DESC Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 18 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Which role are you interviewing for?
5 roles · 18 reportsCandidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at DESC.
DESC
Peer Support Specialist
Entry Average Positive experience Accept offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Onsite Offer
Interview formats
Behavioral Other
It can take some time to get to the in-person interview, but after that, things move pretty quickly. Stay on top of it. Applying as an internal candidate or being hired for an on-call position could be beneficial.
Confirmed questions2 questions
- Can you explain what harm reduction means to you?
- What are your thoughts on the 'housing first' approach?
DESC
Administrative Assistant
Entry Average Positive experience Accept offer 1 round
Interview process
Recruiter call Onsite
Interview formats
Behavioral
The interview involved two managers who asked typical nonprofit job interview questions. It was a pretty long interview since the questions required detailed answers, but the interviewers were friendly and gave me enough time to respond.
Confirmed questions1 question
- Could you explain the reasons behind homelessness?
DESC
Residential Counselor
Entry Difficult Positive experience Accept offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Onsite
Interview formats
Behavioral Group
I met with the project manager and my direct supervisor. We talked about my ability to set client boundaries, what I understand and think about harm reduction, my goals, and my personal experiences and history. I was open about my past struggles with addiction and homelessness, and they treated me with respect, seeing me as a whole and valuable person. I felt at ease, and their interview questions seemed designed to find the right fit for their building.
Confirmed questions4 questions
- How would you handle a situation where a resident you connect with wants to know personal details about you, and how would you steer the conversation back to the client to uphold boundaries?
- What's your perspective on harm reduction?
- What are your aspirations?
DESC
Coordinator
Entry Average Neutral experience Decline offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Onsite
Interview formats
Behavioral Other
You were given pre-printed questions when you entered and the interviewers were easy-going. They even offered feedback if you wanted it, making it a good experience overall. The head of HR was also really helpful in pointing you towards other opportunities within the company.
Confirmed questions1 question
- Can you define various terms and programs?
DESC Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from DESC interview reports.
“In your opinion, what is the best treatment for schizophrenia?”
Read reports →“Could you explain the reasons behind homelessness?”
Read reports →“What are your thoughts on the 'housing first' approach?”
Read reports →“Why is documentation important in client work?”
Read reports →“Could you explain your understanding of Harm Reduction?”
Read report →“Can you discuss Harm Reduction?”
Read report →“Can you explain what harm reduction means to you?”
Read report →“What's your perspective on harm reduction?”
Read report →“Why did you choose desc”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 18 DESC interview reports.