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Civil Engineering Interview Questions

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."

Why should we hire you?

The simple and genuine answer to this civil engineering interview question is to talk about your skills that make you a perfect candidate for the job role. Highlight qualities that are important in this profession such as planning, designing and implementing. The best way to answer this question is to read carefully the job description and choose skills required in the role. Also, explain your strengths with some examples to make the employer know about your suitability for the job.

Why do you want to work for our company?

This 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.

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."

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

This 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 to look for in an answer:

• 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."