Question Overview: Industrial engineers are constantly looking for ways to improve the products and services they use. They should be able to tell you about an item they use every day that needs a redesign. They should also be able to tell you how they would redesign it to better suit their needs.

Sample Answer: I use a laptop computer every day. I'd like to see a laptop with a larger screen and more memory. I'd also like to see a laptop that's more durable and has better battery life.

• • What the interviewer is looking for:
  • - Ideas for redesigning a product or service
  • - Knowledge of current products and services
  • - Ability to think critically about how to improve things

Question Overview: Industrial engineers are responsible for analyzing your company's production work stations. They should be able to tell you how they would evaluate and improve these stations.

Sample Answer: I would first evaluate the work station to determine if it's operating at peak efficiency. I would then look at the people who use the work station and how they operate it. I would make suggestions for improving the work station based on my findings.

• • What the interviewer is looking for:
  • - Methods for analyzing the work station
  • - Plans for improving the work station
  • - Knowledge of best practices in the industry

Question Overview: As an industrial engineer, you'll need to manage a variety of projects. You'll want to find someone who has experience managing projects and can tell you about their methods for success.

Sample Answer: I've managed several projects in my career. I've learned how to manage a project from start to finish, and I've learned how to manage a team as well. I'm familiar with the tools and techniques that help me manage a project.

• • What the interviewer is looking for:
  • - Specific examples of projects
  • - Methods for managing projects
  • - Plans for future projects

Question Overview: This is a common interview question that gives you a chance to talk about your professional strengths and weaknesses. You should be able to discuss your strengths in relation to the job you're applying for. For example, if you're applying for an industrial engineering position, you should discuss your strengths in relation to industrial engineering.

Sample Answer: I'm a very organized person, and I have excellent time management skills. I'm also very detail-oriented, which helps me stay on task. I'm always looking for ways to improve my work, and I'm always open to new ideas.

• • What the interviewer is looking for:
  • - Knowledge of your own strengths and weaknesses
  • - Ability to explain how they apply to the job
  • - Evidence of a positive attitude

Question Overview: This is a common interview question that's designed to see how you deal with a negative situation. You should be honest in your answer and show that you're aware of your weakness and working to improve it.

Sample Answer: I'm a perfectionist, and I tend to get frustrated when I don't meet my own high standards. I've been working on this by taking a step back and looking at the big picture.

• • What the interviewer is looking for:
  • - Acknowledgement of the weakness
  • - Evidence of working on the weakness
  • - Evidence of improvement

Question Overview: You want to hire an industrial engineer who's excited about working with your company. A good candidate should be able to tell you what they like about your company and what they're looking forward to in their new position.

Sample Answer: I've been looking at your company for some time. I like the way you do business and I'm excited about the opportunity to work with you.

• • What the interviewer is looking for:
  • - Specific reasons for wanting to work with your company
  • - Evidence of research into the company
  • - Knowledge of the company's products and services