Structural Engineer Interview Questions

Structural engineers design, plan and oversee the construction of new buildings and bridges, or alterations and extensions to existing properties or other structures. Structural engineers are primarily concerned with designing aesthetically pleasing buildings and structures that are safe and capable of withstanding the elements to which they will be exposed. They build 2D and 3D models using computer-aided design technology (e.g. AutoCAD).

Whether you're a job seeker preparing to be interviewed for the role of Structural Engineer or an employer preparing to interview candidates for Structural Engineer position, these Structural Engineer interview questions will help you prepare yourself for the job interview session.

Structural Engineer Interview Questions

Below are a list of some skill-based Structural Engineer interview questions.

1. What type of structures do you have experience designing?
2. What structural engineering project are you most proud of and why?
3. Have you conducted a ground investigation? If so, how did it go?
4. Can you describe the key differences between steel and concrete as structural building materials?
5. Do you have any professional engineering certifications?
6. Can you tell me about some of the on-the-job training you have received?
7. Can you tell me about the responsibilities of your most recent position as a structural engineer?
8. How would you rate the collapse risk level of this structure?
9. What are some types of torsional buckling?
10. Please describe the most technically interesting building you know.
11. Can you draw a shear force diagram? Explain why shear and moment diagrams are important.
12. Describe your process for ensuring that all of the materials you recommend are safe and compatible with each other.
13. What should you consider when building on a site of special scientific interest (SSSI)?
14. We want our structures to last for decades. How would you design our buildings to withstand the test of time?
15. Can you describe some different types of flow profiles?
16. When is it appropriate to use reinforced steel in the construction of a building?
17. What area of structural engineering do you find most challenging?
18. Explain the role of BIM in engineering projects?
19. Do you have experience working with a team of contractors to oversee the construction of large buildings?
20. Can you describe your experience inspecting various types of properties?
21. How well do you work with other engineers to share ideas and collaborate on projects?
22. What is a crack width limit and why is it important?
23. What would you do if you noticed that the foundation of a new building you designed was off by just a few inches?
24. How do you increase the flow capacity of a pipe?
25. How do you identify the critical pressure points of a pipe?
26. Provide an example of a time when you had to use your creativity to solve a problem during the design process.
27. Which computer programs or software have you used in the past to complete engineering projects?
28. What is your process for inspecting a building or structure to determine if there are any issues that need to be addressed?
29. How do you communicate the technical aspects of a project to individuals that may not have technical knowledge?
30. How do you determine the most efficient and cost-effective way to construct a new building or structure?
31. Sketch a strip foundation and build up to show how you would construct a suspended slab.
32. What are some of the most important factors you consider when designing a new structure?
33. How do you stay up-to-date with engineering news and technology?
34. Are you familiar with the latest building codes and standards for your area of practice?
35. What makes you the best candidate for this structural engineer position?

Structural Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Every interview is different and the questions may vary. However, there are lots of general questions that get asked at every interview.

Below are some common questions you'd expect during Structural Engineer interviews. Click on each question to see how to answer them.

1. Tell Me About Yourself
2. Why Do You Want To Leave Your Current Job?
3. What is Your Greatest Strength?
4. Are You a Leader or a Follower?
5. Why Do You Want This Job?
6. What Is Your Greatest Accomplishment?
7. Do You Have Any Questions for Us?
8. What is Your Salary Expectation?
9. Why Should We Hire You?
10. What is Your Greatest Weakness?