US Forest Service Interview Questions

30-45 minute phone interview with a panel. Had two interviews with different offices, which were both very different experiences. One was tailored more to the specific role, and the other used the "standard" questions asked for federal interviews. The standardized question-askers said they wanted to ask follow-up questions but the federal process doesn't allow that, so they are used to using a formula to prevent bias.

I applied through USAJobs and got contacted for an interview two months later. I had one phone interview, which lasted about 30 minutes. He asked about my laboratory experiences, how well I do with independent laboratory work, etc.

The Regional Geologist interviewed me with several other geologists part of the minerals program. We met through Microsoft Teams and they each asked me their own questions. They were friendly and contacted references before the interview.

Interview process was pretty informal. I actually met up with on of the techs on a survey I was already conducting with a lab I was contributing research to in my last semester of undergrad. We talked about a range of topics, but I felt like the interview was more of a physical test than it was an interview. Because of the fact I was already doing a survey, I had a biologist join me to help. I had a number of tasks to complete and accomplish in relation to monitoring the habitat of a target species, and during that I got pretty regular questions like (do you like camping, how do you work with others, etc.) I got an email about a month or so later leading to me completing my hiring paperwork with HR (hands down the worst part of the process).

Phone interview following application on USA jobs. Very informal conversation with the supervisor for the role. Entire process took about 30 minutes. The exchange was more of a conversation than a traditional interview. I also asked lots of questions about role because USA jobs descriptions are very general

Panel interview consisting of 4 interviewers lasting about 45 min. Typical interview questions. Slightly difficult to schedule an interview, but overall an easy experience. Come prepared to ask questions, they are encouraged.

Fairly simple and straightforward questions. They asked about why I wanted to work there, and then asked about my experience. The whole interview lasted a half hour and I was able to ask questions at the end.

25 min zoom call, very easy questions and panel of current FS supervisors. Had some time for my own questions at end. Overall very mellow and didn’t seem long enough to get an idea of the position. Very slow hiring process. The background check process is incredibly poorly communicated.

Filled out an online application through USA Jobs. Went through multiple phone interview calls. Spoke to the recreation manager and planners. I was asked questions related to past outdoor experience, trail work, camping and living outdoors, working as a crew, etc. It felt like a casual conversation where managers were wanting to know that you can be flexible, have a positive attitude, and willingness to be outside on the national forests.

The interview process took about four months from start to finish. It was all done through automated email, I sent in my interest in the position, as well as references, and was contacted for an interview.