20 Gilbane Building Company Interview Questions and Answers

Gilbane Building Company is one of the largest construction management firms in the United States. With over 50 office locations and 4,000 employees worldwide, Gilbane has a hand in some of the most iconic construction projects in the country.

If you’re hoping to land a job at Gilbane, you can expect the interview process to be competitive. To give yourself the best chance of success, you’ll need to be prepared to answer a variety of questions about your experience, qualifications, and availability.

In this guide, we’ve provided a list of sample Gilbane Building Company interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

Gilbane Building Company Interview Process

The interview process at Gilbane Building Company can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most interviews will start with a phone screen with HR, followed by one or more in-person interviews. The in-person interviews may be with a variety of employees, from different departments within the company. Overall, the interview process is thorough and can be intense for some positions.

1. Tell me about a time you had to prioritize and how you did it.

This question is a great way to assess your time management skills. It can also show the interviewer how you prioritize tasks and manage deadlines. When answering this question, it can be helpful to give an example of a specific situation where you had to prioritize multiple projects or assignments.

Example: “At my previous job, I was responsible for managing several different projects at once. One day, I received two urgent requests from clients that needed immediate attention. In this situation, I decided to focus on one project first before moving onto the other. This allowed me to complete both projects by their respective deadlines.”

2. What is your experience in construction?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your background and experience. It’s important to highlight any unique or impressive experiences you’ve had in construction, such as working on large projects or completing special training.

Example: “I started my career in construction when I was 18 years old. My father owned his own construction company, so I grew up around it. Throughout high school, I worked part-time with him during summers and after school. After graduating from college, I began working full-time at my dad’s company. I eventually became an estimator and project manager, where I oversaw multiple projects and teams.”

3. Do you have any experience with project management software like Procore or Viewpoint?

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience with specific software programs and how you might use them to complete projects for Gilbane Building Company. If you have experience using these types of programs, explain what you like about them and how they helped you in your previous roles.

Example: “I’ve used Procore since my first job as a construction manager because it’s an industry standard that helps me stay organized on site. I find it helpful to be able to create checklists for each project so I know exactly what needs to get done before the deadline. It also allows me to communicate with team members more effectively by sending messages through the program. In my last role, this feature helped me keep track of all the tasks my team needed to do each day.”

4. How do you think that the industry will change in the next 5 years?

Employers ask this question to see if you are up-to-date on the latest industry trends. They want to know that you can adapt to change and implement new ideas into your work. In your answer, explain how you would use these changes to benefit the company.

Example: “I think we will continue to see a shift toward more sustainable building practices. I am passionate about green construction, so I have been taking courses in LEED certification. I hope to one day be able to help my team achieve LEED certification for all of our projects.”

5. Describe a time when you were working on a team project, but one of your teammates was not doing their share of work. How did you handle it?

This question is an opportunity to show your leadership skills and ability to motivate others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation where you helped someone overcome their challenges or encouraged them to do better work.

Example: “When I was working on my master’s degree in architecture, one of my classmates had some personal issues that were affecting her performance in class. She would often miss deadlines for assignments and tests, which made it difficult for the rest of us to complete our own work. I approached her about the issue and offered to help her with any aspect of her coursework if she needed it. After talking with her, we decided that she should drop the course so she could focus on resolving her personal problems.”

6. Have you ever been involved in a mediation process?

This question is a great way to determine how you handle conflict and disagreements. It also shows the interviewer that you have experience working with others, which can be an important skill for this role. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation where you helped resolve a disagreement or conflict.

Example: “In my last position as a construction manager, I was overseeing a project when one of our subcontractors had some issues with their materials delivery. The subcontractor wanted to use different materials than what we agreed upon in the contract, but they were more expensive. After talking with both parties, we came up with a solution that satisfied everyone.”

7. Would you be comfortable working nights and weekends?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your willingness to work overtime. It’s important to be honest in your answer, but you can also explain why you’re willing to do so if it’s not something you would normally choose to do.

Example: “I’m happy to work nights and weekends when necessary, however I prefer to have more regular hours during the week. In my last position, we had several projects going on at once that required us to work late into the night and over the weekend. I was able to adjust to this schedule because I knew it was only temporary.”

8. Are you willing to travel for this position?

Employers ask this question to make sure you are willing to travel for work. They want someone who is flexible and can adapt to different situations. When answering, be honest about your willingness to travel. If you have a problem with it, explain how you would overcome that issue.

Example: “Yes, I am willing to travel for this position. I understand that sometimes there will be long days on the road. However, I am used to traveling for my current job. I know how to pack efficiently so I don’t waste time in the car. I also always stay focused on the task at hand while driving so I don’t get distracted.”

9. How would you respond if an employee came to you with a complaint about another employee?

This question can help the interviewer assess your conflict resolution skills. Use examples from past experiences to show how you would respond and resolve a conflict between employees.

Example: “I have had this experience in my previous role, where an employee came to me with a complaint about another employee’s behavior. I listened to their concerns and asked them for more details on what happened. Then, I spoke with the other employee privately and explained that I received a complaint about their behavior. They apologized and promised not to repeat the behavior.”

10. Can you tell me about a time where you handled a stressful situation?

Employers ask this question to see how you handle stress and pressure. They want to know that you can stay calm under pressure, communicate well with others and solve problems effectively. When answering this question, think of a time when you faced a stressful situation at work or in your personal life. Explain what caused the stress and how you overcame it.

