Working as a maintenance technician at tesco is a crucial role that keeps the company’s stores running smoothly and safely. maintenance technicians ensure all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in the stores are properly maintained and quickly repaired when issues arise. their work prevents downtime, guarantees a safe shopping environment for customers and staff, and supports tesco’s overall operational efficiency. generally, the salary for a tesco maintenance technician ranges from £23,000 to £28,000 annually, depending on experience and location, with opportunities for overtime and career progression.
if you’re preparing for a maintenance technician interview at tesco, it’s important to understand both the technical and behavioral aspects of the role. below are 20 commonly asked interview questions along with sample answers to help you get ready and boost your confidence.
why do you want to work as a maintenance technician at tesco?
answer: i am passionate about problem-solving and maintaining equipment to ensure smooth operations. tesco’s reputation for valuing employee growth and safety motivates me to contribute my skills in a dynamic retail environment.
what experience do you have with electrical and mechanical maintenance?
answer: i have 4 years of experience maintaining electrical systems, HVAC units, and machinery, including troubleshooting faults, performing repairs, and scheduling routine inspections.
how do you prioritize maintenance tasks when multiple issues arise simultaneously?
answer: i assess the impact and safety risks of each issue, then address urgent problems first while communicating timelines clearly for less critical repairs.
what safety procedures do you follow when working with electrical equipment?
answer: i always isolate power sources, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and follow lockout/tagout protocols to prevent accidents.
can you describe a time when you successfully diagnosed a complex equipment fault?
answer: at my previous job, i identified a faulty control relay causing intermittent machine shutdowns by systematically testing components until the root cause was found and replaced.
how do you keep up to date with new maintenance technologies and best practices?
answer: i regularly attend training sessions, read industry publications, and follow relevant online forums to stay informed about the latest tools and techniques.
how do you handle working under pressure during busy store hours?
answer: i remain calm, focus on one task at a time, and communicate clearly with store managers to minimize disruption and complete urgent repairs efficiently.
what tools and equipment are you most proficient in using?
answer: i am skilled with multimeters, power tools, diagnostic software, and general hand tools needed for electrical and mechanical repairs.
describe your experience with planned preventive maintenance programs.
answer: i have implemented scheduled maintenance routines that reduce equipment downtime by inspecting, cleaning, and replacing parts before failures occur.
how do you document maintenance activities?
answer: i maintain accurate logs detailing the work performed, parts used, and time taken, which helps with tracking trends and planning future maintenance.
what would you do if you found a safety hazard during your work?
answer: i would immediately report the hazard to management, take temporary safety measures if possible, and ensure it is resolved before continuing work.
can you explain the importance of teamwork in a maintenance role?
answer: maintenance often requires collaboration with colleagues and other departments to solve problems quickly and ensure all areas are functioning properly.
how do you manage your time when you have a full workload?
answer: i prioritize tasks based on urgency and complexity, avoid distractions, and plan my day to ensure deadlines are met without compromising quality.
what software or systems have you used for maintenance scheduling?
answer: i have experience using CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems) to log work orders, schedule tasks, and track inventory.
how would you deal with a difficult colleague or supervisor?
answer: i would maintain professionalism, listen actively to understand their perspective, and seek common ground to work effectively together.
describe a time when you improved a maintenance process.
answer: i introduced a checklist system that helped my team reduce overlooked tasks and improved overall equipment uptime by 15%.
how do you ensure compliance with health and safety regulations?
answer: i strictly follow legal standards and company policies, attend regular safety training, and conduct risk assessments before starting any work.
what motivates you in a maintenance technician role?
answer: solving problems, learning new skills, and knowing my work contributes to a safe and efficient store environment motivates me daily.
how do you handle unexpected breakdowns outside of regular hours?
answer: i am flexible and willing to respond quickly to urgent calls, prioritizing safety and minimizing store downtime.
why should tesco hire you?
answer: my technical skills, commitment to safety, and ability to work under pressure make me a reliable candidate who can help tesco maintain high operational standards.
in conclusion, preparing for a tesco maintenance technician interview requires both technical knowledge and strong interpersonal skills. be ready to share real examples from your experience, stay calm, and express your enthusiasm for the role. practice common questions, dress professionally, and arrive on time to make a great impression. remember, confidence combined with preparation is your best tool for success. good luck!
