Why this matters:
Modeling use cases helps systems engineers better perform their job by first identifying what each user group wants, and then studying how to fulfill their needs. Experience in this area is paramount for excellent systems engineer candidates.
What to listen for:
- Examples of potential frustrations encountered, and how they were solved
- Descriptions of the different systems used
Why this matters:
Your organization should look for a candidate that understands the value added by robust systems as a whole. By understanding the planned life of any given system, stakeholders have a way of looking at the “big picture” when making decisions regarding cost, schedule, and other constraints.
What to listen for:
- Deep knowledge of system-level qualities, properties, characteristics, functions, behavior, and performance
- Capable of working with leadership teams for strong decision-making
Why this matters:
Systems engineers often serve as managers or consultants for technology projects, and are also known to develop documentation in those support roles. Experienced candidates should have strong opinions on this process as previous consumers of good and bad documentation alike.
What to listen for:
- Examples of requirements or planning documents uses at the beginning of a project
- Collaboration types involved in the previously developed documentation
Why this matters:
It can be extremely valuable to know which issues your candidate has encountered, and how they subsequently approached testing, assessment, quality assurance, data analysis, and proper solutions development.
What to listen for:
- Indication of thoughtful problem-solving and willingness to persevere until a viable solution is found
- Mention of organizational communication throughout the entire process
Why this matters:
Successful systems engineering hinges on safe and balanced design in the face of both opposing interests, and multiple constraints that may conflict. A strong candidate should articulate their skill for optimizing a system’s overall design, without favoring one system or subsystem at the expense of another.
What to listen for:
- Reactive to new problems, and proactive in implementing improvements
- How the idea was brought from conception to completion, and validation that the goals of the operational system were met
Why this matters:
The exact role and responsibility of a systems engineer may change from day to day depending on the size and complexity of the project. Individuals in this role spend considerable time solving complex problems — often with technology they didn’t create or have prior knowledge of. Resourcefulness, an ability to learn quickly, and creativity are the core tenets for successful systems engineers.
What to listen for:
- Patience, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to continually learn
- Passion and aptitude for flexibility in adapting to new technologies
Why this matters:
You need technical engineers who can communicate the value of their work in a nontechnical way — especially when it comes to presenting ideas to an executive team. A great systems engineer candidate can make complex concepts and terminology simple and benefit-driven for a decision-maker.
What to listen for:
- An ability to describe complex technology in a simple way
- Clear articulation of how the change benefits the business
Why this matters:
Technical engineers who can analyze past experiences and apply that knowledge to work in a new paradigm are invaluable. This question is your candidate’s chance to draw comparisons between the past and future to convince you they’re the best person for the job. How they answer will also reveal how much they know about your company
What to listen for:
- Willingness to be transparent and realistic about contributions
- Understanding of the organization’s goals and how to contribute to them
Why this matters:
It’s never easy to open up about regrets — especially to a stranger who has the power to offer a candidate a new job. But a great candidate will show humility, self-reflection, and an ability to solve problems. Listen closely for transparency, and a sense that the candidate takes pride in the choices that led to their present situation.
What to listen for:
- Previous circumstances and a willingness to maximize chances of achieving professional goals
- Clear illustration of overall mindset
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