Best Friends Animal Society Interview Questions
& Process

I applied online and then had an interview with HR a few days later. They asked a lot of really in-depth, involved questions. It seemed like they wanted to get my psychological profile more than learn about my experience. The HR person seemed impatient when I answered the questions — like they couldn't wait for me to stop talking. It was super formal, scripted, and there really was no time for me to ask any follow-up questions. Then they ghosted me. I had to chase down the person who referred me only to learn the position had been filled.

We started with emails, which take a bit to get back since there are so many people applying. Since the company is in Utah and jobs are often remote, the first HR chats are over the phone. I met the main manager in person in LA, but they sometimes do phone interviews too. Other team members I met with were either in person or on the phone, depending on where they were. They really care about finding people who fit the vibe, so you'll probably talk to a bunch of the team. They like to promote from within and hire volunteers first, so if you're serious, volunteering and getting known is a good move. Family members also get hired often, and they're totally qualified and seem to know their stuff from growing up in animal welfare, so it's not just random favoritism.

Applied online and heard back from HR pretty fast. The next couple of interviews were over video, one with the hiring manager and another with a group of future coworkers, all within a few weeks. There was supposed to be a last round at the Utah Ranch. Everyone was really friendly and I enjoyed chatting with them; no tricky questions. It got a bit frustrating at the end though. I was quick to respond at first, but then had to chase HR for an answer. Even after dedicating about 3 hours to interviews, I didn't get any explanation, just that they hired someone else. It feels like if you get that far, you should at least get some feedback.

I applied online and heard back in 2 days. The first interview was a phone call scheduled for 2 weeks out. It covered typical interview questions but mostly focused on workplace conflict. They said they'd pass my application up the chain and get back to me, but didn't say when. I thought that was a no, but then 2 weeks later they called for a second phone interview the following week. The questions were similar, like they had a list. No real getting to know you. Two weeks after that, they offered a working interview, which pays $10/hr and you're on your own for housing. I scheduled it for 2 weeks later. The first day involved a tour of the sanctuary, meeting HR, and then a half-day of work (paid for a full day). Then a day off to explore the town and look for housing (which is apparently non-existent). After that, it was 5 consecutive days of working. The first full day included lunch with team leads and supervisors, but otherwise, I was on my own. Work hours were 8-5 with an hour lunch daily. The starting pay is $12/hr, with potential raises of 1-3% annually, but not guaranteed. No overtime, ever. You work a set 5 days a week, and if that doesn't include weekends, too bad. I didn't have any other contact with my team leads or supervisor that week besides that lunch, and my supervisor only told me they'd be in touch 10 minutes before I left on the last day. I sent thank-you notes when I got home and was told they'd let me know in 'a week or so'. A week and a half later, I didn't get an offer. Honestly, I was relieved. Low pay for a tough but rewarding job, with little appreciation in a beautiful but costly place. Do your research, listen to reviews, and good luck.