20 PCL Construction Interview Questions and Answers

PCL Construction is a construction company that provides a complete range of construction services, from renovation to modular construction to advanced digital technologies. The company has a long history of success, and its employees are highly skilled and experienced.

When it comes to interviewing for a job at PCL Construction, you can expect to be asked questions about your experience, your skills, and your knowledge of the construction industry. You may also be asked questions about your ability to use technology, your problem-solving skills, and your ability to work in a team.

To help you prepare for your interview, we have compiled a list of sample questions and answers that you may be asked during your interview.

PCL Construction Interview Process

The interview process at PCL Construction is fairly long, and can take up to 2 weeks. However, it is generally not too difficult, and mostly consists of behavioral questions. Additionally, the company uses a personality test as part of their hiring process.

1. What is the biggest construction project you have worked on?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential new colleague’s experience. It can also help you understand what type of work they’re most comfortable with and how much responsibility they’ve had in the past. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the project in detail and explain why you enjoyed working on it.

Example: “The biggest construction project I have worked on was a complete renovation of an apartment building. The client wanted to update all of the appliances, flooring and fixtures throughout the entire building. We were able to do this while keeping the tenants living there during the renovations. This was a challenging project but one that I’m very proud of.”

2. Why do you want to work at PCL Construction?

This question is a great way to show your interest in the company and its values. It also allows you to talk about what attracted you to this role, which can be helpful if you have little experience with construction.

Example: “I want to work at PCL Construction because I am passionate about construction and design. I love working on projects that are innovative and creative, and I think PCL Construction has an excellent reputation for these types of projects. I would love to be part of a team that works together to create beautiful spaces that people enjoy using.”

3. How would you handle a difficult client?

PCL Construction is looking for a candidate who can handle difficult clients. This question helps the interviewer assess your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.

Example: “I would first try to understand why they are upset or frustrated, then I would apologize if necessary. Then, I would explain what we will do to fix the issue. If it’s something that cannot be fixed immediately, I would offer them an alternative solution. For example, if they want a specific color of paint but we don’t have any in stock, I would suggest another color that is similar.”

4. Give an example of a time where you had to deal with conflict, how did you solve it?

PCL Construction is looking for candidates who can work well with others and solve problems. This question helps the interviewer understand how you handle conflict in a professional setting.

Example: “In my last position, I had to manage several different projects at once. One day, one of my team members was late to a meeting because they were waiting on supplies. The project manager got upset and started yelling at them. I stepped in and explained that it wasn’t their fault and that we should focus on getting the job done as quickly as possible. After that, I met with the project manager privately and discussed ways to improve communication.”

5. Describe your experience working with digital technologies in construction.

PCL Construction is a leader in the construction industry when it comes to using digital technologies. The company has been implementing advanced technology into its projects for more than 20 years, and this experience can be valuable if you’re interviewing with PCL Construction. When answering this question, make sure to highlight your relevant skills and experiences working with digital technologies.

Example: “I have worked with digital technologies since I started my career as a construction engineer. In my last position, I was responsible for overseeing the implementation of new technologies on all our projects. This included everything from 3D modeling software to robotic equipment that could perform tasks like painting or installing windows.”

6. Are you comfortable using computer programs such as AutoCAD?

PCL Construction uses computer programs such as AutoCAD to create construction plans and designs. The interviewer may ask you this question to determine if you have experience using these types of programs, which can be important for the job. In your answer, explain what software you are comfortable with and why.

Example: “I am very familiar with AutoCAD because I used it in my last position at a general contractor company. I find that AutoCAD is an excellent program for creating construction plans and designs. It’s easy to use and has many features that make it useful for designing buildings and other structures.”

7. Do you think understanding the business side of construction is important for field engineers and coordinators?

PCL Construction is a construction company that offers services in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors. The interviewer wants to know if you have experience working with clients and other stakeholders to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.

Example: “I think it’s important for field engineers and coordinators to understand the business side of construction because we need to be able to communicate effectively with our clients about project timelines and budgets. I’ve worked with many different types of clients throughout my career, so I’m comfortable speaking with them about any concerns they may have.”

8. What are some things you look for when evaluating a sub-contractor’s bid?

PCL Construction is a large company that works with many subcontractors. The interviewer wants to know how you evaluate bids and ensure the quality of work from their subcontractors.

Example: “I look at several factors when evaluating a bid, including the sub-contractor’s experience in the industry, references and certifications. I also want to see if they have any specialties or unique services they offer. For example, some companies may specialize in modular construction while others focus on renovation. I like to hire subcontractors who can provide multiple services so we can get more done within our budget.”

9. Tell me about a time that you were given a tight deadline, how did you manage it?

PCL Construction is a company that often has tight deadlines. The interviewer wants to know how you will manage the pressure of working under these conditions and still deliver quality work.

Example: “I have worked on several projects where I was given a very short deadline, sometimes as little as two weeks. In these situations, I make sure my team understands the importance of meeting the deadline. We then prioritize our tasks so we can complete them in order of urgency. This helps us stay focused and get the job done quickly.”

10. Describe your experience managing a team of people.

PCL Construction is a large company that requires employees to work with others. Your interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your leadership skills and how you’ve managed teams in the past. To answer, think of a time when you were responsible for managing a team or group of people. Explain what steps you took to ensure everyone was on the same page and working toward the same goals.

