Interview Tips for Manufacturing

Manufacturing is one of the UK’s most important industries, employing over 2.5 million people and offering roles that range from shop floor to senior management (Make UK, 2024). With salaries often above the national average and strong investment in new technology, competition for jobs can be tough. To make the right impression, you need more than a decent CV. Interviewers want to see your preparation, industry knowledge, and how you will fit into their team.

Here are some practical tips we have learnt from years of working with candidates and hiring managers in the manufacturing sector.

Research the Company and the Role

Preparation is the first thing employers look for. Do not stop at the company’s website. Check their recent news, contracts, or product launches so you can bring this into the conversation. If you know where they sit in the supply chain and the challenges they face, you will be ahead of other candidates.

It is also worth looking up your interviewer on LinkedIn to learn more about their background. Finally, take the job description apart and line up your skills against it so you can make clear connections during the interview.

If interviews feel daunting, have a look at our guide on whether job interviews are really as difficult as people think. It explains what employers are actually looking for and how to prepare effectively.

Get Ready for the Questions You Will Face

Most interviews in this sector mix technical and behavioural questions. Expect things like:

• What is your experience with [specific machinery or software]?

• How do you make sure quality standards are met in your work?

• Can you give an example of a production issue you solved?

• What would you do if you spotted a safety concern on the line?

Competency-based questions are also common, especially around teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is a reliable way to answer clearly without rambling.

The National Careers Service interview advice is well worth reading through before you go.

Show Your Technical Ability

Manufacturing roles are built on practical skills. Be prepared to talk through your experience with machinery, robotics, software like ERP or CAD, and any lean manufacturing methods you have used.

• Mention relevant certifications, such as forklift licences, Six Sigma, or health and safety training.

• Back up your answers with numbers: “reduced downtime by 15%” or “improved output by 20 units per shift” always carries weight.

• If you have taken part in continuous improvement projects, explain your part and the results.

Do Not Overlook Soft Skills

It is easy to focus on technical ability, but the best manufacturing candidates show they can also work well with others. Hiring managers want people who can:

• Communicate clearly across teams.

• Work effectively in a fast-paced, shift-based environment.

• Solve problems without waiting to be told.

• Adapt to new systems and processes as the industry evolves.

Plenty of good candidates fall at the first hurdle because of their applications. Our guide to 4 CV Mistakes That Could Cost You the Job is a good way to make sure you are not ruled out before the interview stage.

Safety and Culture Matter

Every manufacturing business will test you on safety. Be ready with examples of when you have followed procedures, raised concerns, or improved safe working practices.

Culture fit is equally important. Employers do not only want someone who can do the job; they want someone who will contribute positively to the team and fit their way of working.

If you want to practise before your interview, Careers Wales has a useful guide on interview techniques which includes scenarios you can run through.

Ask Your Own Questions

The questions you ask at the end of an interview often stick in the interviewer’s mind. A few strong examples include:

• What are the biggest production challenges at the moment?
• What training or progression opportunities are there?
• What would you expect me to achieve in the first six months?

This shows you are interested in the bigger picture and already thinking about how you would add value.

If you would like inspiration, The Open University interview tips include strong examples of questions candidates can ask.

Get the Basics Right

The simple things still count:

• Plan your route and arrive early.

• Dress in a way that is right for the role. If you are likely to have a plant tour, steel-toe boots and safety glasses may be more appropriate than a full suit.

• Bring a copy of your CV and something to take notes with.

• Always follow up with a short thank-you email.

Final Thought

Manufacturing employers look for reliable, skilled people who can work well in a team. If you can demonstrate technical knowledge, a commitment to safety, and the ability to adapt, you will stand out from other candidates.

And if you are open to temporary work while you find the right role, our guide to getting the most out of temp jobs explains how short-term contracts can boost your long-term career.

For a sense of what interviewers are most likely to ask, the National Careers Service list of top interview questions is a helpful resource.

Good luck with your next manufacturing interview. Being well-prepared really does make all the difference.