Application Process & Interviews at Queensland Rail

There was the initial CV submission, an online assessment, an in-person group presentation, an individual office assessment, and a panel interview.

To get my current role which was advertised internally only, I had to send through my application with resume and cover letter and then just had to do an online panel interview. The questions were pretty straightforward and we have to answer in the STAR format. We always have one safety question as well, even for those that work in an office environment.

My process involved submitting my application with cover letter and resume, followed by virtual interview and later panel interview. During my cohort, potentially due to COVID, there were no assessment centres, however, I am aware that this year's cohort have had ACs.

Initial application then a video interview. Finally, a candidate day where we had a group activity followed by speed interviews where we rotated between different tables.

The interview questions were mostly scenario questions particularly Safety, conflict management, and experience-based questions.

I was asked to tell them about myself. I was asked why I would like to work for QR. I was also asked what actions I would take during safety critical situations. There were questions related to teamwork and conflict resolution.

I can't quite remember. It was too long ago.

The best way to prepare to start is by doing research on the company values and having an understanding of what the company does. I would then recommend practicing common behavioural questions with a friend or family member.

Know several work examples really well that you can mould to most types of questions. Practise your common interview questions and follow the STAR format. Feel free to bring in notes to your interview to provide prompts if you get flustered. Always prepare for a safety question.

My recommendation would be to do a bit of research and learn about the company. I would also prepare responses to most of the common interview questions (from a Google Search). I would also have questions ready for the end of the interview to show interest in the company.

Do some research about the company and it's values. My company is specifically big on safety so make sure you have a similar mindset.