CIVIL ENGINEERING TOP 5 INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

1st and most important question 

What made you decide to become a civil engineer?

This question allows candidates to explain their reasons for becoming a civil engineer. The answer will be unique to individuals and will give you insight into what inspired them to choose this career path. 

What to look for in an answer:

• A genuine answer that reflects a true passion for this career path
• An unhurried reply that shows that the answer was well thought out

Example: "I decided to become a civil engineer because of my father who is a Math teacher. As a child he shared his great love for solving mathematical equations and other types of puzzles with me. He was always asking me to look outside the box to solve each dilemma. He encouraged me to have a quizzical mind and to always explore not only how something was built but also how it worked. He inspired me to figure out if the design could be improved upon by utilizing a different means."

Now 2nd important question Lets you see if the applicants have done their homework on the particular company. Before interviewing, it is critical that an applicant prepare to ask and answer questions relating to the company's mission statement and priorities in accomplishing those goals. 

Why do you want to work for our company?

What to look for in an answer:

• An answer that shows that the applicant researched the company before applying
• Details about the company that make it different from others
• An answer that reflects the company's mission statement

Example: "I would like to work at HTWW Engineering because of the excellent reputation it has for doing a job efficiently, but also in a way that enhances the structure so that it represents the high standards of this company. Clients who employ this company should be confident that the work will be accomplished in a fastidious manner with attention to important details that will make the owner proud for many decades."

Now 3rd question Evaluates the ability of candidates to show that they understand the role and know what is necessary to be successful. This allows applicants to voice the traits that they believe are necessary for the job, as well as those required by senior management. 

What kind of personality traits do you believe a civil engineer needs to be successful?

• A thoughtful answer that encompasses what is necessary to do the job well
• An answer that shows the individual is knowledgeable about the frustrations that can be present in this particular job
• A well-rounded viewpoint about the pros and cons of the job

Example: "I think that civil engineers need to have patience, flexibility and self-discipline to be successful. A deadline can be frustrating, particularly when there are many unexpected delays. But the occupation is extremely rewarding, and it takes a special type of person to excel in this field. Civil engineers have to consider state and local requirements, as well as the needs of the client."

Now 4th question Helps the interviewer determine how the candidate will interact with clients who have many different temperaments and desires. If the civil engineer can't communicate effectively with the client, an unhappy and dissatisfied relationship will result. 

How do you interact with clients?

• A truthful answer that lets you know the person's strengths
• An answer that shows the applicant knows the importance of maintaining good relationships with clients
• An answer that doesn't shy away from the fact that there are often conflicts between the client and engineer, but they must be handled professionally

Example: "Clients play a critical role in the process, whether it is in the planning, design, construction, maintenance or operation of the infrastructure. Their input cannot be ignored or disrespected. At the same time, the engineer's expertise must shine. I believe that my patience, knowledge and sincerity will help me during these interactions with clients."

Now 5th question  Is a great way to gauge whether the applicant is aware of the latest trends in the industry. 

What are the biggest challenges that you believe civil engineers face?

•  honest person will readily admit that there are challenges in all jobs
• Look for work ethics that reflect the company's values
• Listen for clues in how the applicant would resolve the conflict

Example: "In my opinion, the biggest challenge that civil engineers face is dealing with clients who want to take shortcuts in order to get the job done on time. Persuading the client that taking shortcuts is not only unethical but can also be dangerous is sometimes a difficult task. It is imperative to gain their cooperation in order to protect the integrity of the company so that it remains a viable leader in the industry."