Can you describe your work experience as a mechanic?

A:

Mechanics often need work experience as an apprentice, volunteer, or

employee to succeed in their role. This question helps you learn more
about a candidate's background. Pay attention to the type of
mechanical system they repaired in previous positions. What to look
for in an answer:

 Quantifiable experience as a mechanic

 Lessons learned from mechanic work experience

 A goal statement on contributions they aim to achieve

Example:
"I completed my four-year mechanic apprenticeship at Aries
Vocational Institute, where I learned how to fix vehicles and heavy-
duty trucks. Sube Transport Services then hired me as a mechanic.
While employed there, I fixed over 200 vehicles and maintained
approximately 300 automobiles. As a mechanic in your workshop, I
aim to apply my experience to maintaining and fixing vehicles."
Q:

What skills do you think a mechanic needs?

A:

Mechanics use advanced technical and mechanical skills to inspect,

troubleshoot, and fix problems. The goal of this question is to find out
whether a candidate understands the position. What to look for in an
answer:
  Problem-solving, customer service, and technical skills
 Interest in developing skills

 Value a candidate would bring to your establishment

Example:
"I think mechanics need excellent problem-solving skills to identify
technical issues quickly. Project management, customer service, and
organizational skills are useful for completing projects and meeting
client expectations. I'm confident I have the required soft and hard
skills to succeed at this mechanic position."
Q:

Describe the most challenging repair task you handled.

A:

This question enables you to assess a mechanic's problem-solving

skills and experience. It also reveals what a candidate considers a
challenge. What to look for in an answer:

 Experience handling challenging repair work

 Positive attitude to work

 Mechanical expertise
Example:
"At my last role, I worked on a twinjet. The aircraft's turbine didn't
power the rotating air compressor, and it needed repairs. Having
experienced a similar technical issue, I recommended a cost-saving
repair for the twinjet's turbine and had it fixed before the deadline. This
project helped me expand my knowledge of aircraft systems."
Q:
 How would you explain the repair work you carried out on a mechanical system
to a non-technical customer?

A:

By asking this question, you can evaluate a candidate's ability to

communicate effectively. What to look for in an answer:

 Customer service skills

 Strategies for communicating non-technical terms using

layperson words
 Example to support their experience explaining
Example:
"I think it's important to keep customers informed about their vehicle's
problems and my repair plans. I use analogies and layperson words to
communicate technical concepts and terms. For example, I once
described a nine-turn motor as a brick with nine turns of wire. This
analogy helps non-technical customers understand concepts easily."
Q:

How do you prioritize repair tasks and customers on a busy workday?

A:

Mechanics typically handle several repair and maintenance tasks

daily. This question aims to find out whether a client can work in a
fast-paced environment. What to look for in an answer:

 Excellent time management and organizational skills

 Good customer service skills
 Consistent strategy for prioritizing clients
 Example:
"During busy days or peak business periods, I ensure I attend to
customers in the order they arrive. If another mechanic was available,
I'd redirect a customer who couldn't wait for me to troubleshoot or fix
their vehicle to them. Having a consistent strategy for attending to
customers and communicating it helps them feel valued."
Q:

What would you do if a customer was dissatisfied with your services?

A:

Asking this question helps you understand how a candidate deals with
negative feedback from customers. An excellent candidate should
focus on regaining the customer's trust. What to look for in an answer:

 Politeness and professionalism

 Excellent customer service skills

 Emotional intelligence
Example:
"If a customer was dissatisfied with my services, I'd politely try to find
out what aspect they would like me to work on. I'd apologize once I
notice the mistake and reassure the customer that I'd work to resolve
it. I'd also think of an action plan to prevent such errors from occurring.
I'd make sure I maintain my voice level and composure when
communicating with a dissatisfied customer."
Q:

Describe your ability to work with other technical employees.

