How to answer this Situational interview question about Equipment Troubleshooting for Senior-Level Laboratory Chemist?

What steps do you take to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions during an experiment?

Laboratory Chemist

Situational

Asked at

Merck

Difficulty :

Hard

Explanation

This question assesses your problem-solving skills and ability to handle equipment failures in the lab without compromising the experiment. Recruiters are looking for candidates who can diagnose issues, minimize downtime, and ensure data integrity. A strong answer will include examples of troubleshooting techniques and preventive maintenance. Avoid failing to address documentation and collaboration.

Answer Example

I troubleshoot equipment malfunctions by isolating the issue, consulting equipment manuals, and performing basic checks like recalibration or software updates. For example, during an HPLC analysis, I identified pressure fluctuations caused by a clogged column, which I resolved by flushing the system. I also documented the issue in the maintenance log and coordinated with the technical support team for a long-term solution. This ensures minimal disruption and reliable data.

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