Can you describe a project where your analytical and problem-solving skills played a crucial role?

Construction Surveyor Interview Questions

Sample answer to the question

Yeah, sure. Well, the project that comes to mind was when I was working on a new residential development. Part of the job was to stake out the boundaries for the new structures. This involved calculating precise distances and angles and then placing markers at the specific locations. On one occasion, my measurements seemed off compared to the blueprint, so I had to use my problem-solving skills to figure out what was going wrong. It turns out there was an error in the original blueprint. So, I contacted the architect, who updated the plans and everything was solved.

A more solid answer

Absolutely, I remember I was part of a large residential development project a couple of years ago. In the initial phase, it was my task to stake out the exact boundaries for the new buildings. The entire construction relied on these measurements, so I needed to apply my mathematical skills and attention to detail to ensure complete precision. During the process, I noticed that some of the stake positions according to the blueprints didn't match with the on-ground results I got after using the GPS survey equipment. Analyzing the discrepancies, I realized that the error might be with the original blueprint. To confirm this, I rechecked my measurements and calculations, using trigonometry to verify angles and distances. On confirming, I got in touch with the architect and explained my findings. To everyone’s relief, the architect found the mistake and corrected the blueprint. This was an important instance where my analytical and problem-solving skills played an integral part in the project.

Why this is a more solid answer:

This answer provides a clearer picture of the candidate's analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving abilities, along with their expertise in using technology. It provides details of the discrepancy they found, their process to verify it, and finally, their interpersonal skills while communicating the issue to the architect. However, the candidate can provide more data and details about how they confirmed their measurements, managed the potential delay in the project due to this discrepancy, and the kind of follow-up actions they took to prevent such issues in the future.

An exceptional answer

Certainly! To exemplify, I'd like to mention a complex residential development project I was a part of a few years ago. It involved constructing multiple structures on a hilly terrain, amplifying the challenge. My responsibility was to accurately stake out the boundaries for these buildings - a task demanding precise mathematical calculations, strict attention to detail and well, a good understanding of the land. As I commenced the process using my GPS survey equipment and total stations, I found definite discrepancies between the blueprint positions and my on-ground findings. Rather than taking it at face value, I employed my analytical and problem-solving skills to probe the issue. I double-checked my measurements, recalculating angles and distances using trigonometry and geometry principles. Simultaneously, I used my surveying software to cross-verify the calculations for any possible human error. Once I was completely secure about the mismatch, I communicated my concerns and findings to the project architect. He double-checked the blueprints and indeed, a drafting error was identified. Furthermore, to address the potential delay due to this issue, I worked overtime for two days to remap and re-stake the correct boundaries. Post this incident, I started cross-checking the blueprints and measurements even before staking, which helped prevent potential errors and delays in the future. So, this incident clearly illuminated the power of strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

This answer goes beyond just explaining the problem and how it was solved. It delves into the factors that led to the issue in the first place, the specific investigative and calculation methods the candidate used to address it, and how they used their skills in survey software and equipment. It further highlights their perseverance, proactive approach, and dedication towards their job. Their measures to prevent similar issues and their reference to working overtime to meet deadlines make the candidate's response exceptional.

How to prepare for this question

Prioritize describing a project task that best exemplifies the core skills required for the role.
Be detailed about your problem-solving process; don’t just state that you found a mistake but explain how you identified it.
Explain how you leveraged your mathematical knowledge and technology expertise.
Highlight your communication skills, especially how you handled any issues with other stakeholders.
Showcase how you managed to adhere to project deadlines in challenging situations.
Include your learnings from the project and how you've applied them to shape your future work approach.

What interviewers are evaluating

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Excellent mathematical skills
Precise attention to detail
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Proficient in the use of technology including GPS and survey software