Why this matters:
Manufacturing engineers focus their work on the research, design, layout, and build of the manufacturing process, while also designing and developing machine parts and tools to make a wide range of products. Successful candidates should be able to think critically and strategically about what process and methods work best for their product goals, price point, consumer demand, and resources available to them.
What to listen for:
- Examples of common methods used to evaluate manufacturing processes
- Analytical and critical thinking skills
- Ability to relate manufacturing methods and processes to the position
Why this matters:
A BOM is a bill of materials frequently used by manufacturing engineers when manufacturing a new product. Aside from general knowledge of tool design and fabrication methods, this question will reveal if your candidate is familiar with industry terms and standards, and if they may require additional training or certifications.
What to listen for:
- Definition and explanation of a BOM
- How to use a BOM
- General knowledge of the overall manufacturing process/role
Why this matters:
A manufacturing process has three phases: raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished products, but most of the total cost is allocated to the work-in-progress phase. Your candidate should demonstrate their ability to calculate the costs involved in a manufacturing process, and explain the concepts involved. This question tests a candidate’s engineering skills and ability to understand the cost of a manufacturing process.
What to listen for:
- Explanation of manufacturing process and its three phases
- How the candidate uses the processes in their work
- Ability to calculate production costs
Why this matters:
Manufacturing engineers work on a variety of projects, and even the most skilled candidates will experience failure from time to time. Successful candidates should be able to discuss their missteps, and how they handled mistakes. They should draw from previous experiences and discuss a specific failure that occurred earlier in their career, and reflect on the lessons they learned and the perspective they gained.
What to listen for:
- Real-life example of failures and what the candidate learned from the situation
- Honesty and self-awareness
- Humility, and an understanding of their professional limitations
Why this matters:
Manufacturing engineers are tasked with improving various processes. This question is designed to understand your candidate’s experience with process changes, and how creative they are when it comes to making improvements. It also gives them an opportunity to communicate their technical skills and professional experience.
What to listen for:
- Knowledge of manufacturing process design
- Ability to creatively solve problems and make improvements
- Understanding of their professional experience and technical ability
Why this matters:
Manufacturing can be a dangerous profession, so it is up to manufacturing engineers to protect themselves and other team members from harm. The candidate should be able to identify hazards, reduce risks, and enforce safety measures, such as using light curtains or equipment covers. Safety measures can also include halting production or discussing a hazardous situation with a supervisor to correct a problem.
What to listen for:
- Understanding of worker safety measures
- Professionalism and assertiveness
- Knowledge of industry and company safety best practices
Why this matters:
Manufacturing engineers work to improve systems with continuous updates to technology, software, and processes. This question assesses the candidate’s interest to continuously learn new skills or technological advances throughout their career. If they aren’t aware of industry changes, they may be slow to adapt to new techniques and methodologies.
What to listen for:
- Awareness of the importance of staying informed of industry trends and advancements
- Examples of reading material, including trade journals, blogs, and newsletters
- Knowledge of current industry trends or technological advancements
Why this matters:
Manufacturing engineers work as part of a team of engineers, technicians, and production workers to make systems safer, more efficient, and less costly. Successful candidates should demonstrate how they would effectively communicate with their team, and show a willingness to help their team members and the project succeed.
What to listen for:
- Ability to communicate constructively with team members
- Desire to see team members and projects succeed
- Empathy toward other team members
Why this matters:
Production environments are often demanding and fast-paced, and manufacturing engineers may encounter conflicts or resistance to changes they recommend. This question will help you assess the candidate’s resiliency and ability to stay on track toward their goals, despite any difficulties that may come with a stressful work environment.
What to listen for:
- Willingness to seek help
- Perseverance and commitment during challenging times
- Stress management skills, including setting boundaries for a healthy work-life balance
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