
NSF Project Manager Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 6 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at NSF.
Project Manager
Applied via USAJOBS. Had some trouble scheduling the first interview because of their workload. Had a phone interview where they outlined the next steps. This was followed by an arranged onsite interview, which was a full day of one-on-one meetings, a presentation, and a group meeting with the support team. Then there was an HR meeting. The salary offer process was a bit strange, as they wanted to base it on previous years' 1040 or W-2, which didn't account for consulting or variable work, and they didn't recognize my experience or allow for negotiation beyond a "signing bonus" option. The atmosphere seemed very collegial, with dedicated professionals. They seem to have a lot of grant money but not enough people to do the work.
No confirmed questions were included in this interview report.
Program Assistant
I got a call for a phone interview that was scheduled for the next day. They gave me a code to use to contact them via an 800 number. I was on a conference call with three women, but I couldn't hear them very well because I was on speakerphone. I wish they would have just called my phone to ask questions.
- Can you describe your current role and its scope?
- What information about yourself didn't make it onto your resume?
Program Assistant
We did a thorough interview. They briefed me on the background. It is a must to have knowledge of the agency and responsibilities. Should have experience in the science setting and knowledge of current events. Need to be familiar with the grant process. Must know the duties of the department that you are applying to enter.
- What is your 5 year plan?
NSF Project Manager Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from NSF interview reports.
“What do you know about NSF?”
Read reports →“What is your 5 year plan?”
Read reports →“What information about yourself didn't make it onto your resume?”
Read reports →“Can you describe your current role and its scope?”
Read reports →“Can you share an instance where you successfully navigated a challenge?”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 6 NSF interview reports.