20 Michael Baker International Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to interviewing for a job at Michael Baker International, you can expect to be asked questions that are specific to the company and the role you’re applying for.

In this guide, we’ll give you an overview of the types of questions you may be asked in a Michael Baker International interview, as well as some tips on how to answer them.

Whether you’re interviewing for a position in engineering, project management, or another area of the company, preparing for your interview ahead of time will help you feel more confident and increase your chances of impressing the hiring manager.

Michael Baker International Interview Process

The interview process at Michael Baker International can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most interviews will involve a phone screening with HR followed by a video interview with the hiring manager and a technical manager. The questions asked will mostly be regarding your work history and work style. The overall experience is generally relaxed and casual.

For some positions, like civil engineering associate I, you may be interviewed by a panel of 3 people. The questions asked in this type of interview are typically about how you would handle a situation, what negative traits you have, and other personality questions about your motivation, drive, and goal setting.

In general, the interview process is fairly straightforward and easy. However, it is always important to do your research on the company beforehand so that you can be prepared to answer any questions that come up.

1. What do you know about Michael Baker International?

This question is a great way to test your research skills and knowledge of the company. It’s important to show that you’ve done your homework before coming in for an interview. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something specific about the company that you admire or find interesting.

Example: “I know Michael Baker International has been around since 1979. I also know that they have offices all over the world, including locations in Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe and Asia. I’m impressed by how long the company has been operating and its global reach.”

2. When is a good time to use an iterative process as opposed to a waterfall process?

This question can help the interviewer determine your knowledge of different project management processes. Use examples from past projects to explain when you used each process and how it helped you achieve success.

Example: “I’ve found that an iterative process is best for complex projects with many unknowns, while a waterfall process works well for projects with clearly defined goals and objectives. In my last role as a senior project manager, I worked on both types of projects. For example, in one instance, we had to create a new website design for a client who wanted to update their brand image. We used an iterative process because we needed to test several iterations of the website before our client was satisfied with the final product.”

3. Do you have any experience with Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word and Excel?

This question is a great way to determine if you have the necessary skills and experience with Microsoft Office Suite. It’s important that you can use these programs because they are commonly used in many businesses. If you don’t have any experience, consider taking a class or practicing on your own so you’re prepared for this interview.

Example: “I’ve been using Microsoft Word since I was in high school when I took my first computer science course. I also learned how to use Excel during that same time period. Throughout my career, I’ve continued to practice and hone my skills with both of these programs.”

4. What is your knowledge of the Critical Service Provider program?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the company and its policies. It also allows you to show that you have done research on the company before applying for the job. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention how you would use the Critical Service Provider program to benefit the company if you are hired.

Example: “I am familiar with the Critical Service Provider program because I worked at another construction company where we used it as well. The program helps ensure that employees get paid even when there is no work available. This is important because it prevents people from leaving the company due to financial issues. In my last role, I was able to help implement some changes to the Critical Service Provider program that made it more effective.”

5. If hired, what would be your approach to designing software for an assembly line?

This question is a great way to assess your technical skills and how you apply them in the workplace. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide an example of how you would approach designing software for an assembly line.

Example: “When working on projects that involve creating software for industrial applications, I like to start by researching the client’s current processes and identifying areas where improvements could be made. For instance, if I were hired by Michael Baker International to create software for one of their clients who has an assembly line, I would first research the company’s current production methods and identify ways we could improve efficiency.”

6. What are some challenges that come from working in a team environment?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle working with others and your ability to collaborate. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific time when you worked in a team environment and faced challenges but overcame them together.

Example: “In my previous role as an engineer, I was part of a large project team that had many different members from various backgrounds. This meant we often had to communicate through several different mediums, including email, phone calls and face-to-face meetings. While this helped us overcome language barriers, it also made communication more difficult at times. However, we always found ways to work around these challenges by communicating clearly and asking questions if needed.”

7. Tell us why you want to work at General Motors.

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the company and its culture. It also allows you to talk about what motivates you in your career. When answering this question, it’s important to be honest and specific.

Example: “I want to work at General Motors because I’ve always been inspired by the brand. My father worked for GM for over 30 years, so I grew up around cars. He taught me how to change oil and check tire pressure, which has helped me immensely as an adult. I love working with my hands and learning new things, so I decided to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering. I’m excited to use my skills to help build vehicles that people can enjoy.”

8. What would be your vision for this role if you were hired?

This question is a great way to assess your goals and ambitions for the role. It also allows you to show how you can contribute to the company’s success. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what you would like to achieve in this position over the next few years.

Example: “I believe that my vision for this role would be to help Michael Baker International grow its client base while maintaining high-quality service. I have noticed that many of the clients are repeat customers, which shows that MBIC has already achieved some growth. However, I want to continue growing the business so that we can expand our services and hire more employees.”

9. How can Michael Baker International improve its services?

This question can help the interviewer determine your knowledge of Michael Baker International and how you might contribute to its success. Use examples from your experience working with other companies that provide critical services, such as utilities or transportation, to show how you helped them improve their service delivery.

Example: “I worked for a company that provided water treatment services to several communities in California. The company was experiencing issues with some of its equipment, which caused it to lose customers. I suggested we hire more technicians to repair the equipment so we could meet our deadlines and keep up with demand. We hired additional staff and were able to get back on track.”

