Questions to Ask a Maintenance Technician in an Interview
Technical questions that assess hands-on skills, problem-solving abilities, and experience with building systems and equipment.
1What types of HVAC systems have you worked with?
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What types of HVAC systems have you worked with?
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Why this works
Assesses technical knowledge and experience with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems commonly found in buildings.
2How do you approach troubleshooting electrical issues?
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How do you approach troubleshooting electrical issues?
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Why this works
Evaluates systematic problem-solving skills and understanding of electrical safety protocols and procedures.
3What's your experience with plumbing systems and repairs?
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What's your experience with plumbing systems and repairs?
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Why this works
Determines hands-on experience with common plumbing issues and ability to work with various pipe materials and fixtures.
4How do you prioritize maintenance tasks when multiple issues arise?
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How do you prioritize maintenance tasks when multiple issues arise?
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Why this works
Assesses organizational skills and ability to make decisions under pressure while considering safety and urgency.
5What safety protocols do you follow when working on building systems?
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What safety protocols do you follow when working on building systems?
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Why this works
Evaluates commitment to safety standards and understanding of proper procedures for working with potentially hazardous equipment.
6How do you handle emergency repairs outside of normal business hours?
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How do you handle emergency repairs outside of normal business hours?
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Why this works
Assesses availability, response time, and ability to work under pressure during critical situations.
7What's your experience with preventive maintenance programs?
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What's your experience with preventive maintenance programs?
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Why this works
Determines understanding of proactive maintenance strategies and ability to implement systematic maintenance schedules.
8How do you communicate technical issues to non-technical staff or residents?
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How do you communicate technical issues to non-technical staff or residents?
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Why this works
Evaluates communication skills and ability to explain complex problems in understandable terms.
9What tools and equipment are you most comfortable using?
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What tools and equipment are you most comfortable using?
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Why this works
Assesses technical proficiency and familiarity with professional-grade maintenance tools and equipment.
10How do you stay updated on new building technologies and systems?
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How do you stay updated on new building technologies and systems?
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Why this works
Evaluates commitment to professional development and ability to adapt to evolving building technologies.
11What's your approach to working with vendors and contractors?
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What's your approach to working with vendors and contractors?
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Why this works
Assesses collaboration skills and ability to coordinate with external service providers for complex repairs.
12How do you handle maintenance requests from residents or tenants?
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How do you handle maintenance requests from residents or tenants?
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Why this works
Evaluates customer service skills and ability to manage expectations while providing quality service.
13What's your experience with building automation systems?
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What's your experience with building automation systems?
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Why this works
Determines familiarity with modern building management systems and ability to work with computerized controls.
14How do you document maintenance work and keep records?
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How do you document maintenance work and keep records?
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Why this works
Assesses organizational skills and understanding of the importance of maintenance documentation for building management.
15What's your approach to training other maintenance staff?
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What's your approach to training other maintenance staff?
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Why this works
Evaluates leadership potential and ability to share knowledge and mentor junior technicians.
16How do you handle situations where you need to work in occupied spaces?
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How do you handle situations where you need to work in occupied spaces?
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Why this works
Assesses professionalism and ability to work respectfully around residents while completing necessary repairs.
17What's your experience with energy efficiency improvements?
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What's your experience with energy efficiency improvements?
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Why this works
Determines understanding of modern building efficiency standards and ability to implement cost-saving measures.
18How do you manage inventory and ordering of maintenance supplies?
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How do you manage inventory and ordering of maintenance supplies?
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Why this works
Evaluates organizational skills and ability to maintain adequate supplies while controlling costs.
19What's your approach to working with building management software?
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What's your approach to working with building management software?
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Why this works
Assesses computer skills and ability to use digital tools for work order management and reporting.
20What qualities do you think make a successful maintenance technician?
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What qualities do you think make a successful maintenance technician?
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Why this works
Reveals self-awareness and understanding of the role's requirements, showing insight into what makes someone effective in this position.
Hiring the Right Maintenance Technician
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Assess Technical Competency
Focus on hands-on experience with building systems, tools, and equipment. Look for candidates who can demonstrate practical knowledge.
Evaluate Problem-Solving Skills
Ask about specific troubleshooting scenarios and how they approach complex maintenance challenges. Look for systematic thinking.
Check Safety Awareness
Ensure candidates understand safety protocols and have experience working with potentially hazardous equipment and situations.
Question Sequences
The Technical Assessment Sequence
The Operational Excellence Sequence
Common Pitfalls
Don't Focus Only on Technical Skills
While technical ability is important, also assess communication skills, customer service orientation, and ability to work with others.
Don't Ignore Safety Training
Ensure candidates have proper safety training and certifications. Don't assume technical knowledge includes safety awareness.
Don't Overlook Soft Skills
Maintenance technicians often interact with residents and staff. Assess their ability to communicate effectively and professionally.