20 Kiewit Corporation Interview Questions and Answers

As one of the largest construction and engineering firms in North America, Kiewit Corporation is always looking for talented and ambitious individuals to join their team.

If you’re hoping to land a job at Kiewit, you’ll need to be prepared to answer some specific questions about your skills and experience. In this article, we’ll give you some examples of Kiewit interview questions so you can go into your interview with confidence.

Kiewit Corporation Interview Process

The interview process at Kiewit Corporation can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For entry-level positions, you may have a phone call with a recruiter followed by a recorded video interview. For more experienced positions, you may have multiple interviews that last anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours. The company is known for being very professional and engaging during the interview process.

1. Tell me about a time you had to work with a difficult client, how did you handle it?

Employers ask this question to see if you have experience working with clients who are challenging. They want to know that you can handle difficult situations and still complete your work successfully. In your answer, try to show that you can be diplomatic when working with a client who is upset or angry.

Example: “I once had a client who was very demanding. He would call me several times a day asking for updates on the project. I tried my best to keep him updated while also making sure he understood that I needed time to finish the project. Eventually, he stopped calling as often because he knew I was doing everything I could to get his project done.”

2. Can you describe the difference between a project manager and an engineer?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your understanding of the construction industry and how it works. In your answer, try to explain what each role entails and why they’re important in a project’s success.

Example: “In my experience, engineers are responsible for designing projects from start to finish while project managers oversee the entire process. Engineers use their expertise to create plans that meet client needs and ensure safety standards. Project managers then take those plans and manage the team members who will build them. They also monitor budgets and timelines to make sure the project stays on schedule.”

3. How do you handle stress on the job?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your ability to handle pressure and stressful situations. They want to know that you can complete tasks under pressure, meet deadlines and work well with others when the job is challenging. In your answer, share a specific time when you faced stress on the job and how you overcame it.

Example: “I have worked in construction for many years now, so I’ve experienced my fair share of stressful situations. One time, we were working on a project where there was a tight deadline. We had to rush to get everything done before the client’s deadline, which meant long days and nights at work. However, I knew that if we didn’t finish by the deadline, we would lose the contract. So, I focused on getting as much work done as possible each day while still maintaining quality. By doing this, we finished the project on time.”

4. What is your experience working for a company in this industry?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your experience and how it relates to their company. Use this opportunity to share what you’ve learned from previous employers, including any skills or knowledge that helped you succeed in your role.

Example: “I worked for a construction company as an apprentice before I started my bachelor’s degree. This job taught me many valuable skills, such as safety practices and communication techniques. It also gave me the chance to work with experienced professionals who shared their expertise with me. My current position at Kiewit Corporation is similar to my apprenticeship because I’m learning new things every day.”

5. Why are you interested in working at Kiewit?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your motivations for applying to this position. Use your answer to highlight what you know about Kiewit and how it fits with your career goals.

Example: “I’m interested in working at Kiewit because of its reputation as a leader in construction services. I’ve always been passionate about engineering, so I would love to work for a company that offers such diverse opportunities. I also appreciate that Kiewit is committed to providing quality service while maintaining safety standards. These are all reasons why I want to join the team.”

6. What role would you like to have in construction projects?

This question helps employers understand your career goals and how you see yourself fitting into the company. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific role or type of work that interests you.

Example: “I would like to have a management position in construction projects. I find that I enjoy working with others on large-scale projects and helping them meet deadlines. In my last job, I was promoted to project manager after only two years because of my ability to manage multiple tasks at once and communicate effectively with other team members.”

7. What do you believe sets Kiewit apart from other companies in this industry?

This question can help the interviewer understand your knowledge of Kiewit and how it compares to other companies. Use examples from your research about Kiewit’s history, values or mission statement to show that you are familiar with this company.

Example: “I believe what sets Kiewit apart is its commitment to safety. I read in an article that Kiewit has one of the lowest injury rates in the construction industry, which shows me that the company cares about its employees’ well-being. Another thing that sets Kiewit apart is its dedication to diversity. The company was named as a top employer for women by Forbes magazine.”

8. Describe any challenges you have faced when working as a team member or leader.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you handle challenges and whether you have any unique experiences that could be beneficial to Kiewit Corporation. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific challenge you faced and how you overcame it or what you learned from it.

Example: “In my last position as an engineer for a construction company, I was working on a project where we had to build a new bridge over a river. The client wanted us to use recycled materials in the construction of the bridge, which meant we would need to find ways to recycle some of the existing materials used in the original bridge. This presented a challenge because there were no recycling facilities nearby that could process the materials we needed to recycle. However, I worked with other engineers to come up with a solution that allowed us to meet the needs of our clients while also being environmentally friendly.”

9. Have you ever worked under an aggressive timeline? How did you manage the pressure?

Employers ask this question to see how you handle pressure and deadlines. They want to know that you can work well under stress, prioritize tasks and meet your goals on time. In your answer, share a specific example of when you worked under an aggressive timeline and what steps you took to manage the pressure.

Example: “I once had to complete a project in just two weeks. I knew it would be challenging, so I met with my team members to discuss our strategy for completing the project within the deadline. We decided to divide up the project into smaller tasks and set daily goals. This helped us stay organized and focused on the task at hand.”

