficulty of the interviews also varies depending on the position, but many applicants report that they are quite challenging. Overall, the interview process at General Dynamics Electric Boat is generally seen as being very competitive.

1. What are your career goals?

This question is a great way to learn more about the applicant’s career goals and how they plan to achieve them. It also gives you an opportunity to share your own company’s goals with the candidate.

Example: “I am looking for a position that will allow me to use my skills in a challenging but rewarding environment. I would like to work at a company where I can make a meaningful contribution to the team and the organization as a whole. My goal is to continue growing professionally while helping others do the same.”

2. Tell me about a time you had a conflict with a co-worker, how did you handle it?

General Dynamics Electric Boat, General Dynamics Information Technology wants to know that you can work well with others. This question helps them determine if you have the interpersonal skills necessary for success in their organization.

Example: “I once had a conflict with a co-worker over who should be responsible for a project. I was working on another assignment when my manager asked me to take on this new task. My colleague felt like they should be doing it because they were already working on several projects. I explained to them why I thought I could handle both assignments and we came to an agreement about dividing up the tasks.”

3. How would you solve this engineering problem?

This question is a great way to test your problem-solving skills. It also allows the interviewer to see how you approach challenges and what methods you use to solve them. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific engineering challenge you faced in the past and how you solved it.

Example: “In my last position as an engineer for a large corporation, I was tasked with finding ways to reduce costs while maintaining quality. After researching several different options, I decided that outsourcing some of our production would allow us to save money without sacrificing quality. We were able to hire a new team of engineers who could work on projects we outsourced, which allowed us to cut costs by 10%.”

4. Can you describe a situation where you were able to use persuasion to successfully convince someone to see things your way?

This question is designed to assess your communication skills and ability to persuade others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide specific details about the situation and how you were able to use persuasion to achieve a positive outcome for all parties involved.

Example: “In my previous role as an IT manager at a large corporation, I was tasked with implementing new security protocols across our entire network. This included updating passwords and installing firewalls on every computer in the company. While many employees understood the need for these changes, there were some who didn’t want to change their current password or install the firewall software.

I met with each employee individually to discuss the importance of these changes and why they would benefit them personally. After explaining the reasoning behind the changes, most employees agreed to make the necessary adjustments.”

5. Describe the steps you take when trying to achieve a goal.

This question is a great way to learn more about the applicant’s work ethic and how they approach challenges. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe your process for setting goals and breaking them down into smaller steps that are easier to achieve.

Example: “When I set a goal, I first make sure it’s something I’m passionate about. Then, I break the goal down into smaller tasks that I know I can complete. For example, when I was working toward my bachelor’s degree, I made sure each week I completed at least one class assignment or study session. This helped me stay on track and motivated me to keep going.”

6. Why do you want to work at General Dynamics Electric Boat?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your interest in working at General Dynamics Electric Boat. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific aspects of the company that you are excited about and why they appeal to you.

Example: “I have always been interested in submarines and other underwater vessels, so I am very excited to work at General Dynamics Electric Boat. I also love the idea of being part of such an innovative company that works with the government on defense projects. I think my background as a mechanical engineer would be a great fit for this role.”

7. Describe a difficult work project and how you overcame any challenges.

This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the steps you took to overcome any challenges in your previous role.

Example: “In my last position as an IT specialist for a large corporation, I was tasked with creating a new system that would allow employees to access their email from anywhere. This project required me to create a secure network that could support multiple devices while also ensuring employee privacy. After researching several different options, I decided on using Microsoft Exchange Server 2010. The system has been very successful since its implementation.”

8. If we were to hire you, what do you think would be your biggest challenge as an engineer here?

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you are aware of the challenges of working at Electric Boat and how you plan on overcoming them. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what you know about the company culture and what skills you have that will help you succeed in your role.

Example: “I understand that there are many talented engineers here at Electric Boat, so I would expect that competition for projects would be fierce. However, I am confident that my experience as an engineer has prepared me well for this challenge. I believe that my ability to work with others and communicate effectively will allow me to stand out among my peers.”

9. We have many engineers working on one project, which can lead to disagreements. How would you handle that type of environment?

General Dynamics Electric Boat, General Dynamics Information Technology is looking for an engineer who can work well with others. This question helps them understand how you would handle a situation where multiple engineers disagree on something and need to come to a consensus.

Example: “I have worked in situations like this before, and I find that the best way to resolve disagreements among team members is to first listen to everyone’s point of view. Then, I try to help everyone see things from each other’s perspective. If we still cannot agree, I will ask my manager or supervisor for advice on how to proceed.”

10. Do you have experience in ship design?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your experience with Electric Boat’s specific projects. If you have no experience in ship design, it’s important to highlight other relevant skills and experiences that can help you succeed in this role.

