Question Overview: This question is designed to see how well an applicant can self-critique and identify areas for improvement. The best answer will be one that shows the applicant has a good understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses and is willing to improve upon the latter.
Sample Answer: I'm a perfectionist and can sometimes be too hard on myself when things don't go exactly as planned. I'm always working on improving my time management skills so that I can better manage my time and workload.
Question Overview: A lab technician is responsible for a lot of different tasks and procedures. It's important to find out what an applicant has learned from previous lab work and what they've taken away from the experience.
Sample Answer: I learned a lot about laboratory safety during my internship. I also learned how to properly clean and disinfect equipment and how to use specialized instruments.
Question Overview: Working in a lab can be a stressful environment. There will be times when you have to work with someone you don't get along with. A lab technician must be able to work well with others, even if they're not the most pleasant people.
Sample Answer: I've worked with people I didn't get along with before and I've been able to resolve any issues that came up. I'm always willing to work with others and find solutions that benefit everyone.
Question Overview: This question is a great way to see how well an applicant has researched your company. You want to hire someone who has taken the time to learn about your business and its goals.
Sample Answer: I've read about your company's commitment to providing high-quality products and services to your customers. I'm very excited about the opportunity to be a part of that.
Question Overview: This is a general question that is used to get a feel for the applicant's personality. You want to hire someone who is both professional and personable, and this question will help you to determine if the applicant fits that description.
Sample Answer: I'm a hard-working individual who is always looking for ways to improve my skills. I'm also very detail-oriented and have a passion for the sciences.
Question Overview: Blood manufacturing is a very complex process that requires a lot of specialized equipment and highly trained technicians. A lab technician who is familiar with the process will be able to perform their job more efficiently.
Sample Answer: I'm very familiar with the blood manufacturing process. I've worked in a blood bank for the past two years and have been responsible for maintaining inventory and performing routine tests on specimens.
Question Overview: A research lab is a place where scientists are actively engaged in the discovery of new knowledge. A qualified applicant should be able to demonstrate their experience in this setting.
Sample Answer: I've had experience working in a research lab as an undergraduate student. I worked with a team of other students to design experiments and collect data.
Question Overview: This question is a great opportunity to show off your strengths and how you handle weaknesses. You should be honest in your response, but don't be afraid to highlight your best qualities.
Sample Answer: My strengths are my attention to detail and my ability to work independently. I'm also very good at problem solving. My weaknesses are that I can be a bit of a perfectionist and I'm not the best at working in a group setting.
Question Overview: The salary range for a lab technician is dependent on the type of work they're doing, their level of education and experience and the geographic location of the lab. A qualified applicant should be able to give you a range that is appropriate for their background.
Sample Answer: I'm looking for a salary in the $40,000 to $50,000 range.
Question Overview: Lab technicians are often put in the position of having to defend their work. This can be a stressful situation, but it's important for lab techs to be able to effectively communicate and defend their work in a professional manner.
Sample Answer: I would first ask my employer to provide details of the test that was performed incorrectly. I would then review the test results and compare them with the original data. If I found that there was an error on my part, I would immediately take responsibility and correct the problem.
Question Overview: This is a great opportunity to get a feel for the applicant's personality and work ethic. A good lab technician should enjoy working in a laboratory setting and have a passion for the sciences.
Sample Answer: I really enjoyed my time in the lab. I loved the feeling of being able to contribute to scientific research and I'm excited to be able to continue that work as a lab technician.
Question Overview: This question is a great way to find out if the applicant has a long-term career outlook. It will also give you insight into whether or not they're a good fit for your company.
Sample Answer: I'm looking to become a lab supervisor in the future. I believe this job will help me gain the experience I need to achieve that goal.
Question Overview: The lab is becoming more and more of a digital environment. A lab technician needs to be able to use computers and software to complete their work. They should be able to detail their experience with computer programs and software.
Sample Answer: I'm familiar with the use of Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint. I've also used various laboratory software programs for data analysis and record-keeping.
Question Overview: This is a fun question that will give you insight into the applicant's personality and interests. It's also a good way to gauge their creativity and sense of humor.
Sample Answer: I'd probably buy a house and a new car. I'd also travel to some of the places I've always wanted to see.
Question Overview: This question is intended to get an idea of how the applicant interacts with others. A lab technician must be able to work well with others and communicate effectively in order to be an effective member of a research team.
Sample Answer: My friends would say that I'm a very outgoing person who is always willing to help out a friend in need. They'd also say that I'm very organized and detail-oriented.
Question Overview: This question is designed to give you insight into the applicant's education and experience. It's important to find out what kind of background they have in order to determine if they're qualified for the position.
Sample Answer: I have a bachelor's degree in chemistry and a minor in computer science. I've been working as a lab technician for three years and have experience with a variety of different laboratory equipment.
Question Overview: Lab work is constantly changing. New samples are coming in, new equipment is being installed and new tests are being developed. It's important for lab technicians to be able to adapt to these changes and work effectively with them.
Sample Answer: I've always been able to adapt to change. Whether it's a new lab procedure or a new piece of equipment, I'm able to quickly learn how it works and how it fits into the overall process.
Question Overview: Lab technicians are often required to relocate to different facilities in order to advance their career. This is especially true for those who are looking to work in the private sector.
Sample Answer: Yes, I am willing to relocate.
Question Overview: Phlebotomy is the process of drawing blood from a patient. It's a skill that lab technicians must be comfortable with in order to perform their job duties. A qualified applicant should be able to name the number of sticks they've performed and give you a brief description of their experience.
Sample Answer: I've drawn blood from over 200 patients during my time as a phlebotomist.
Question Overview: This question is used to determine if the applicant is available to start work immediately. If they're not, you may want to consider other applicants.
Sample Answer: I'm available to start work on Monday, September 3rd.