10. What was one difficult project where you had to make decisions on your own?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you make decisions and solve problems on your own. Use examples from previous work experiences to highlight your problem-solving skills, leadership qualities and ability to think critically under pressure.

Example: “In my last position as a project manager for an engineering firm, I was managing a large construction project that required us to build a new bridge over a river. The client wanted the bridge to be built in a way that would allow it to withstand high winds and heavy rains. However, this meant we had to use more expensive materials than originally planned.

I decided to meet with the client to discuss their expectations and explain why the changes were necessary. They understood our reasoning and agreed to pay for the additional costs.”

11. Tell me about a time when you disagreed with your manager, how did you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you handle conflict and disagreements. It can also show them your problem-solving skills, communication skills and ability to work with others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of when you disagreed with your manager but were able to come to an agreement or compromise.

Example: “I once had a disagreement with my manager about whether we should build a new building for our client or renovate the current one. I felt that if we renovated the current building, we could save money for the company while still providing our client with what they needed. My manager agreed, and we decided to renovate the building instead of constructing a new one.”

12. What is your experience with managing teams?

This question can help the interviewer determine your leadership skills and how you interact with others. Use examples from previous jobs to explain how you managed teams, organized projects or delegated tasks.

Example: “In my last position as a project manager for an engineering firm, I led a team of five engineers who worked on various construction projects. My role was to manage the budget, schedule and quality control of each project. I also helped my team members resolve any issues they encountered while working on their assignments. In this role, I learned how to delegate tasks effectively and communicate clearly with my team.”

13. Do you prefer working alone or in a group setting? Why?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you might fit into their team. They may be looking for someone who is a good communicator and collaborator, so they want to know that you’re comfortable working with others. Your answer should show that you are willing to work in a group setting but also enjoy working alone when necessary.

Example: “I prefer working in a group setting because I find it more motivating than working alone. However, I am very independent and self-motivated, so I don’t need constant supervision or feedback. I like being able to bounce ideas off of my colleagues and collaborate on projects.”

14. What are some of your favorite things to do outside of work?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential new colleagues. It’s also an opportunity for you to show the interviewer that you’re passionate about something other than work and are able to balance your life with hobbies and interests.

Example: “I love to travel, so I’m always looking for deals on flights or hotels. I’ve been to several countries in Europe and am planning a trip to South America next year. I also enjoy cooking, so I spend time learning new recipes and techniques from my favorite chefs.”

15. How familiar are you with design standards such as AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications and ACI 318?

The interviewer may ask you questions about design standards to see if you are familiar with the company’s industry. You can answer this question by describing your knowledge of these standards and how it applies to your work experience.

Example: “I am very familiar with AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications and ACI 318, as I have used them in my previous roles. In fact, I find that understanding these standards helps me complete projects more efficiently because I know what information I need to include in a proposal or report.”

16. Have you ever worked long hours? Under what circumstances? How did you deal with that situation?

This question is designed to determine how you will handle working long hours and nights. It’s important for the interviewer to know that you can work under pressure, but also that you have a plan in place to ensure your own well-being while on the job.

Example: “I’ve worked many long hours during my career as an engineer. I understand that sometimes it’s necessary to put in extra time to get projects done. However, I always make sure to take care of myself by getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals and exercising regularly. I find that this helps me stay focused and productive throughout the day.”

17. What has been your most successful project to date? What made it so successful?

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you are proud of your work and have the ability to take on challenging projects. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention what made the project successful and how you contributed to its success.

Example: “My most successful project was when I worked with my team to build a new hospital in an area where there were no hospitals nearby. We had to make sure we met all deadlines while also making sure the hospital was safe for patients. It took us about two years to complete the project, but we were able to meet all our goals and exceed expectations.”

18. Describe your experience developing cost estimates.

This question can help the interviewer assess your experience with a key part of the job. Use examples from previous work to show how you developed estimates and used them to complete projects on time and within budget.

Example: “In my last position, I was responsible for creating cost estimates for all project phases. This included gathering information about the client’s needs, researching materials and equipment costs and determining labor costs based on the number of workers needed for each phase. I also had to consider any potential risks that could affect the overall budget. By considering these factors during the estimate process, I was able to create accurate budgets that helped me meet deadlines and stay within client budgets.”

19. What are some professional accomplishments that you are proud of?

This question is a great way to learn more about the candidate’s background and what they are passionate about. It also allows you to see how much they have grown professionally in their career. When answering this question, it can be helpful to include some of your most recent accomplishments that relate to the job description.

Example: “I am proud of my promotion to project manager at my current company. I worked hard for that position and it was rewarding to know that all of my hard work paid off. Another accomplishment I’m proud of is being named employee of the month twice in one year. This showed me that I was doing something right and motivated me to continue working hard.”

20. How do you go about learning something new?

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of how you approach new challenges and opportunities. Use your answer to highlight your ability to learn quickly, adapt to change and apply new skills in your work.

Example: “I find that I learn best when I’m actively engaged with my learning materials. When I first started working as an engineer, I was tasked with creating a blueprint for a project. I had never done this before, so I watched several videos on YouTube about how to create blueprints. Then, I practiced by making a few blueprints myself until I felt comfortable enough to do it on my own. Now, I use this same method to learn new things at work.”