Example: “I don’t have any direct experience in ship design, but I do have extensive experience working on complex engineering projects. In my last position as an engineer at XYZ Technology Company, I worked on several large-scale technology projects including developing new software applications and creating more efficient energy sources.”

11. Have you ever been asked to perform in a leadership role? If so, tell us about it.

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential manager’s leadership style. If you’re interviewing for a management role, it can be helpful to know what kind of leader the hiring manager will be.

Example: “I’ve been asked to lead teams in my previous positions and have found that I’m most comfortable as a team leader who delegates responsibilities to others while also providing guidance and support. In my last position, I was promoted to project manager after only six months on the job. My team members were all highly skilled professionals, but they had varying levels of experience with their roles. I used my own expertise to help them develop their skills and become confident in their work.”

12. What is your approach to communicating information to other people?

This question is an opportunity to show your communication skills and how you can work with others. When answering this question, it’s important to be honest about the way you communicate information to others.

Example: “I believe that effective communication is one of the most important aspects of my job. I always make sure to clearly explain what I’m doing or thinking so that everyone understands. If someone asks me a question, I try to answer as thoroughly as possible so they understand the situation. I also like to ask questions if I don’t understand something because it helps me learn more.”

13. Do you have experience using CATIA V5 or AutoCAD software?

General Dynamics Electric Boat and General Dynamics Information Technology use the CATIA V5 and AutoCAD software to create designs for submarines, ships and other military equipment. If you have experience using these programs, explain how your skills can benefit the company.

Example: “I’ve used both of these programs extensively in my previous role as a mechanical engineer at a defense contractor. I’m familiar with all aspects of the design process, including creating 3D models, building prototypes and testing new products. My knowledge of these programs makes me an asset to the team because I can jump right into projects without needing additional training.”

14. How do you keep up with changes in technology?

This question can help an interviewer understand your ability to adapt and learn new things. It’s important for employees in technology roles to keep up with the latest developments in their field, so it’s helpful if you have a plan for how you’ll do this.

Example: “I’m passionate about technology, so I try to read as many blogs and articles as possible on the latest advancements. I also subscribe to newsletters from major tech companies that send me updates when they release something new. I’ve found these resources to be very helpful for staying informed.”

15. Which area of mechanical engineering are you most interested in?

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the mechanical engineering field and how you can apply it. When answering this question, try to focus on an area that relates to the job description or company values.

Example: “I am most interested in working with robotics and automation systems. I find the idea of creating machines that are capable of performing complex tasks without human input fascinating. In my last role, I worked on a team that developed a robotic system for use in manufacturing plants. The robot was able to perform repetitive tasks at high speeds while maintaining quality control.”

16. Some of our facilities require physical labor, are you comfortable doing that?

This question is a way to assess your physical capabilities and willingness to do hard work. If you have experience working in physically demanding environments, it’s important to mention that on your resume or during the interview.

Example: “I’ve worked as an electrician for over ten years now, so I’m very comfortable with doing physical labor. In fact, I enjoy getting my hands dirty when needed. I think this makes me a valuable asset to any team because I can perform many different tasks.”

17. How well do you work under pressure?

This question is a great way to assess your ability to work under pressure and perform well in high-pressure situations. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a time when you had to work under pressure and how you handled the situation successfully.

Example: “I have worked on several projects that required me to meet tight deadlines. In these situations, I always make sure to plan ahead so I know what tasks need to be completed by which date. This helps me stay organized and focused on my goals. It also allows me to anticipate any challenges or roadblocks that may arise during the project.”

18. In your opinion, what are some common mistakes made by new employees?

This question is an opportunity to show your leadership skills and ability to mentor others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide examples of what you would do differently in those situations.

Example: “I think one common mistake new employees make is not asking for help when they need it. I know that as a new employee, it can feel like you’re expected to already know everything about the company and its processes. However, I always encourage my team members to ask questions if they don’t understand something or are unsure how to complete a task. It’s important to remember that everyone was once a new employee, so we all want to help each other succeed.”

19. How do you prioritize tasks when they need to be done urgently?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you manage your time and responsibilities. Use examples from previous work experiences to explain how you prioritize tasks, meet deadlines and complete projects on time.

Example: “In my last role as a project manager for an IT company, I had several urgent requests that needed to be completed by the end of the day. In these situations, I would delegate certain tasks to team members who were available at that time. For example, if one person was unavailable but another could handle the task, I would assign it to them so they could get started while others finished their assignments. This helped me balance urgent needs with other important tasks.”

20. Are you willing to relocate for the job?

If you’re interviewing for a position at Electric Boat, it’s likely that the company is looking to fill an opening in Connecticut. However, if you are willing to relocate, be sure to let them know about your willingness and discuss any challenges you might face with relocation.

Example: “I am happy to relocate for this job. I have lived in New York City my entire life, but I’m ready for a change of pace. I’ve always been interested in working on submarines, so I would love to move to Connecticut to work here.”