20 Spirit AeroSystems Interview Questions and Answers

Spirit AeroSystems is always looking for the best and brightest to join their team. If you’re lucky enough to land an interview with this top-tier company, you’ll want to be prepared to answer some specific questions about your experience and qualifications.

In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of some of the most common Spirit AeroSystems interview questions, so you can go into your interview with confidence.

Spirit AeroSystems Interview Process

The interview process at Spirit AeroSystems is generally pretty straightforward and concise. Most applicants will have a phone interview first, followed by an in-person interview if they are deemed a good fit for the position. The in-person interviews are usually conducted by a panel of 3-4 people, and typically last around 45 minutes. Questions asked during the interviews are mostly behavioral or situational in nature. Overall, the interview process is relatively relaxed and easygoing.

1. Why do you want to work at Spirit AeroSystems?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your interest in their company. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific aspects of Spirit AeroSystems that you admire or find interesting.

Example: “I have always been interested in aviation and would love to work at an organization like Spirit AeroSystems. I am impressed by the company’s commitment to safety and quality, as well as its reputation for being one of the best aerospace companies in the world. I think my skills and experience are a good fit for Spirit AeroSystems.”

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

This question is an opportunity to show your technical skills and how you would apply them in a manufacturing environment. Your answer should include examples of software you have used or developed that can be applied to the assembly line at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc.

Example: “I’ve worked with several different types of software for designing and engineering purposes. I find it important to understand the capabilities of each program so I know when to use it. For example, I once had to design a part for an aircraft wing using SolidWorks. This program was ideal because it allowed me to create 3D models of the parts and assemblies needed to build the wing. It also has features that allow engineers to simulate the performance of the final product.”

3. How many years of experience do you have as a Sheet Metal Mechanic?

This question is a great way to assess your experience level and determine if you’re qualified for the position. When answering this question, it’s important to be honest about how many years of experience you have as well as what skills you’ve developed over time.

Example: “I have five years of experience as a Sheet Metal Mechanic. I started out in my career working at an aircraft repair shop where I learned basic sheet metal work. After two years there, I moved on to a larger company that offered more opportunities for advancement. There, I was able to learn advanced techniques like riveting and welding.”

4. Do you have any previous experience working in the aerospace industry?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your background and determine if you have any relevant experience. If you do, share what you learned from that job and how it can help you succeed in this position.

Example: “I worked as an engineer at a small aerospace company for three years before moving here. While there, I helped design parts of commercial aircrafts like the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. This experience has given me valuable insight into the engineering process and taught me how to work with other engineers to solve problems.”

5. Tell me about a time when you had to solve a problem that was not straightforward. How did you approach the problem?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your problem-solving skills. Use examples from previous jobs to showcase how you used critical thinking and analytical skills to solve a challenging situation.

Example: “In my last position, I had to find ways to reduce costs while maintaining quality. One way we did this was by implementing lean manufacturing principles into our production process. This helped us cut down on waste and improve efficiency in the workplace. It also allowed us to increase customer satisfaction because we were able to deliver products faster.”

6. What is your experience with composite fabrication and installation?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the company’s products and services. If you have experience with composite fabrication, explain how you would apply that skill set to Spirit AeroSystems’ production process.

Example: “I’ve worked in a manufacturing facility for five years where I was responsible for fabricating parts from composite materials. In my last position, I fabricated wing components using carbon fiber and epoxy resins. My team also installed these components on aircraft wings. I am familiar with all aspects of this process and can use my expertise to contribute to Spirit AeroSystems.”

7. General Motors is a company that emphasizes innovation. What do you think is the most important thing to remember when trying to be innovative?

General Motors is a company that values innovation, and they want to know what you think about it. They are looking for someone who can help them innovate in their industry. In your answer, explain how you would approach being innovative at General Motors.

Example: “I believe the most important thing when trying to be innovative is to remember that there’s no one right way to do things. There are many ways to solve problems, so I always try to look at situations from different angles. This helps me come up with new ideas and solutions.”

8. Can you tell me about a time when you were working on a team project and there was conflict, how did you handle it?

When you answer this question, it’s important to show that you can work well with others and resolve conflict. When answering this question, try to give an example of a time when you worked on a team project and there was conflict, but also how you resolved the conflict and helped your team achieve its goals.

Example: “At my last job, I worked in a large department where we all had different roles. One day, one of my coworkers came up to me and asked if I could help them with their task because they were having trouble with it. I told them that I would be happy to help them, however, I explained that I needed to finish my own tasks first. They understood and went back to their desk while I finished my work.”

9. Describe your experience designing and testing mechanical parts.

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the mechanical design process and how you apply it in a manufacturing environment.

Example: “In my previous role, I was responsible for designing and testing mechanical parts that were used in aircraft engines. My team would start by researching the specifications of each part we needed to create, including weight, size and durability. Then, we would use computer-aided design software to create 3D models of the parts. After creating the model, we would test the parts using various methods, such as stress tests and endurance tests.”

