20 ALSTOM Interview Questions and Answers

ALSTOM is a French multinational company that operates in the rail transport market. It is one of the world’s leading suppliers of railway equipment, with a strong presence in Europe, the United States, China, and India.

ALSTOM is a large company with a wide range of products and services. As such, there are a variety of interview questions that you may be asked if you are interviewing for a position with ALSTOM. In this article, we will provide some sample ALSTOM interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

ALSTOM Interview Process

The interview process at ALSTOM can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most positions will require at least one face-to-face interview. The interview process is generally not too difficult, but it can be lengthy. For some positions, it may take up to two months to receive an offer. Overall, the interview experience is positive and the company is known for being fair and transparent during the hiring process.

1. What is your experience with power system design and simulation?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the power industry and how you can apply it to this role. Your answer should include a brief description of what power system design and simulation is, as well as examples of when you’ve used it in previous roles.

Example: “Power system design and simulation is a process that allows engineers to create models of electrical systems before they’re built. I have experience with this process because my last job required me to use it for every project we worked on. In fact, I was responsible for creating the initial model for our company’s largest solar farm.”

2. Tell me about a time when you had to convince someone to believe in something that they didn’t initially agree with. How did you approach the situation?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you use your communication skills to convince others of a certain idea or concept. Use examples from previous roles that highlight your ability to persuade and influence others with your ideas, opinions and arguments.

Example: “In my last role as an engineer, I had to convince my team leader that we should implement new safety measures for our employees at work. My team leader was hesitant about spending money on these additional precautions because he didn’t think they were necessary. However, I used data and statistics to show him that implementing these safety measures would actually save the company money in the long run.”

3. Describe your experience working on a team of engineers.

Working as an engineer often requires collaboration with other engineers. Employers ask this question to learn more about your teamwork skills and how you interact with others in a professional setting. In your answer, describe a time when you worked on a team of engineers and what role you played. Explain the importance of working together as a team and highlight any specific skills or traits that make you a good teammate.

Example: “In my previous position, I was part of a large engineering team. We all had different specialties, but we also collaborated frequently. For example, if one person needed help with a problem they were having, we would work together to solve it. I think it’s important to be a good teammate because it allows everyone to do their best work. When I collaborate with others, I try to share my knowledge and expertise while also learning from them.”

4. Why do you want to work at Alstom?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your interest in their company. They want to know what you like about Alstom and why you are excited to work there. When preparing for this question, think of specific reasons that make Alstom unique or interesting. Consider mentioning any personal connections you have with the company.

Example: “I’ve always been interested in working at Alstom because I am passionate about renewable energy. I love the idea of creating clean energy solutions that can help people all over the world. I also have family members who work here, so it’s exciting to be able to join them.”

5. Do you have any experience working with software platforms such as Matlab, Simulink, or PSCAD?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the software used in the engineering field. If you have experience with these platforms, explain how they helped you complete a project or task. If you don’t have any experience working with these platforms, it’s okay to say so and then describe what other software you are familiar with.

Example: “I’ve worked with Matlab and Simulink before when I was completing my master’s degree. My thesis required me to use these platforms to create models that would help me understand complex systems. I found them very useful for this purpose because they allowed me to see how different variables affected each other.”

6. Tell us what is important to you when designing a project.

This question is a great way to show your passion for the field and how you approach projects. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific aspects of project design that are important to you or things you look for when designing a project.

Example: “When I am designing a project, I find it most important to consider all stakeholders involved in the process. For example, if I were working on an electrical grid project, I would want to make sure I was considering the needs of both the consumers and producers of electricity. In my last role, I worked with a team to redesign an electrical grid system for a city. We made sure we understood the needs of the consumers and producers before making any changes.”

7. Have you ever been tasked with developing new business relationships?

This question can help the interviewer gain insight into your networking skills and how you approach new relationships. Use examples from previous roles to highlight your ability to connect with others, build trust and establish positive working relationships.

Example: “In my last role as a project manager, I was tasked with developing business relationships with several clients in order to secure more work for our company. I met with each client one-on-one to learn about their needs and challenges so that I could provide solutions through our services. This helped me develop strong relationships with these clients, which led to us securing two large contracts.”

8. What tools would you use to conduct an economic analysis?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the tools used in a specific industry. When answering this question, it can be helpful to list several tools and explain how you would use them.

Example: “I have experience using many different economic analysis tools. I find that the most useful tool for conducting an economic analysis is the Net Present Value (NPV) model. This tool allows me to calculate the present value of future cash flows by discounting each cash flow at a rate that reflects its time value. The Internal Rate of Return (IRR) model is also important because it helps me determine whether a project will generate enough revenue to cover its costs. It does so by calculating the interest rate at which the net present value of all cash flows equals zero.”

9. Would you consider yourself more of an inside sales person or outside sales person? Why?

This question is designed to determine your comfort level with different sales environments. It also helps the interviewer understand how you might fit into their company culture and what type of work environment you prefer. In your answer, try to be honest about which type of salesperson you are and why.

Example: “I would consider myself more of an inside sales person. I enjoy working in a quiet space where I can focus on my clients and build relationships. However, I am comfortable making cold calls and reaching out to new leads when necessary. I find that this method of selling works best for me because it allows me to get to know my clients better and learn about their needs.”

10. We are looking for candidates who can manage many projects at once, how well do you think you would be able to handle that kind of workload?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you are capable of handling a large workload. You can answer this question by describing your ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.