Example: “When I was working as an architect for a small firm, we were designing a new building for a client who wanted something unique. We spent weeks trying to come up with ideas but couldn’t find anything that would meet our client’s needs. Finally, I decided to take a walk around town to clear my head. While walking, I noticed a local coffee shop had a mural on one wall. I realized that if we painted the entire building like a mural, it could be just what the client wanted.”

11. What are some qualities you think make someone a good leader?

Employers ask this question to see if you have the qualities they’re looking for in a leader. They want someone who can motivate their team and get things done on time. When answering, think about what makes you a good leader. Try to focus on your leadership skills rather than technical or management skills.

Example: “I think one of the most important qualities of a good leader is being able to motivate others. I am always trying to find new ways to inspire my team members so that we all work hard and stay motivated. Another quality I think is important is communication. As a leader, it’s my job to make sure everyone knows what’s going on and how we’re doing our jobs. This helps me keep track of everything and ensure that no one has any questions.”

12. If hired, what type of projects would you want to work on?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your interests and goals. They want to make sure you are a good fit for their company, so they also want to know that you would be happy working on the projects Gilbane Building Company takes on. When answering this question, try to pick one or two types of projects that interest you most. Explain why those projects appeal to you.

Example: “I am very interested in working on commercial construction projects. I find it rewarding to see businesses grow and expand. I think my skills as an estimator would be useful when helping plan out these projects. Another type of project I would love to work on is residential construction. I enjoy working with homeowners to create beautiful spaces that meet their needs.”

13. Give us an example of a time where you had to use critical thinking skills.

Employers ask this question to see if you have the ability to solve problems and make decisions on your own. When answering, try to give an example that shows how you used critical thinking skills to come up with a solution or idea.

Example: “When I was working as a construction manager for a small company, we were building a new house when one of our subcontractors had to leave town unexpectedly. This left us without a plumber for two days, which meant we couldn’t work on the plumbing in the house. I decided to hire another plumber who could help us until our original plumber returned. It ended up being more expensive than originally planned, but it was better than not having any plumbers at all.”

14. What is your experience with CAD software?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn about your experience with computer-aided design software. This is a common tool used in construction, and the interviewer wants to know if you have any prior experience using it. If you do, share an example of how you used it to complete a project successfully. If you don’t have much experience with CAD software, explain that you are willing to learn.

Example: “I’ve been working with CAD software for over five years now. I started out as an intern at a local architecture firm where I learned how to use several different types of CAD software. I found that I was particularly good at using AutoCAD, so I continued to practice my skills with it throughout my internship. Now, I am comfortable using both AutoCAD and Revit.”

15. Which area of construction interests you most?

This question is a way for the interviewer to learn more about your background and interests. They may ask this question to see if you have experience in an area of construction that aligns with their company’s focus. When preparing for this question, think about what areas of construction you are most passionate about. Consider which aspects of construction excite you the most and relate them back to the job description.

Example: “I am very interested in working on high-rise projects. I find it exciting to work on tall buildings where every detail matters. In my last role, I worked on several residential homes, but I also helped with some commercial projects. I really enjoy learning new things, so I was happy to help out wherever needed.”

16. What is your background in engineering?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience in the construction industry. If you have a background in engineering, share what degree or certification you have and how it applies to this role. If you don’t have any formal training, explain what other skills you’ve developed that make you qualified for this position.

Example: “I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from State University. I worked as an intern at Gilbane Building Company during college where I learned valuable skills like project management and budgeting. After graduation, I was hired by Gilbane Building Company full-time where I continue to use these skills every day.”

17. Why do you want to work at Gilbane Building Company?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your motivations for applying. They want to know that you are passionate about the work they do and why you would be a good fit for their company. When preparing for this interview, make sure to read through the job description so you can refer to specific requirements or expectations. In your answer, try to highlight how your skills and experience match up with what they’re looking for.

Example: “I have always been interested in construction, but I never thought it was something I could pursue as a career. After taking some classes at my local community college, however, I realized that I really enjoyed working with my hands and building things. I am excited to apply for this position because I think Gilbane Building Company is an excellent place to start my career. Your reputation precedes you, and I’m confident that I can bring value to your team.”

18. What do you think makes a successful project manager?

This question can help the interviewer get to know your management style and how you would approach a project. Use examples from previous projects or experiences that highlight your skills as a manager.

Example: “I think a successful project manager needs to be organized, detail-oriented and able to communicate effectively with team members. I’ve found that these three skills are essential for keeping projects on schedule and within budget. In my last role, I managed a large construction project where we had to work around other contractors who were also working on their own projects. I used my communication skills to coordinate schedules and keep everyone informed about our progress.”

19. What is your favorite part about being on a team?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you as a person and how you interact with others. Teamwork is an important part of construction, so it’s likely that your answer will reflect this.

Example: “My favorite part about being on a team is getting to work with people who are passionate about their jobs. I love seeing my coworkers excited about what they’re doing and helping them learn new things. It makes me feel like we’re all working together toward a common goal.”

20. What kind of environment do you prefer to work in?

Employers ask this question to make sure you will be happy working at Gilbane Building Company. They want employees who are going to fit in with the team and enjoy their work environment. Before your interview, think about what kind of workplace you would thrive in. Think about what makes a place feel like home for you. Try to find similarities between that place and Gilbane Building Company.

Example: “I prefer an open office space where I can collaborate with my coworkers. I also really value privacy when I am working on projects. I need time to concentrate without distractions. I think Gilbane Building Company is similar because it has private offices as well as shared spaces.”