20 Arup Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to interviewing for a job at Arup, you can expect to be asked questions that assess your skills and experience in designing, planning, engineering, and technical specialist work. While some questions may be general in nature, others will be specific to the role you’re interviewing for.

No matter what position you’re interviewing for, it’s important to be prepared to answer both types of questions. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of sample Arup interview questions and answers that you can use to develop your own responses.

Arup Interview Process

The interview process at Arup can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most positions will require at least one face-to-face interview, as well as an online assessment center. For some positions, you may also be required to do a case study or technical exercise. Overall, the interview process is fairly long and rigorous, but this is to ensure that they find the best candidate for the job.

1. Tell us about a project you have worked on that has a sustainable design element.

Arup is a leader in sustainable design, and the company wants to know that you have experience with this type of work. When answering this question, highlight your knowledge of sustainability and how it relates to engineering projects.

Example: “I worked on a project for a local school district where we were tasked with creating an outdoor learning space for students. We wanted to create a space that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing while also being environmentally friendly. I researched different types of plants that would be able to withstand harsh weather conditions and still thrive in the area. The result was a beautiful garden-like setting that provided plenty of shade and seating areas for students.”

2. What are your thoughts on the current state of sustainability?

Arup is a leader in the field of sustainability, and your answer to this question will show that you are familiar with their work. In your response, explain how you would apply Arups’ expertise to help clients achieve sustainable goals.

Example: “I believe that we’re at an exciting time for sustainability. There’s more awareness than ever about the importance of protecting our environment, which has led to many companies making strides toward becoming more environmentally friendly. However, I think there’s still room for improvement. For example, I recently read an article about how some companies are using recycled materials but then shipping them overseas to be processed again. This seems like a waste of resources when they could just use local facilities.”

3. How would you describe your approach to problem solving?

Arup is a company that works on complex projects, so the interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your problem-solving skills. Use examples from previous work experience or school projects to show how you approach solving problems and make decisions.

Example: “I take an analytical approach to problem solving by first identifying all of the factors involved in the situation. I then consider each factor individually before considering them as a whole. This helps me understand the entire scope of the problem and find solutions that address multiple aspects of it. In my last role, I worked with a team to solve a complex issue with a client’s website. We used our individual expertise to identify the problem and then discussed different approaches we could use to fix it.”

4. Do you feel comfortable working in teams or independently?

Arup is a company that values teamwork and collaboration. They want to know if you’re willing to work with others in order to achieve the best results for their clients. Your answer should show them that you understand how important it is to collaborate with your team members.

Example: “I have always been someone who prefers working independently, but I’ve learned over time that there are benefits to collaborating with my colleagues. For example, when I was designing a new building, I had an idea of what I wanted to do, but one of my colleagues suggested something different that ended up being much better than what I had originally planned. Collaborating with my team has helped me learn more about design and engineering.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to deal with conflict, how did you handle it?

Arup is looking for candidates who can work well with others and resolve conflicts. Your answer should show that you are able to communicate effectively, solve problems and collaborate with others.

Example: “I once had a conflict with my manager over the design of a building project. I was working on a new hospital construction when my manager asked me to change some aspects of the design. I disagreed with him because I felt like he didn’t understand how important those changes were to the overall structure of the building. We met in his office to discuss it further, and I explained why I thought the changes would be detrimental to the final product. He understood my reasoning and agreed to leave the design as-is.”

6. What is a technical skill you are proud of and why?

Arup is a highly technical firm, so it’s important to show that you have the skills and knowledge necessary for this role. When answering this question, try to identify a skill you’ve developed over time and explain how it has helped you in your career.

Example: “I am proud of my ability to learn new software programs quickly. I started out as an engineer, but I also work with architects on projects. In order to communicate effectively with both parties, I had to learn several different types of software. Now, I can use most major design programs, which allows me to be more efficient at work.”

7. We strive to be innovative here at Arup. What do you think is important to remember when trying to innovate?

This question can help the interviewer get a better sense of your thoughts on innovation and how you might apply them to their company. Use examples from your past experience that show you understand what it takes to innovate and create new ideas.

Example: “In my previous role, I was tasked with coming up with an innovative solution for our client’s problem. We had been working with this client for years, so we knew exactly what they were looking for in terms of design. However, we also wanted to come up with something new and exciting that would impress our client.

I thought about what made our firm unique and came up with a plan to incorporate some of those elements into our design. This helped us come up with a more creative and interesting solution that impressed our client.”

8. Why do you want to work for Arup?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand why you are interested in working for their company. It’s important to show that you have done your research on Arup, its values and what it offers employees.

Example: “I want to work for Arup because of its reputation as a leader in innovation and design. I am passionate about architecture and engineering, and I believe that Arup is one of the best firms in the industry. I also appreciate how much Arup cares about its employees’ well-being and professional development. I would love to be part of this team.”

9. Describe a time when you saw an issue with a product/service and took action to fix it.

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your problem-solving skills and how you react to challenges. Use examples from previous work or school projects that show your ability to identify issues, gather information and make decisions.

