Site manager interviews focus less on textbook knowledge and more on how you actually handle a live site under pressure. Here’s what tends to come up.
“Tell me about a time a project fell behind schedule — what did you do?”
Interviewers want a specific example, not a general answer. Structure it: what caused the delay, what you changed (resequencing trades, extra shifts, escalating a supplier issue), and the actual outcome — did it get back on track, and by how much.
“How do you handle a subcontractor who isn’t performing?”
This is really a question about people management. Good answers cover having the conversation early and directly, referencing the programme and contract, and escalating through the right channels (main contractor, procurement) if it doesn’t improve — rather than letting it drift.
“Walk me through how you’d handle a near-miss or safety incident on site”
Expect this on almost every site manager interview. Cover: securing the area, reporting through the correct RIDDOR/company process, the toolbox talk or briefing that follows, and how you’d prevent a repeat — not just what you’d do in the moment.
Questions to ask them
Ask about the live project pipeline, team structure on site, and what’s caused delays on similar past projects. It signals you’re thinking about the job itself, not just getting through the interview.