Landing a Maintenance Technician role at Sodexo is an exciting opportunity to join a global leader in facilities management, where your skills in repair, upkeep, and safety play a crucial role. Sodexo Maintenance Technicians ensure that buildings and equipment run smoothly, contributing to operational efficiency and safety. The role typically involves preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and hands-on repairs across mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Salaries for Maintenance Technicians at Sodexo in the UK often range from £25,000 to £32,000 annually, depending on experience and location, with opportunities for overtime and career progression.
Preparing thoroughly for your Sodexo Maintenance Technician interview will give you the edge to impress hiring managers. Below, I outline 25 essential interview questions and answers, broken down into sample opening questions, competency questions utilizing the STAR method, and ending questions — all designed to help you present your best self. Whether you’re a seasoned technician or new to the role, my expert advice as a UK-based career coach with over 25 years’ experience will set you on the path to success.
Sample opening questions and answers
Tell me about yourself and your maintenance experience.
“I have over five years’ experience as a Maintenance Technician, working across commercial and residential buildings. I’m skilled in mechanical repairs, electrical troubleshooting, and preventative maintenance, always prioritizing safety and efficiency.”
Why do you want to work for Sodexo?
“Sodexo’s commitment to sustainability and employee development really resonates with me. I want to contribute my skills to a company known for its high standards and innovation in facilities management.”
What do you know about the Maintenance Technician role at Sodexo?
“I understand the role involves ensuring operational reliability through regular inspections, timely repairs, and compliance with health and safety standards. It also includes collaborating with other departments to support overall facility management.”
Competency questions and answers (using the STAR model)
The STAR model (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is a great framework to answer competency questions clearly.
Describe a time you fixed a complex mechanical issue.
Situation: In my last role, a critical HVAC unit stopped working.
Task: I needed to diagnose and repair it quickly to avoid disruption.
Action: I methodically checked electrical connections, replaced a faulty capacitor, and recalibrated the system.
Result: The HVAC was back online within hours, improving comfort and avoiding costly downtime.
Tell me about a situation where you had to follow strict safety procedures.
Situation: During a boiler maintenance task, strict protocols were in place due to gas hazards.
Task: My job was to safely complete maintenance without risk.
Action: I followed lockout-tagout procedures, used personal protective equipment, and double-checked all connections.
Result: The job was completed safely with no incidents, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
Give an example of how you handled a difficult stakeholder or colleague.
Situation: A department manager disagreed with my proposed repair schedule.
Task: I needed to explain the urgency and safety concerns clearly.
Action: I calmly provided data on equipment risks and proposed a compromise schedule.
Result: The manager agreed, and repairs were done on time, preventing breakdowns.
Explain a time you improved a maintenance process.
Situation: The preventive maintenance logs were inconsistent.
Task: I was asked to streamline record-keeping.
Action: I introduced a digital checklist and trained the team on its use.
Result: Maintenance tracking became more accurate, reducing missed tasks by 30%.
How do you prioritize multiple urgent repair requests?
Situation: I often faced several urgent repairs at once.
Task: I had to determine which needed immediate attention.
Action: I assessed safety risks and operational impact to prioritize work orders.
Result: Critical issues were resolved first, minimizing downtime and safety hazards.
Describe a time you trained or supported a junior technician.
Situation: A new technician joined our team with little experience.
Task: I needed to get them up to speed.
Action: I paired them with experienced staff and provided hands-on demonstrations.
Result: They quickly gained confidence and became productive within weeks.
Ending questions and answers
What are your salary expectations?
“Based on my experience and market rates, I am looking for a salary in the range of £28,000 to £32,000, but I’m open to discussion.”
Where do you see yourself in five years?
“I aim to advance into a senior technician or maintenance supervisor role, continuing to develop my skills and contributing to Sodexo’s success.”
Do you have any questions for us?
“Yes, could you tell me more about Sodexo’s training and career development opportunities for Maintenance Technicians?”
Additional key questions and answers to prepare
How do you handle working under pressure?
What maintenance software are you familiar with?
Can you explain the importance of documentation in maintenance?
Describe your experience with electrical systems.
Have you worked with plumbing systems?
How do you ensure compliance with health and safety standards?
What tools and equipment do you feel most confident using?
Tell me about a time you suggested a cost-saving improvement.
How do you keep your technical knowledge up to date?
Describe your experience with emergency repairs.
How do you manage work requests and scheduling?
What motivates you as a Maintenance Technician?
Can you describe a challenging maintenance project and how you completed it?
Do’s and Don’ts for your Sodexo Maintenance Technician interview
Do:
Prepare examples using the STAR method.
Dress smartly and arrive on time.
Show enthusiasm for the role and the company.
Highlight your safety awareness and technical skills.
Ask insightful questions about training and career progression.
Don’t:
Don’t give vague answers or ramble.
Avoid negative comments about previous employers.
Don’t underestimate the importance of communication skills.
Avoid being unprepared for competency questions.
Don’t forget to follow up with a thank-you note.
Final interview coaching encouragement and tips
Remember, an interview is as much your chance to learn about Sodexo as it is for them to learn about you. Be confident, clear, and concise. Use the STAR model to structure your answers, and let your passion for the maintenance trade shine through. Practice common questions aloud, and don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional interview coach. The right preparation can make all the difference.
If you want to maximise your chances, consider booking personalised interview training. An expert interview coach can help refine your answers, build your confidence, and tailor your approach specifically for Sodexo. Invest in yourself with professional interview coaching and walk into your next interview ready to succeed.
Good luck!