Example: “In my last internship at a software company, I noticed that some of our customers were having trouble using one of our products. I spoke with several team members who worked on the product and learned that there was an issue with the user interface. The team had already fixed most of the bugs in the program but hadn’t updated the user manual to reflect those changes. I suggested we update the manual so customers could use the product correctly.”

10. What is your experience working with engineers from other disciplines?

Arup is a firm that works with many different types of engineers, so the interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your ability to collaborate and communicate with others. Your answer should show that you are able to work well with people from other backgrounds and can share information effectively.

Example: “In my previous role as an engineer, I worked on projects where we had multiple teams working together. I was responsible for communicating project updates to all of the engineering staff, which helped me develop my skills in collaborating with other disciplines. I also learned how important it is to understand the roles of each discipline within a project.”

11. What are some examples of projects you have been involved with that relate to structural engineering?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer your knowledge of structural engineering and how it applies to projects. You can use examples from your previous work experience or discuss a project you would like to be involved with if you are applying for an internship.

Example: “I have worked on several residential projects that required structural engineering, including one where I designed a new foundation for a home that was sinking into the ground due to erosion. Another example is when I helped design a bridge over a river that needed to support heavy traffic while also being aesthetically pleasing.”

12. Give us an example of a time where you were not able to meet a deadline, what did you learn from this situation?

Arup is looking for candidates who are able to meet deadlines and expectations. This question allows you to show your ability to learn from mistakes, which can be an important skill in the workplace.

Example: “In my last position as a civil engineer, I was working on a project that required me to submit weekly reports to my supervisor. One week, I forgot to send my report by the deadline. My supervisor called me into their office where they informed me of this mistake. They also told me that if it happened again, I would be fired. After this meeting, I learned how to better manage my time so that I could avoid missing future deadlines.”

13. If hired, what type of project would excite you most?

This question helps the interviewer get a sense of your interests and passions. It also allows them to gauge whether you would be a good fit for their company culture. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something that is relevant to Arup’s current projects or recent work.

Example: “I am passionate about sustainable design, so I would love to work on a project that focuses on renewable energy sources. I have experience with solar power systems and other green technologies, so I think I could bring some valuable insight to such a project.”

14. Have you ever considered designing buildings sustainably?

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the company’s values and how you can contribute. If you have experience with sustainable design, share it in your answer. If not, talk about what you would do if faced with this challenge.

Example: “I’ve always been interested in environmentally friendly construction. In my last job, I worked on a project that was focused on sustainability. We used recycled materials for the exterior and interior of the building and installed solar panels to generate electricity. It was an exciting project to work on because we were able to create something beautiful while also being responsible stewards of the environment.”

15. Which aspect of engineering are you most interested in?

This question helps the interviewer determine if your interests align with Arup’s services. It also allows them to understand what you value in a job and how you might fit into their company culture. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention an aspect of engineering that is unique or interesting to you.

Example: “I am most interested in structural engineering because I find it fascinating how engineers are able to design buildings that are both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. I have always been intrigued by the way structures interact with each other and the environment around them.”

16. What does good teamwork mean to you?

Arup is a collaborative firm, so the interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your teamwork skills. Use examples from past experiences where you’ve worked well with others and helped achieve a goal or project deadline.

Example: “In my last position as an engineer, I was part of a team that designed a new building for a client. We had a tight deadline, but we were able to work together to solve problems and complete our tasks on time. In fact, we finished ahead of schedule, which allowed us to make some improvements to the design before presenting it to the client.”

17. What do you know about our company culture?

Arup is a unique company with a culture that values innovation, collaboration and creativity. The interviewer wants to know if you have done your research on the company’s culture and are prepared to fit in.

Example: “I’ve read about Arup’s unique culture of ‘designing for life’ and how it has led to many innovative projects over the years. I am excited to be part of this forward-thinking team and look forward to contributing my own ideas to help solve complex problems. I also understand that Arup places great emphasis on employee development and training, which is why I am eager to join the firm.”

18. What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and interests. They want to make sure you’ll fit in with their team, so they may also be looking for commonalities between you and the other employees. In your answer, try to mention something that shows a unique part of your personality or interests.

Example: “I love playing sports, especially basketball. I play on a co-ed league every week, and it’s one of my favorite ways to unwind after work. It’s great exercise, but it’s also fun to get together with friends and compete.”

19. What kind of software do you have experience using?

Arup uses a variety of software programs to complete projects. The interviewer wants to know if you have experience using the same or similar programs and how quickly you can learn new ones.

Example: “I’ve used AutoCAD, Revit and Navisworks in my previous roles. I’m comfortable learning new software as needed, so I would be ready to use any program Arup uses.”

20. What makes you stand out from other candidates?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their company. To answer, think of a few things that make you unique or what skills you have that will help you succeed in the role.

Example: “I am an excellent communicator with strong interpersonal skills. I also have five years of experience working as a civil engineer, which makes me highly qualified for this position. My education and work experience give me the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in this role.”