A:
 Depending on your establishment, a mechanic may need to work with
technical professionals and other mechanics. The purpose of this
question is to find out whether a candidate is comfortable working as
part of a team. What to look for in an answer:

 Ability to work independently or in a team

 Enthusiasm for working as part of a team

 Example to show their teamwork experience

Example:
"My last jobs required me to work with other mechanics. Our manager
often assigned us tasks based on our strengths, and I enjoyed
working with others. This approach also helped me expand my
mechanical expertise and learn other approaches for troubleshooting
and fixing technical issues. I'd love to join your team and contribute to
your goals."
Q:

What safety precautions do you take as a mechanic?

A:

Regardless of their industry, mechanics may be exposed to various

work hazards. This question helps you understand what safety
measures a candidate would take at your establishment. What to look
for in an answer:

 Knowledge of health and safety issues for mechanics

 Understanding of preventive measures for mechanics

 Ability to follow instructions

Example:
 "My job exposes me to chemicals, gasoline exhausts, hot surfaces,
and explosive items. I make sure I work safely with chemicals and use
appropriate protective equipment for each task. I also ensure my work
area is clutter-free and use lock-out and lag-out procedures. I refer to
the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS)
whenever I'm unsure of the safety precautions to take."
Q:

Imagine another mechanic disagreed with you on how to approach a vehicle

repair. What would you do?

A:

This question also evaluates a candidate's ability to work with others

in repairing a customer's mechanical system. What to look for in an
answer:

 Professionalism and respect for colleagues

 Teamwork skills

 Ability to listen actively and consider a colleague's expertise

Example:
"I once worked on an assignment where a vehicle's brake pads were
malfunctioning. Since I had experience handling a similar situation, I
decided to replace the brake pads with a new set. However, one of my
colleagues disagreed and recommended a complete change of the
braking system. I appreciated them for their input and went to my
supervisor for their thoughts. Eventually, I replaced the brake pads
since the customer couldn't afford to completely change their vehicle's
brake system."
Q:
 What's your greatest strength as a mechanic?

A:

By asking this question, you can determine what qualities make a

mechanic stand out. It also reveals whether a candidate's strength
aligns with the position. What to look for in an answer:

 Character-based or skill-based strength

 Honesty

 Preparedness for the interview

Example:
"My ability to troubleshoot technical issues quickly is my greatest
strength. I enjoy taking on challenges and find identifying issues
exciting. At one of my previous positions, my manager put me in
charge of troubleshooting automobile problems and documenting my
findings for other technical professionals to use. I loved this role
because it exposed me to various issues that could affect a vehicle."
Q:

What mechanic tools and software do you know how to use?

A:

This question tells you more about a candidate's experience and

mechanical expertise. Good mechanics know how to use basic tools
like wrenches, pliers, hammers, and pry bars. What to look for in an
answer:

 Knowledge of how to use basic mechanic tools and software

 Experience using mechanic tools
  Attitude to learning about more tools of software for mechanics
Example:
"I'm comfortable using hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, utility
knives, and other basic tools. I'm also skilled at using Integrated
Diagnostic Software when troubleshooting, reprogramming, or
repairing vehicles. I also find Autodesk's Inventory software useful."
Q:

How do you troubleshoot a faulty mechanical system?

A:

By asking this question, you can discover what troubleshooting

technique a mechanic uses to identify technical issues. What to look
for in an answer:

 Excellent critical-thinking and problem-solving skills

 Knowledge of how to troubleshoot mechanical systems

accurately
 Ability to remain calm when troubleshooting mechanical

systems
Example:
"I start by observing the mechanical system closely to identify its
technical problem. Then, I list the possible causes and determine the
most probable. Next, I test my theory. If it is correct, I establish a plan
of action to resolve the problem. Otherwise, I test other theories. I
always make sure I'm calm when troubleshooting systems."
Q:

What experience do you have supervising other employees?

A:

This question aims to find out whether a candidate can supervise

apprentices and other technical professionals in your establishment.
What to look for in an answer:

 Experience as a supervisor or in other leadership roles

 Leadership skills

 Enthusiasm for the opportunity to supervise others

Example:
"I'm good at supervising apprentices and other workers. Shortly after
completing my apprenticeship, I worked at a workshop where I
inspected tasks technologists completed. I also have experience
maintaining logs of machine repair or maintenance and ensuring tools
are in good working condition. My ability to work well with others
helped me succeed in this role."
Q:

How do you ensure mechanical systems are in good working condition before
handing them over to customers?

