
U.S. PIRG Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 47 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Which role are you interviewing for?
6 roles · 47 reportsCandidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at U.S. PIRG.
Climate Solutions Campaign Associate
The interview process was quite drawn out, starting with two detailed questionnaires. After that, I had two virtual interviews that went well with good discussions. The final stage involved an interview with an executive. This last interview felt very different from the previous ones, with quick, open-ended questions that didn't give me a chance to explain my thought process or showcase my skills and personality. It seemed arbitrary and lacked clear criteria. The whole process took about four months, and I ultimately got an automated rejection. Despite their stated value for diverse thinking and strategy, it appeared they expected new hires to conform to a single way of thinking.
- Can you share your personal journey?
Campaign Associate
It was lengthy, taking over 3 weeks between stages. There were two virtual rounds, and the final round was in person. The pay doesn't match the interview process at all. PIRG offered less than $18/hour, and they expect you to be willing to relocate and work 60+ hour weeks. They also ask some ridiculous questions during the interview.
No confirmed questions were included in this interview report.
Government Relations
I applied online and had to fill out a questionnaire with more than 6 detailed written responses. After that, I had a great first interview. The second interview, however, was a disaster. The interviewer, a senior person at PIRG, was really unpleasant and suggested I wasn't qualified. While that might be true, a good company should figure that out before the fourth interview. They also blindsided me by revealing that the office job I applied for actually required several months of canvassing, which wasn't mentioned before. I've gotten jobs before, but never experienced such hostility. It's a relief to see other negative reviews; I suspect the interviewer is dealing with the low pay and tough conditions at PIRG.
- What makes you want to work for PIRG?
Campus Organizer
I was contacted and sent an application to fill out with my resume. I had to schedule a phone interview with a first tier coordinator. It was straightforward, she had my resume and we talked casually for the 45 min. By the end, I was offered a second tier interview. It was supposed to be over skype but ended up being a phone call. That interview was also 45 min, but it seemed like she didn't have the same info as the first person; I doubt she even read my resume. I was given time to talk more and ask questions.
- What is an issue you would like to campaign for?
- Why do you think I should hire you?
- Tell me about a time you struggled to make something happen.
U.S. PIRG Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from U.S. PIRG interview reports.
“In your opinion, who is responsible for the failure of laws promoting a smoke-free environment to pass?”
Read reports →“What lessons can US PIRG take from the NRA?”
Read reports →“When it comes to climate change, what's the priority: taking quick action or ensuring fairness in the actions taken?”
Read reports →“Who is a political leader that inspires you?”
Read reports →“What are your thoughts on trash as a natural product of our society, and should people buy less and recycle more or use fewer resources?”
Read report →“Should policy changes be implemented quickly or justly, and why?”
Read report →“How would you create a campaign for a city council to enact a ban on smoking in public spaces?”
Read report →“Regarding issues facing the U.S., which one do you consider most pressing?”
Read report →“How would you go about organizing a campaign focused on campaign finance reform?”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 47 U.S. PIRG interview reports.