Hazardous Substances Engineer 

How did you get your current job?
Career center at UC Davis in CA.

What was the application process?
Resume Submittal -> oral exam to determine qualification -> interview

Did you have to interview for your current job? If yes, what did the interview process entail?
The first step is to pass an oral exam to see if you qualify for the job. Then I had to interview for my job. I also was asked to provide a writing sample at the interview. 2-3 employees that you will be working with conduct the interview.

If you can remember, what questions were you asked during the interview?
During a meeting, a co-worker constantly rejects a proposal even tho the rest of the members at the meeting agree to the proposal. How would you handle this situation?

Do you feel your employer properly prepared you for your job? Explain.
Yes. I had to undergo a lot of traning to prepare for my job as listed above. Help was always provided if there was a concept I didn’t understand.

Was there training for your current position? If yes, what did it entail?
The training involved learning how to use the inter departmental email system, 40 hrs of Hazardous Waste Emergency Response Training, CPR/ Standard First Aid Training, 4 hrs Defensive Driving Training, CEQA Training, and reading several section of the California Code of Regulations.

Do you feel your educational background prepared you for your job? Explain.
Yes. I have to work with many company that produce hazardous waste. I have a BS in Chemical Engineering.

If applicable, do you feel your internship experience helped you prepare for your job?
I did not have an internship.

If someone wanted to go about getting a job similar to yours, what would you recommend for him or her to do?
In order to work in a job like mine, you must have a BS degree in civil or chemical engineering or have a science background. No prior work experience is necessary.

What skills do you think a person should have if they want to pursue a position like yours?
A solid English, math and basic chemistry background. Good communication skills. Solid organizational skills.

Do you feel that you need a certain level of education or training to be successful in your job?
You must have a BS in Civil or Chemical Engineering or a BS in a Science related degree program. You must pass an oral exam to see if you qualify for the job.

What advice would you give to someone who was about to start work in your position/ line of work?
Make sure to ask questions when you don’t understand anything. Keep track of everything you work on and make sure you file everything you work on. Make sure your desk is organized.