10. Give an example of a time when you had to solve a problem that was not straightforward. How did you approach the problem?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide a specific example of how you approached the situation and what steps you took to solve it.

Example: “At my previous job, I had to help resolve a dispute between two employees who were arguing over whose idea was more important. The disagreement became so heated that they both threatened to quit if their ideas weren’t implemented. I decided to meet with each employee separately to hear their side of the story. After hearing both sides, I realized that there wasn’t one right answer. Instead, I suggested that we implement both ideas into our marketing campaign.”

11. How often do you like to be in contact with your team when working on a project?

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of how you interact with your team and whether you prefer to work independently or in collaboration. Your answer should reflect that you value teamwork and enjoy collaborating with others on projects.

Example: “I like to be in contact with my team members as often as possible, especially when working on a project. I find it helpful to check in with my team throughout the day so everyone knows what’s going on and we’re all on the same page. This helps me feel more connected to my team and ensures that everyone is getting the support they need.”

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

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer your knowledge of mechanical engineering and how you can apply it in a real-world setting. When answering this question, consider which areas of mechanical engineering interest you most and why.

Example: “I am interested in aerospace engineering because I love working with machines that fly. In my last role as a mechanical engineer, I worked on a team that designed parts for commercial aircraft. One of the projects we worked on was designing a new wing system for a private jet. It was exciting to work on such a large project and see our design come to life.”

13. At Spirit AeroSystems we value innovation. How do you plan on being innovative if given the opportunity to join our team?

This question is an opportunity to show your potential employer that you are a creative thinker who can contribute new ideas and processes to the company. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight how you plan on being innovative in your role at Spirit AeroSystems.

Example: “I believe innovation starts with asking questions. I would start by researching what our customers need and want from us. Then, I would work with my team to brainstorm solutions to these problems. I think this process of research, collaboration and problem-solving will help me be innovative as a member of Spirit AeroSystems.”

14. Provide an example of a software development project you have worked on.

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your technical skills and how you apply them in a work environment. When answering, consider describing the project’s goals and what steps you took to achieve them.

Example: “At my previous job, I worked on a software development team that was tasked with creating an app for customers to use while shopping online. The goal of the project was to create a user-friendly app that would allow customers to search for products by name or category and then add those items to their cart. We started by conducting research to find out what features our customers wanted most from the app. Then, we created wireframes and prototypes to test different designs.”

15. We want our assembly line workers to be able to work independently. Do you think you would be a good fit for that type of environment?

This question is an opportunity to show your ability to work independently and solve problems. You can use examples from previous jobs or school projects where you had to complete a task on your own.

Example: “I think I would be a good fit for that type of environment because I am used to working independently. In my last job, I was the only person in my department who worked overnight shifts. This meant I had to do all of my tasks without any help. I got used to it after a while, but I always made sure to communicate with my coworkers when I needed help.”

16. What would you say is your greatest strength and weakness?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s important to be honest. Employers want to know what your greatest strengths are so they can use you for those tasks, but they also want to know about any weaknesses so they can help you improve them.

Example: “My greatest strength would have to be my attention to detail. I am very thorough when performing work, which helps me ensure that all of the necessary steps were completed correctly. My weakness would be my ability to multitask. While I enjoy working on several projects at once, sometimes I get distracted by other things going on around me. This has caused me to make mistakes in the past.”

17. Describe your experience with designing and releasing software.

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience with a specific software program. Use examples from your past work experience that highlight your ability to use the software and complete projects on time.

Example: “In my last role, I worked as a web developer for an e-commerce company. My team was responsible for creating new websites and maintaining existing ones. We used several different types of software programs to create our websites, including HTML, CSS and JavaScript. In addition to designing websites, we also released updates and made changes to existing sites.”

18. Do you feel comfortable working with tight deadlines?

When working in a manufacturing environment, you may be required to work with tight deadlines. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle the pressure of meeting their expectations and ensure your ability to perform well under stress. In your answer, explain how you stay organized and manage your time effectively.

Example: “I feel comfortable working with tight deadlines because I am very organized and efficient at my job. Throughout my career, I have worked on several projects that had strict deadlines. I always made sure to plan ahead so I could meet all of my objectives while also staying within budget.”

19. Are you willing to travel between factories or offices?

If you’re interviewing for a position that requires travel, it’s important to let the interviewer know if you have any issues with this. If you do not have any issues with traveling, explain how you enjoy it and what your previous experience is with it.

Example: “I am willing to travel between factories or offices as needed. I find that traveling can be an exciting part of my job because I get to see new places and meet new people. In fact, I’ve traveled to several different states in the past for work.”

20. What kind of projects have you worked on previously?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential new colleague’s experience. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention the most challenging project you’ve worked on and how you overcame any challenges that came with it.

Example: “I have worked on many different projects throughout my career, but one of my favorites was when I had to create an entirely new product line for our company. We were having trouble finding enough parts to meet customer demand, so we decided to start making some of those parts ourselves. It took us several months to get everything up and running, but now we are able to produce all of the parts needed.”