Application Process & Interviews at Urban Utilities

I learnt about the opportunity in person at a careers expo and either emailed through my resume or applied online. Then there was a phone call to confirm a few things, an in person group "assessment" day and finally a virtual interview on Teams. The process was straightforward and well communicated, the talent team was well organised and very responsive.

I was overseas so missed the in-person assessment day and instead attended another assessment day over Zoom with a smaller group. From memory, the process involved the online written application, an in-person assessment centre, a phone call with a HR or company representative and then a confirmation call from HR + reference check

The interviews and assessments were very casual, friendly and unstructured yet professional. I felt equal opportunity to showcase my strength while also being relaxed and showing personality

I applied for the role on LinkedIn and was contacted by the Talent Acquisition lead very quickly. His communication with me throughout the entire process was phenomenal. He kept me posted on what the next steps would be and what I could expect, so I was never left waiting or wondering. After an initial consult with him on the phone, I had an interview with him and my current manager over Teams. They asked a set of pre-given questions that I had time to prepare for, as well as some adhoc questions on the spot. They were both very open and transparent about the work and life at Urban Utilities, and I got a really great impression from the beginning. After the interview, I was officially offered the role.

The interview process consisted of: phone screen with talent team member, assessment day and interview with rotation leader. The assessment day had a group question, of which we were prepared for.

Fast and clear. The assessment centre was really engaging and friendly compared to other assessment centres. The individual interview was fine. Very straightforward and not stressful.

Clear, easy to navigate, thorough.

Interview process and assessments were as fun and relaxed as the business could make them. Teamwork is a big part of the business so this was required for the assessment centre, but it was fun and enjoyable.

Interview, assessment centre was a conventional process. Not confronting and relatively comforting. Online assessment was probably one of the more difficult assessments relative to other companies.

Very easy and are aware of where you are at the whole time

I can't remember any specific questions, it was quite a relaxed, free flowing conversation but we touched on all the standard interview points.

Problem solving task re: integrating sustainable design into the design of the Olympic village for the 2032 games, in keeping with UU's net-0 target. Additionally, one item can't live without, other ice-breaker questions (cannot recall)

What are my interests, what is my experience in my field, how would I respond to several scenarios.

I was given a set of questions a few days before the interview for which I could prepare for. They revolved around why I wanted to work here, how I would act in certain scenarios, and culture fitting questions.

I cannot recall other than one along the lines of 'name a time when you were innovative'.

They weren't your typical behavioural questions. I think the purpose of the interview was more about getting to know me as a person rather than my qualifications and experiences.

I was asked the usual interview questions, and then I was posed a real business issue and asked how I would approach it. I have since tackled this in my role, using the answer I gave in my interview.

What do you know about the business/industry? (it's fine if you don't know much about the industry, they are happy to teach you) Why do you want to work here? Explain a previous experience where you had difficulties and how you overcame it.

Tell me something about you that isn't evident on your resume -Tell me a time where something difficult came about and how did you deal with. -Why Urban Utilities -Example of leadership -Tell me a bit about yourself

I was very inquisitive and asked a lot of questions. I also expressed a lot of genuine enthusiasm and eagerness to learn so I'd say just make sure you bring your personality.

UU placed as much emphasis on your interpersonal skills in addition to general knowledge of the industry/problem-solving skills. They observe how you interact with others in a group-setting

Show your personality and don't be too structured in your planned responses.

Be authentically yourself was a big factor in my experience. Also understanding how you align with the business and what you can bring really helped shape my mindset in answering the questions.

Be you! Just bring your true and authentic self. Facades fade quickly and for you to have the best opportunity for growth you need to be yourself.

Know the company's values and really identify why you want to work there. One thing I realised throughout the assessment day and interview is that they want to hire those who are personable and share the same company values.

Do your research on the company. See if your personal values align with the company's. Think about what your experience can add to the business.

Research the company- make sure their values fit with your own and you understand what kind of work they undertake

Firstly relax, the team here are really welcoming, and they want you to feel comfortable. Secondly, just get as involved as you can in the assessment centres, be willing to give input and take feedback throughout the day, from both other applicants and the team that is there to help.

Extra-curricular activities are important Don't stress too much on the GPA Act natural and normal. Show interest in the actual company Be friendly to all other interviewees, don't try to outcompete them Prepare and review your resume and cover letter properly Meet with industry representatives prior to the application process