Trades assistant Interview Questions

‘I recently completed my general safety induction training course and obtained my “white card”. I also completed a first aid course because I know accidents can happen on construction sites. For the next year, my goal is to complete a Certificate II in Construction to gain additional skills and knowledge.’

‘In my previous role as trades assistant, I noticed that one of my senior colleagues wasn’t wearing a hard hat. But our policy stipulated that anyone working on our site was required to wear a hard hat, high-visibility vest and steel cap boots. I didn’t want to embarrass or criticise my colleague in public, so I asked to talk to them privately and mentioned the missing hard hat. Thankfully, my colleague agreed that he made a mistake because he was rushing back from a break and promptly went to get his hard hat. If he hadn’t, I would have approached our supervisor to respectfully raise the issue, as I believe safety in the workplace is paramount.’

‘I’ve been doing shift work from my very first job at a manufacturing plant, and I really like it because the varying work days and hours give me more flexibility. I often get things done during the day when shops and offices are less busy because most other people are at work. I don’t mind working on weekends either, as it means I’ll get other days off instead.’

‘In my previous role as trades assistant in the mining industry, I had to work underground and in dusty mine shafts. The role required me to wear protective equipment such as gloves or safety goggles at all times. I quickly got used to these conditions and believe I can easily adapt to other difficult work environments.’

‘I really like working as a trades assistant, but once I have five years of experience under my belt, I’d like to progress to a role with more responsibility. My aim is to specialise in pipe-laying and gain a vocational qualification in this field.’

‘In my spare time, I like to help my dad with his DIY projects. From an early age, he taught me how to use power tools and perform simple electrical work. So, although I haven’t worked as a trades assistant for an employer before, I’ve already acquired many of the skills the role requires, plus I’m keen to learn more on the job. I’m a hard worker and quick learner, so I believe I’ll make a good addition to your team.’

‘As a trades assistant, my job is to help other professionals to do their job well. This involves me carrying out maintenance on tools and equipment and ensuring they are ready for use. I also perform general labour tasks such as assisting with mechanical work, cutting, welding, carpentry or plumbing. I’m also able to operate tools and machinery such as power drills, nail guns, spanners or automotive equipment.’

‘When I first started working, I was hired to assist workers in a production facility. They were short-staffed and needed me to quickly learn how to operate a forklift. My employer sent me on a training course and paid for my forklift training and licence, so now I have the relevant skills and official qualification.’

‘I definitely enjoy being part of a team and feeling like I belong to a group of colleagues who each contribute their individual skills to get things done together. But I can also just as easily work alone and carry out any tasks assigned to me independently. My employers always appreciate that I’m so flexible.’

‘I researched your company and saw many positive reviews online. It seems that most employees are very happy and highly recommend working here, so the working environment must be great. I also saw that your company won an award for best regional employer two years ago, so I’m very keen to join and become part of your team.’