10. Do you enjoy traveling?

Kiewit Corporation has many opportunities for employees to travel. This question helps the interviewer determine if you are comfortable with this aspect of the job. If you have experience traveling, share a story about one of your favorite trips. If you don’t have much experience traveling, explain how you would feel about it and what steps you would take to prepare yourself.

Example: “I love traveling! I’ve been fortunate enough to visit several countries in Europe. My favorite trip was when my family visited Italy. We spent most of our time exploring Rome, but we also took day trips to Florence and Venice. It was an amazing experience that I’ll never forget.”

11. Are you comfortable living in remote locations while working on projects?

Kiewit Corporation often works in remote locations, so the interviewer wants to make sure you’re comfortable with this. If you have experience working in these types of environments, share it with them. If you don’t, explain that you are willing to learn and develop the skills needed for this type of work.

Example: “I’ve worked on several projects where I was one of the only people on site. While I prefer having a few other people around me while I’m working, I am very comfortable living in remote locations. In fact, I find it quite peaceful when there aren’t many distractions.”

12. If hired, what type of training would you need to be successful in this position?

Employers ask this question to make sure you’re willing to learn and grow in your new role. They want employees who are eager to take on challenges and develop their skills. When answering, think about what type of training or education you would need to succeed in this position. Explain that you have the ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.

Example: “I believe I already possess the necessary skills for this position. However, if hired, I would be open to taking additional classes or workshops to improve my knowledge and skill set. I am always looking for ways to better myself as a professional and an individual.”

13. How do you feel about working overtime?

This question can help the interviewer understand your willingness to work extra hours when needed. It can also show them how you feel about working in a construction environment, which often involves long days and nights. In your answer, try to be honest about whether or not you’re comfortable with overtime work. If you are, explain why. If you aren’t, explain what you would do if asked to work overtime.

Example: “I’m happy to work overtime as needed. I know that sometimes it’s necessary for projects to stay on schedule. However, I always make sure to take care of myself so I don’t get too tired. I’ve learned from past experience that taking breaks is important.”

14. When was the last time you were involved in a group decision-making process?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your leadership skills and how you collaborate with others. Use examples from previous work or school experiences to highlight your communication, problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Example: “At my last job, I was part of a team that had to decide on which projects we would take on for the next year. We each presented our ideas and then discussed them as a group. In the end, we decided to focus on larger construction projects rather than smaller ones because it would allow us to hire more employees.”

15. What makes you a good fit for this company?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you feel about the company. Before your interview, research Kiewit Corporation’s website and social media pages to see what they value most. Use these things as a guide for answering this question.

Example: “I am a hard worker who is always looking for ways to improve my skills. I noticed that Kiewit Corporation has an excellent training program, so I would love to be part of it. I also think that I would fit in well with this company because I have experience working on large projects like those you do.”

16. Provide an example of a time when you had to put others’ needs ahead of yours.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you prioritize your work and whether you’re willing to do so. Use examples from previous jobs where you had to put others’ needs ahead of yours, such as working overtime or taking on additional responsibilities.

Example: “In my last position, I was responsible for managing a team of five people. One day, one of my employees called out sick, leaving me with only four workers. I knew that we were behind schedule on our project, but I also knew that if I didn’t have enough staff members to complete the job, it would be even later by the time we finished. So, I decided to stay late at the office to finish up some of the work myself while my other employees worked on their assignments.”

17. Would relocation be required if hired?

Employers may ask this question to determine if you’re willing to move for a job. If they are looking to hire someone who will stay with the company long-term, they might want to know that you’re not planning on moving in the near future. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention any reasons why you would or wouldn’t relocate.

Example: “I’m happy where I live now and don’t have plans to move anytime soon. However, if your company offered me an opportunity that was too good to pass up, I would consider relocating.”

18. What do you know about our products/services?

This question is a great way to test your research skills and knowledge of the company. Before you go into an interview, make sure you thoroughly read through the job description and familiarize yourself with the company’s products and services. This will help you answer this question more confidently and show that you are prepared for the role.

Example: “I know Kiewit Corporation has been in business since 1939 and specializes in construction, mining and engineering services. I also know that you have locations all over North America and Europe and that you’ve won many awards for your work.”

19. How do you think Kiewit can improve its efficiency?

This question can help the interviewer understand your knowledge of Kiewit and how you might contribute to its success. Use examples from your research or personal experience to explain how you would improve efficiency at this company.

Example: “I think that by implementing a project management software, Kiewit could streamline communication between employees and managers. This system would allow for easier collaboration on projects and provide an organized way to track progress. I have used similar systems in my previous roles and found them very helpful.”

20. What do you look for in a supervisor?

This question can help the interviewer understand your expectations for a supervisor and how you would interact with them. Use examples from previous supervisors to show that you value communication, honesty and respect in a leader.

Example: “I look for a supervisor who is honest about their goals and expectations. I also appreciate when they are available to answer questions or provide feedback on my work. A good supervisor should be someone who supports their team members and helps them develop professionally. In my last position, my supervisor was always willing to listen to my ideas and offer advice. She also helped me find opportunities within the company to advance my career.”