17 Architectural Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

From the initial design concept to the completed project, architectural engineers are responsible for the look and functionality of buildings and other structures. They work on everything from hospitals and office complexes to homes and schools.

If you’re interviewing for an architectural engineer position, you can expect to be asked a range of questions about your experience, your design process, and your understanding of building codes and regulations. In this article, we’ll provide you with sample questions and answers that will help you prepare for your interview.

Are you comfortable working with a team of professionals to complete a project?

Architectural engineers often work with other professionals, such as architects and construction managers. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable working in a team environment. In your answer, explain that you enjoy collaborating with others on projects. Explain that you are willing to take direction from more experienced professionals.

Example: “I have worked with many different types of professionals throughout my career. I find it helpful to collaborate with other professionals because we can all offer unique perspectives on a project. For example, an architect may be able to see things differently than me when looking at blueprints. This helps us create the best possible design for a building or structure.”

What are some of the most important skills for an architectural engineer to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills they’re looking for in an architectural engineer. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a few of your own skills and how they relate to those that are important for an architectural engineer.

Example: “I think communication skills and problem-solving skills are two of the most important skills for an architectural engineer to have. Communication is important because it allows us to work with clients and other engineers on projects. Problem-solving skills allow us to find solutions to problems we encounter while working on a project. I feel both of these skills are essential to being successful as an architectural engineer.”

How do you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in your field?

Employers ask this question to see if you are passionate about your work and how you stay informed. They want someone who is eager to learn new things, so show them that you have a plan for keeping up with the latest developments in architecture engineering.

Example: “I am passionate about my career, so I make it a point to read articles and attend seminars on the latest developments in architecture engineering. I also subscribe to several architectural engineering magazines and newsletters to keep myself updated on the newest technologies and materials. I find these resources very helpful when I’m working on projects because they give me ideas for new ways to solve problems.”

What is your process for designing a new structure?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you approach your work and what steps you take to complete projects. Your answer should include a few of the most important steps in your process, such as researching the client’s needs, creating sketches and developing models.

Example: “I first meet with the client to learn more about their project and determine which materials they want to use for construction. Then I research different types of building materials and compare them based on cost, durability and other factors. Next, I create sketches that show the layout of the structure and its design elements. After this step, I develop 3D models using computer software to ensure the structure is safe and meets all necessary standards.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to make a design change on a project. How did you go about implementing the change?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you adapt to change and your problem-solving skills. Use examples from previous projects where you had to make a design change, but also highlight how you implemented the changes in a timely manner.

Example: “In my last role as an architectural engineer, I was working on a project that required me to create a blueprint for a new building. During the planning stages of the project, I noticed that there were some structural issues with the foundation of the building. Rather than ignore the issue, I immediately informed my manager about the problem so we could find a solution. We decided to move the location of the building by one hundred feet to avoid any further structural problems.”

If you could design any building, what would it be and why?

This question is a great way to see how passionate you are about architecture and design. It also shows the interviewer what kind of buildings you would like to work on as an architectural engineer. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a building that inspired you or one that you think could use some improvement.

Example: “If I could design any building, I would love to create a new library for my hometown. My hometown has been in need of a new library for years now, and I have always wanted to help them build a better facility. I believe that with my skills as an architectural engineer, I could create a beautiful space where people can learn and read.”

What would you do if you noticed a design flaw in a structure you designed?

This question can help interviewers understand how you respond to challenges and make decisions. Your answer should show that you are willing to take responsibility for your work, even if it’s not perfect.

Example: “If I noticed a flaw in one of my designs, I would first try to determine whether the problem was due to an error on my part or something else. If I made a mistake, I would immediately inform my supervisor so they could address the issue with the client. If the problem wasn’t my fault, I would still let my supervisor know about it so we could fix it as soon as possible.”

How well do you work with clients?

As an architectural engineer, you’ll likely work with clients to ensure they’re happy with the final product. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working with clients and can do so effectively. In your answer, share a few examples of how you’ve worked with clients in the past. Explain that you enjoy collaborating with them and helping them achieve their goals.

Example: “I love working with clients because it’s rewarding to see them be so excited about the project. I always try to meet with them at least once every two weeks to discuss progress on the project. This helps me understand what they want out of the design and ensures they’re satisfied with my work. It also gives me the opportunity to address any concerns or questions they may have.”

Do you have experience presenting your designs to a board of directors?

This question can help interviewers understand how you communicate your ideas to others and whether you have experience presenting in front of a group. Use examples from past experiences where you had to present designs or plans to a board of directors, clients or other groups.