Example: “In my last role as an estimator, I had to manage a team of five other estimators. We all worked together to create estimates for clients based on their needs. In order to make sure we were all on the same page, I scheduled weekly meetings where we discussed our current projects and any questions we had. This helped us collaborate effectively and meet client expectations.”

11. Are you willing to travel?

PCL Construction is a national construction company that offers opportunities for advancement. If you are interviewing for an entry-level position, it’s likely you will be required to travel within your state or region. PCL Construction wants employees who are willing to work hard and travel as needed.

Example: “Yes, I am willing to travel. In fact, I enjoy traveling because it gives me the opportunity to see new places and meet new people. I’m also excited about the chance to learn more about different regions of the country.”

12. Are you familiar with OSHA regulations?

PCL Construction is a safety-focused company, and the interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience working in a regulated industry. If you haven’t worked for a construction company before, it’s okay to say so, but you can still talk about your commitment to workplace safety.

Example: “I’ve never worked for a construction company before, but I am familiar with OSHA regulations as my previous employer was heavily involved in manufacturing. We had regular training sessions on how to stay safe at work, and I always made sure that I followed all of the rules and regulations.”

13. Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?

This question is a great way to learn more about the applicant’s career goals and how they plan to achieve them. It also helps you determine if this job will be a good fit for their future plans. When answering, try to show that you have a clear idea of what your career path looks like in the next few years.

Example: “I see myself working as an experienced construction manager at PCL Construction in five years. I hope to continue learning new skills and gaining valuable experience so that I can advance my career here.”

14. Have you ever used BIM or other collaborative software systems?

PCL Construction uses BIM (Building Information Modeling) software to streamline the construction process. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience with similar systems and how you might contribute to their company’s processes. If you have used a collaborative system in the past, explain what it was like and why you found it useful.

Example: “I’ve worked on several projects where we used BIM software to create 3D models of our work sites. This allowed us to collaborate with other team members remotely and share information quickly. I find that using these types of systems makes it easier for me to understand complex projects and communicate effectively with my coworkers.”

15. Do you have any experience estimating costs for materials, equipment and labor?

PCL Construction requires its estimators to have a thorough understanding of construction costs and how they relate to the company’s budget. Your interviewer may ask this question to assess your experience with estimating costs, as well as your ability to work within a budget. In your answer, try to explain that you understand the importance of working within a budget and can estimate costs accurately.

Example: “I’ve worked as an estimator for three years now, so I’m quite experienced at estimating costs for materials, equipment and labor. I know that it’s important to be accurate when estimating costs because inaccurate estimates could lead to overspending on projects. When I estimate costs, I always consider the cost of each material, the hourly rate for each type of labor and any additional expenses like transportation or equipment rental.”

16. What does quality mean to you?

PCL Construction is a quality-focused company, so it’s important to understand what the company means by quality. When you answer this question, make sure that you define quality and explain how you would apply your definition of quality in your work at PCL Construction.

Example: “Quality to me means meeting or exceeding customer expectations. I believe that if we can exceed our customers’ expectations, then we will have satisfied clients who are willing to refer us to others. To achieve quality, I always strive to be on time, within budget and with high-quality materials.”

17. Do you take initiative and follow through on projects without being told what to do?

PCL Construction wants to know that you are a self-starter who can take on projects and complete them without needing constant supervision. This is especially important if you will be working in an environment where there may not always be someone available to answer questions or provide guidance.

Example: “I am definitely a person who likes to take initiative, but I also understand the importance of asking for help when needed. In my last position, I was tasked with creating a new marketing campaign for our company’s website. I started by researching what other companies were doing and how they were using digital media to market their products. After gathering this information, I presented my ideas to my supervisor, who provided feedback and helped me develop a final plan.”

18. Which area of construction management interests you most?

PCL Construction is a construction management company that offers services in many areas of the industry. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your interests and determine if you would be a good fit for their organization. To answer this question, think about which aspects of construction management you enjoy most. Consider mentioning skills or experiences that align with the job description.

Example: “I have always been interested in modular construction because it seems like such an interesting way to build homes. I also really enjoy working on renovation projects because they allow me to use my organizational skills and creativity to solve problems. In my last position, I worked as a project manager overseeing renovations at several apartment complexes. It was challenging but rewarding work.”

19. What kind of goals do you set for yourself?

PCL Construction wants to know that you have a strong work ethic and are willing to go above and beyond what is expected of you. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention any goals you’ve set in the past and how they helped you grow as a professional.

Example: “I always strive to exceed my own expectations at work. I believe that setting challenging goals for myself helps me learn new skills and become more efficient at my job. For example, when I first started working as an electrician, I set a goal to complete all of my tasks within two hours each day. After a few weeks, I was able to cut down my time by 30%, which allowed me to take on additional projects.”

20. When was the last time you made a mistake? How did you handle it?

PCL Construction wants to know that you’re human and can make mistakes. They want to see how you handle your mistake, learn from it and move forward.

Example: “I once forgot to include a step in the blueprints for a home renovation project. I noticed this when we were already building the house. I immediately called my team together and explained what happened. We all agreed that we would tear down the wall where the missing staircase was supposed to be and rebuild it. It took us an extra day of work, but we fixed the problem.”