Construction Manager interview questions and answers

18 good construction manager interview questions

1. Imagine that the project you are supervising is starting to fall behind schedule or exceed the project’s budget. What actions would you take?
2. What would you do if some of your workers were not using the necessary safety equipment? How would you handle it?
3. Picture a conflict between an in-house engineer and an independent subcontractor. How would you resolve it?
4. What would you do if a subcontractor was trying to change the terms of their contract in order to raise their compensation?
5. Imagine that a tradesperson or worker disregarded your instructions for their part of the project. How would you respond?
6. What factors would you consider before negotiating contracts or rates?
7. What are the first steps of planning a construction project?
8. How do you prioritize the necessary tasks of a project?
9. What licenses are needed to begin a construction project? How would you obtain them?
10. As a construction manager, which project management tools do you prefer and why?
11. [Suggested by real hiring managers] What is your experience working on [x type of project]?
12. [Suggested by real hiring managers] Have you ever been convicted of a crime?
13. [Suggested by real hiring managers] Have you ever handled multiple projects?
14. [Suggested by real hiring managers] Do you enjoy being out on the field on the job site?
15. [Suggested by real hiring managers] Have you handled administrative paperwork before?
16. [Suggested by real hiring managers] What types of people have you worked with before?
17. [Suggested by real hiring managers] Would you feel comfortable taking a drug test?
18. [Suggested by real hiring managers] If you don’t know how to do something, what would you do?

Here are 18 essential interview questions and sample answers to help identify the best candidates for this role.

1. Imagine that the project you are supervising is starting to fall behind schedule or exceed the project’s budget. What actions would you take?

This question assesses the candidate’s ability to manage time and resources effectively.

Sample answer:

“I would first conduct a thorough analysis to identify the root cause of the delays or budget overruns. Then, I would communicate with the team and stakeholders to discuss possible solutions and implement corrective actions immediately.”

2. What would you do if some of your workers were not using the necessary safety equipment? How would you handle it?

This question evaluates the candidate’s commitment to workplace safety.

Sample answer:

“I would immediately halt work and address the issue with the workers involved. Safety is non-negotiable, and I would make sure everyone understands the importance of using the proper safety equipment.”

3. Picture a conflict between an in-house engineer and an independent subcontractor. How would you resolve it?

This question gauges the candidate’s conflict-resolution skills.

Sample answer:

“I would arrange a meeting with both parties to discuss the issue openly. I would listen to both sides and then make a decision based on the facts and what’s best for the project.”

4. What would you do if a subcontractor was trying to change the terms of their contract in order to raise their compensation?

This question tests the candidate’s negotiation skills and ethical stance.

Sample answer:

“I would review the contract and discuss the request with the subcontractor. If the request is unreasonable or against the terms, I would firmly but politely decline and explain why.”

5. Imagine that a tradesperson or worker disregarded your instructions for their part of the project. How would you respond?

This question assesses the candidate’s leadership and management skills.

Sample answer:

“I would address the issue directly with the individual, seeking to understand why they disregarded the instructions. Depending on the severity, corrective actions could range from retraining to disciplinary measures.”

6. What factors would you consider before negotiating contracts or rates?

This question evaluates the candidate’s understanding of contract negotiations.

Sample answer:

“I would consider the scope of work, market rates, the contractor’s experience, and the project budget. I would also consult with legal and procurement departments to ensure compliance with company policies.”

7. What are the first steps of planning a construction project?

This question tests the candidate’s understanding of project planning.

Sample answer:

“The first steps would include conducting a feasibility study, defining the scope, setting objectives, and creating a preliminary budget and timeline.”

8. How do you prioritize the necessary tasks of a project?

This question assesses the candidate’s project management skills.

Sample answer:

“I prioritize tasks based on their impact on the project’s critical path, deadlines, and dependencies. I use project management software to keep track of these priorities.”

9. What licenses are needed to begin a construction project? How would you obtain them?

This question evaluates the candidate’s knowledge of legal requirements.

Sample answer:

“Required licenses may include building permits, environmental clearances, and occupational safety certifications. I would work closely with local authorities and legal advisors to obtain these.”

10. As a construction manager, which project management tools do you prefer and why?

This question gauges the candidate’s familiarity with project management tools.

Sample answer:

“I prefer using tools like MS Project or Asana for task management and scheduling. These tools offer excellent features for tracking progress and collaboration.”

11. What is your experience working on [x type of project]?

This question aims to assess the candidate’s specific experience and expertise related to a particular type of construction project.

Sample answer:

“I have significant experience working on [x type of project]. In my previous roles, I’ve successfully managed and overseen the completion of [brief description of relevant projects], demonstrating my proficiency in coordinating and executing tasks specific to this type of construction project.”

12. Have you ever been convicted of a crime?

This question addresses the candidate’s legal history and is often asked to ensure compliance with job requirements and safety regulations.

Sample answer:

“No, I have never been convicted of a crime. I understand the importance of maintaining a clean legal record in the construction industry, especially considering the responsibilities associated with safety and security on job sites.”

13. Have you ever handled multiple projects?

This question explores the candidate’s experience and ability to manage multiple construction projects concurrently.

Sample answer:

“Yes, I have successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously in previous roles. I am adept at coordinating resources, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring efficient project delivery, even when overseeing multiple construction projects concurrently.”

14. Do you enjoy being out on the field on the job site?

This question assesses the candidate’s preference for hands-on fieldwork, which is a critical aspect of construction management.

Sample answer:

“Absolutely, I thrive in the field and find great satisfaction in being on the job site. Being actively involved in overseeing construction activities, addressing on-site challenges, and ensuring the smooth execution of projects aligns with my passion for construction management.”

15. Have you handled administrative paperwork before?

This question addresses the candidate’s familiarity with the administrative aspects of construction management, such as permits, contracts, and project documentation.

Sample answer:

“Yes, I am well-versed in handling administrative paperwork in construction management. This includes managing permits, contracts, project documentation, and other administrative tasks to ensure compliance with regulations and the smooth progression of construction projects.”

16. What types of people have you worked with before?

This question explores the candidate’s ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders in the construction industry.

Sample answer:

“I have worked with a diverse range of people in the construction industry, including architects, engineers, subcontractors, laborers, and clients. Collaboration and effective communication with this varied set of stakeholders have been crucial in achieving successful project outcomes.”

17. Would you feel comfortable taking a drug test?

This question is often asked to assess the candidate’s willingness to comply with safety and regulatory requirements, as drug testing is common in the construction industry.

Sample answer:

“Absolutely, I am fully comfortable taking a drug test. I understand and appreciate the importance of maintaining a drug-free workplace, particularly in the construction industry where safety is paramount.”

18. If you don’t know how to do something, what would you do?

This question evaluates the candidate’s problem-solving and resourcefulness when faced with unfamiliar tasks or challenges.

Sample answer:

“When encountering a task or situation I am unfamiliar with, I proactively seek information, consult relevant experts, and leverage available resources. I believe in continuous learning and am not hesitant to ask for guidance to ensure that I can effectively address any challenges that may arise in the construction management role.”

What Does a Good Construction Manager Candidate Look Like?

A strong candidate for a construction manager position will have a solid educational background in civil engineering or architecture, along with extensive industry experience. They should possess excellent leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills. Their ability to manage time and resources effectively is crucial for the successful completion of projects.