Example: “In my last role as an architectural engineer, I was responsible for creating presentations that would be presented to the client’s board of directors. These meetings were typically held once per month, and I would create a presentation with all of the current projects we were working on. The board members would ask questions about the projects and provide feedback. After each meeting, I would make any necessary changes to our projects based on their feedback.”

When working with a team of engineers, how do you handle constructive criticism?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your interpersonal skills and how you respond to constructive criticism. This can be an important skill for architectural engineers because they often work with other professionals, such as architects or construction managers, who have different perspectives on a project. Your answer should show that you are willing to listen to others’ opinions and consider their feedback when making decisions.

Example: “I find it helpful to meet with my team members individually before meetings so I can understand what concerns they have about the design. Then, during our meeting, I try to incorporate their suggestions into my presentation of the building plans. If I disagree with some of their ideas, I explain why I think those changes would not be beneficial to the project.”

We want to be environmentally friendly. How would you incorporate environmentally friendly design elements into a project?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you approach sustainability in your work. Use examples from past projects to explain how you incorporated environmentally friendly design elements into a project and what impact it had on the final product.

Example: “I always try to incorporate sustainable design principles into my projects, especially when working with clients who are interested in being environmentally friendly. For example, I worked on a residential project where the client wanted to use solar panels for energy. We decided that we would place the solar panels on the roof of the house so they could generate enough power to meet most of the home’s needs. This helped reduce the amount of electricity the family needed to purchase from the grid.”

Describe your process for ensuring a structure’s stability.

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your problem-solving skills and how you apply them to the work you do. In your answer, try to describe a specific process you use for ensuring stability in structures. You can also mention any tools or software programs that help you with this task.

Example: “I start by analyzing the building’s foundation. I look at the soil type, depth of the soil and other factors that could affect the structure’s stability. Then, I calculate the load-bearing capacity of the soil using computer modeling software. This helps me determine whether the soil is strong enough to support the weight of the structure. If not, I will recommend changes to the client so they can make adjustments before construction begins.”

What makes you stand out from other architectural engineers?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your unique skills and abilities. They want to know what makes you a valuable asset to their company. When answering this question, think of two or three things that make you stand out from other architectural engineers. These can be specific skills or experiences that you have. Try to choose things that are relevant to the job description.

Example: “I am an expert in 3D modeling software. I’ve been using it for over five years now, so I’m very familiar with its features. In my previous role, I was responsible for creating models for clients. This meant I had to use several different types of software. I became proficient at learning new programs quickly. I also learned how to troubleshoot issues when they arose. My ability to adapt to new situations has helped me succeed in my career.”

Which software programs do you use most often?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience with architectural engineering software. You can answer this question by naming two or three programs you’re familiar with and briefly describing how they work.

Example: “I use AutoCAD most often, as it’s a program I’m very comfortable using. It allows me to create floor plans, elevations and sections for residential and commercial buildings. I also use MicroStation V8 quite frequently because it helps me design structures that are more complex than those created in AutoCAD. These two programs allow me to complete all my daily tasks at my current job.”

What do you think is the most important aspect of a building’s exterior?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the exterior of buildings. The interviewer may ask you about other aspects of architecture as well, so it’s important to be prepared with answers for all parts of a building. When answering this question, make sure to highlight your understanding of the exterior and how it relates to the rest of the structure.

Example: “I think that the most important aspect of a building’s exterior is its windows. Windows are what allow light into a space, which can have a huge impact on the interior design. I also believe that windows should be aesthetically pleasing while still being functional. In my last role, I worked with an architect who was very particular about the windows in his designs. He would often change the window style multiple times before settling on one he liked.”

How often do you update your professional licenses and certifications?

Employers may ask this question to see if you are committed to your professional development. They want to know that you’re willing to spend time and money on continuing education. In your answer, explain how you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in your field. Share what resources you use to learn about new technologies or regulations.

Example: “I am always looking for ways to improve my skills as an architectural engineer. I have a subscription to several online newsletters and blogs where I can read about the newest innovations in technology. I also take classes at local colleges and universities to keep my certifications current. I find that these methods help me develop my knowledge of the industry while staying ahead of the competition.”

There is a problem with your design that could lead to structural damage. What is your process for addressing this issue?

An interviewer may ask this question to understand how you would respond to a challenging situation. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.

Example: “If I noticed there was a potential structural issue with my design, I would first try to identify the cause of the problem. If it’s something that can be fixed by adjusting one element of the design, then I will do so immediately. However, if it’s an issue that requires me to change multiple aspects of the design, then I will have to go back to my client for approval. Once they approve the changes, I will implement them into the final product.”