This was a phone screen. It is the first step in the process for Covance. It is a pretty low-key 10 to 15 min conversation where they just confirm you level of interest and previous work experience. They ask you directly if you have experience in the areas they are looking for (even if it is not on your resume). They also allow time for you to ask questions. I'd say that they are more knowledgeable about the answers than a company that is screening you for employment with a client, but I still get the feeling they do not have a really good idea about what kinds of candidate the powers that be want to hire. They pretty much just know what's on the job description.