Example: “I have experience managing multiple projects at once, but I also know how important it is to focus on one task at a time. When working with many projects, I make sure to set aside time each day to check in on all my active projects. This helps me stay organized and ensures that I am making progress on all my projects.”

11. If hired, what type of approach would you take to develop client relations?

This question is an opportunity to show your interpersonal skills and how you would interact with clients. It’s important for employees in customer service roles to have strong communication, problem-solving and conflict resolution skills. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation where you used these skills to help a client.

Example: “I believe that the best way to develop client relations is by providing excellent customer service. I would make sure to listen carefully to what my clients are saying and ask questions if I don’t understand something. This helps me learn more about their needs so I can provide them with solutions. If there is ever a problem or concern, I would do everything I could to resolve it as quickly as possible.”

12. Electrical engineering professionals must be able to go beyond simply fixing problems. They need to look for opportunities to improve our products. Can you give an example of a time where you looked for ways to optimize a process or product?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to innovate. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide a specific example of how you helped improve a process or product.

Example: “At my previous job, I was working on a project that involved improving the efficiency of our train’s braking system. After looking at all of the different ways we could improve the brakes, I realized there were several areas where we could make improvements. One way was by making small adjustments to the current design. Another way was by changing the type of brake pads we used. The third way was by completely redesigning the entire braking system.”

13. What skills or qualities make you stand out from other applicants?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their company. When answering, it’s important to highlight skills or qualities that relate to the job description. You may also want to include a skill or quality that is unique or uncommon but could be beneficial for the role.

Example: “I have excellent communication skills, which I developed through my previous work as an event planner. This skill has helped me organize large projects with many moving parts and meet deadlines. In addition, I am highly organized and detail-oriented, which helps me stay on top of tasks and ensure they are completed accurately.”

14. Which area of electrical engineering interests you most?

This question can help the interviewer determine if your interests align with those of ALSTOM. Electrical engineers often specialize in a specific area, such as power generation or transmission and distribution. Your answer should reflect your interest in this field and how it relates to the job you’re applying for.

Example: “I have always been fascinated by renewable energy sources. I find them interesting because they are constantly evolving and improving. In my last role, I worked on a project that improved solar panel efficiency by 10%. This is an example of how electrical engineering can make a positive impact on our world.”

15. As an engineer, you will often find yourself having to explain technical concepts to non-technical people. Give an example of a time this happened. How did you handle it?

This question is designed to assess your communication skills. It also helps the interviewer determine if you are comfortable with public speaking and how you might handle a large group of people.

Example: “I once had to explain some technical concepts to my team about an upcoming project. I started by explaining what the project was, then broke down each component of it. This helped everyone understand the scope of the project and gave them a better idea of what they would be working on.”

16. Make sure you bring all necessary paperwork to your interview.

Interviewers may ask you to provide them with a copy of your resume and references. They may also want to see proof that you have the necessary education, certifications or licenses for the position. Make sure you bring all of these documents with you so you can hand them over when asked.

Example: “I am happy to provide you with copies of my resume, references and any other documentation you need to make sure I’m qualified for this position. I have been working as an engineer for five years now, and I hold a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of California at Berkeley.”

17. Are you comfortable using mechanical equipment?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of mechanical equipment and how you use it. You can answer this question by describing a time when you used mechanical equipment, the type of equipment you used and what you accomplished with that equipment.

Example: “I have experience using mechanical equipment in my previous role as a construction engineer for a large company. I was responsible for overseeing all aspects of construction projects, including hiring subcontractors, managing budgets and ensuring safety standards were met. One day, I noticed one of our cranes wasn’t functioning properly. I climbed up into the crane’s cab and inspected the machinery. After determining the problem, I called in a mechanic to fix the crane.”

18. What do you know about ALSTOM’s history?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the company and its past. It also shows that you have done some research on the company before applying for the job. When answering this question, it’s important to show that you understand how ALSTOM has evolved over time. You can mention any major events or changes in leadership that occurred during the company’s history.

Example: “ALSTOM was founded in 1928 by Marcel Leroux as Société Alsacienne de Constructions Mécaniques (SACM). The company started out making equipment for the mining industry but later expanded into other areas like transportation. In 2000, SACM merged with another French company called Schneider Electric. This merger created one of the largest energy companies in Europe.

In 2014, Schneider Electric sold off its power generation business to General Electric. However, they kept their rail transport and renewable energy businesses. These two parts of the company were then renamed to form ALSTOM.”

19. When was the last time you took initiative without being asked to do so?

This question is a great way to learn more about the applicant’s ability to take initiative and solve problems. It also helps employers determine whether an applicant will be able to fit into their company culture, which can be important for some organizations. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide specific examples of when you took initiative in your previous roles.

Example: “In my last role as a project manager, I noticed that one of our team members was consistently late to meetings. This made it difficult for them to contribute to discussions because they were often missing information. So, I scheduled a meeting with them to discuss the issue. They told me that they had been having trouble getting their child ready for school on time in the mornings. We came up with a solution where they would leave work early two days per week so they could get their child ready for school before leaving for work.”

20. The position requires

This is a behavioral question that allows you to show your problem-solving skills. You can use this opportunity to describe a time when you had to solve a problem at work and how you did it.

Example: “I was working on a project for a client who wanted us to install new equipment in their factory. The equipment we were installing required a lot of power, which meant the factory would need an upgrade to its electrical system. I spoke with my supervisor about the issue, and he told me to find a solution. I looked into different ways to reduce the amount of electricity needed by the equipment. We ended up finding a way to lower the amount of power needed by 20%, saving the company money.”