I applied online. The process took 1 day. I interviewed at Environmental Protection Agency in Aug 2011
Interview
Originally heard of the opportunity through a listserv for my major, sent materials to the company and then applied through USA jobs. Overall pretty straight forward, positive interview. Asked about relevant experience, ect. I had looked up information on their publications ahead of time which was helpful. Definitely a good office to be in.
The process took 1 day. I interviewed at Environmental Protection Agency in Jun 2011
Interview
I was contacted for an interview after passing the evaluation process through USA Jobs. I was highly qualified for the job position, but thought it strange they were classifying the position as a Environmental Protection Specialist, which requires no degree. The interview itself consisted of two individuals in person and about four people on the phone. They each had a list of questions....it was weird taking the questions from the phone interviewers. They mostly asked me general questions which could be answered in "yes" or "no" , but I thoroughly elaborated on my responses. The only technical question came from one of the phone interviewers, "How would I go about evaluating a permit application?" I have over 20 years of permitting experience so I know I nailed that respons. There was not one question that I stumbled on and I have not received a rejection letter after 2 months (which is also weird). The only thing that I can guess is that they have some non-degreed candidate earmarked for the position. I am a current federal employee and if I scored higher than their intended candidate they may be waiting for the list to expire because I don't think they can hire below me.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
How would I go about evaluating a permit application.
I applied online. The process took 3 weeks. I interviewed at Environmental Protection Agency (Washington, DC) in Mar 2011
Interview
Called in for a first interview with 2 people on a week's notice. Very comfortable for an interview, even pleasant. Started with questions on my professional history, then moved to my personal/social skills and philosophy of work. Technical questions followed, but in a conversational, non-intimidating way, focusing on what I would consider important issues worth investigating, and how I would approach them. We continued with my questions, to which answers were extensively given. Very stimulating conversation. About 45 min.
Called back for a second interview a couple of weeks later. I gave a 30-min presentation on a technical issue of my choice, met other potential colleagues and executives, and concluded with a brief overview of salary ranges and benefits. Everyone was really nice and even offered helpful advice about the area for relocation. Generally a strong impression that talent is highly valued and people are treated as professionals but with a life outside of work; this was important to me. The fact that personnel is stretched thin and must be able to serve in several capacities came up repeatedly upon probing, though. Mildly informal atmosphere, in terms of dress code and manners.
An informal offer arrived in about 10 days, and a formal one a few days later.
Interview questions [4]
Question 1
Tell us about your professional history and what brings you here.