A:

After troubleshooting and repairing mechanical systems, mechanics

must ensure they are in good condition. This question assesses a
candidate's attentiveness and commitment to ensuring mechanical
systems work properly. What to look for in an answer:

 Work experience as a mechanic

 Thoroughness and close attention to detail
 Attitude to work
 Example:
"I test run every mechanical system I work on before handing them
over. In my previous position at an auto repair garage, I inspected the
components I worked on and checked other parts. I drove the vehicles
I repaired within the environment, after asking permission from my
manager. I also confirmed that they were safe to use, after ticking
boxes in my safety checklist."
Q:

Why are you interested in this mechanic position?

A:

This question helps you understand why a mechanic wants to work

with you. Use a candidate's answer to determine whether they
researched your establishment before the interview. What to look for
in an answer:

Enthusiasm for the mechanic position

 Career goals that align with yours

 Attitude to work and personal development

Example:
"I'd love to work here because I believe your auto repair garage offers
exciting challenges for mechanics. As a popular establishment, many
vehicle owners come here to resolve their technical issues. I'd love to
advance my career by working in such a fast-paced environment. My
excellent mechanical and technical skill set makes me a good fit for
this position, and I'm excited about working with other experienced
mechanics. I understand you also need someone to conduct
preventive maintenance of mechanical systems, which is an aspect
I'm particularly skilled at."

General Questions
1. Why did you get into the trade?

This is an interesting question that can give you a lot of insight about their motivations. A lot of time I will
hear something along the lines of ‘I grew up tearing things apart and fixing them’ or ‘my dad was a mechanic
and I loved working in the shop with him’ those are usually the best techs. Sometimes you will get ‘seemed
like a good way to make a lot of money’ this isn’t a bad answer but indicates you might have someone who is
money hungry.

2. Why are you available or looking at new opportunities?

Did they just get fired, do they hate their boss, do they need more money, a different shift, closer to home etc.
Their motivations for making a move are important and can be a good indication if they will be a long term fit
with you.

3. What do you know about our company?

Did they do some research on you prior to interviewing? If so that is a good sign that they are serious. If not it
is an indication that they just need a job and may not care who it is with.

4. Why do you want to work with us?

This gives you a good idea of not only their motivations but what your selling features are to other mechanics
for future interviews.

5. What in your previous experience and/or training makes you feel you would be a good fit for us?
6. What are your wage expectations?
7. What shifts are you available for and what is your preferred shift?
Only applicable if you offer multiple shifts
8. If selected, when are you available to start?
If they are currently working you want them to say 2 weeks, if they say immediately that likely means they are
not going to give their company notice which is a red flag. It may also just mean they know their company has
a policy of not accepting notice and they could be available immediately.

9. Why did you leave your previous employers?

If they have routinely been terminated that is a red flag, if the same issue keeps coming up at multiple places
that could also be a cause for concern.

10. Can you supply us with references?

Ask them to e-mail them to you, this will give you an example of their written communication and ability to
follow direction. You can also see how serious they are about the job based on how quickly they get the
references to you.

11. Is there anything that was not covered on your resume or in this interview that you feel we need to
know?

Behavioral/Situational Questions
1. Tell me about a situation where you sacrificed safety for speed.
Don’t ask, have you ever sacrificed safety for speed, they will almost always say no, assume they have and see
what they say.

2. Tell me about your favourite supervisor or manager that you have worked for, what made them
great?
This will give you a good idea of what management style they respond best to, does this match up with your
shops supervisor?

3. Tell me about a disagreement between you and another mechanic on the shop floor, how was it
resolved?
4. If you had the choice would you rather work a day on the floor and get paid time and a half or spend
a day receiving technical training getting paid regular wages?
How important is training to them, if it is very important this is likely someone who has a real passion for the
trade. If they take the money that isn’t terrible but you may have someone who will leave your company down
the road for more money elsewhere.

5. Would you rather get paid more to work on something you don’t like i.e. Waste Trucks or get paid
less but work on something you love i.e. Motorcycles or Classic Cars?
6. Tell me about a time that you took ownership of a situation or took the lead on the floor without being
asked to.
7. How do you feel about borrowing tools or lending tools to other technicians?
This can be an area that causes a lot of issues in a shop. Mechanics that borrow tools too often are an
annoyance but those that refuse to let people borrow tools when needed are also an issue. Ideally you want an
answer along the lines of ‘if I have to borrow a tool more than once I buy one.’
Technical Questions
If possible have a technical person with you for the interview, ideally a Service Manager, Supervisor or lead
tech, they can ask probing questions and get a good understanding if the person knows that they are talking
about or not.

1. What types/brands/models of equipment/trucks/cars do you have experience working on?

2. What types of repairs and maintenance do you have experience with? What type of repair do you
specialize on?
3. What are your favorite jobs to do?
4. What are your least favorite jobs to do?
5. What diagnostic tools do you have experience using?
6. In your most recent position, what kinds of jobs did you get a lot of?
This speaks to the confidence level that their manager had in their technical ability. If they were responsible for
preventative maintenance they were not seen as a highly-skilled tech, if they were doing engine jobs they were
probably seen as one of the better mechanics in the shop.

7. Do you have experience working in the field? If so do you like working in the field?
Typically fieldwork is reserved for trustworthy techs that can solve their own problems and work
independently. If they have field experience it is usually a good sign.

8. What experience do you have with in-depth engine and transmission repairs?
9. Do you have a complete tool set?
Ideally, they will be able to tell you a rough idea of what they have or value of their tools. A mechanic can not
do their job without tools and you shouldn’t hire anyone unless they have a bare minimum of $10,000 in tools.
If it is an entry-level or apprentice job then that is fine if they have less but good tools are expensive and a
good mechanic needs a lot of tools to be able to do a variety of repairs.

A mechanic is only as good as his tools!

Sample Interview
As mentioned above you want to have the interview flow and be a mix of general, behavioral and technical
questions. Start with some really easy questions, keep in mind the interviewee is going to be nervous so you
want a couple that they can answer easily. This will get them talking and more comfortable. Feel free to use
the below for your next Mechanic interview.
If you are having a hard time finding mechanics to interview please see our article titled “How to Hire
Mechanics – Finding Technicians.” If you need to Recruit Mechanics in a hurry Contact Rockstar
Mechanics to get a search started or give us a call at 1-833-762-5787.
1. Why did you get into the trade?
2. Why are you available or looking at new opportunities?
3. What types/brands/models of equipment/trucks/cars do you have experience working on?
4. What types of repairs and maintenance do you have experience with? What type of repair do you
specialize on?
5. Tell me about your favorite supervisor or manager that you have worked for, what made them great?
6. What do you know about our company?
7. Why do you want to work with us?
8. Why did you leave your previous employers?
9. What are your favorite jobs to do?
10. What are your least favorite jobs to do?
11. Tell me about a disagreement between you and another mechanic on the shop floor, how was it
resolved?
12. If you had the choice would you rather work a day on the floor and get paid time and a half or spend
a day receiving technical training getting paid regular wages?
13. What diagnostic tools do you have experience using?
14. In your most recent position, what kinds of jobs did you get a lot of?
15. Tell me about a situation where you sacrificed safety for speed.
16. Do you have experience working in the field? If so do you like working in the field?
17. Tell me about a time that you took ownership of a situation or took the lead on the floor without
being asked to.
18. How do you feel about borrowing tools or lending tools to other technicians?
19. Do you have a complete tool set?
20. What experience do you have with in depth engine and transmission repairs?
21. Would you rather get paid more to work on something you don’t like i.e. Waste Trucks or get paid
less but work on something you love i.e. Motorcycles or Classic Cars?
22. What in your previous experience and/or training makes you feel you would be a good fit for us?
23. What are your wage expectations?
24. What shifts are you available for and what is your preferred shift?
25. If selected, when are you available to start?
26. Can you supply us with references?
27. Is there anything that was not covered on your resume or in this interview that you feel we need to
know?