20 Atkins Interview Questions and Answers

As one of the world’s leading engineering design consultancies, Atkins is no stranger to complex projects. From the Crossrail tunnels beneath London to the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, Atkins’ engineers have helped to shape some of the most iconic infrastructure projects of our time.

If you’re hoping to land a job at Atkins, you can expect to face some tough interview questions. In this article, we’ll give you a taste of the kinds of questions you might be asked, along with some example answers to help you prepare.

Atkins Interview Process

The interview process at Atkins can vary depending on the position you are applying for. Generally, the process begins with an online assessment, followed by a phone interview and then a technical assessment. If you pass the technical assessment, you will be invited to an assessment centre. The assessment centre will include a series of interviews and group tasks. Finally, you will meet with the practice lead who will ask you about your salary expectations.

1. Are you comfortable with meeting and discussing projects with clients?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with clients and how comfortable you are in that role. If you’re interviewing for a position where you’ll be meeting with clients, it’s important to show your comfort level with this process.

Example: “I enjoy meeting with clients because I find it helpful to get their input on projects. It helps me understand what they want from our work and gives them an opportunity to ask questions about the project or my background. In my last position, I met with clients once a week to discuss ongoing projects. This helped keep the client informed of progress and ensured we were always meeting deadlines.”

2. What is your experience with AutoCAD software?

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design and drafting software that many architecture firms use. If you have experience with AutoCAD, explain how it has helped you in your previous roles.

Example: “I’ve used AutoCAD for the past five years at my current job. I started out as an intern architect where I was responsible for creating floor plans, elevations and sections of buildings using AutoCAD. As I gained more experience, I became a junior architect where I had to create detailed drawings of building structures and interior designs. Now, I’m a senior architect where I am responsible for leading projects from start to finish.”

3. How would you approach a client who was not happy with the work we did for them?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and criticism. It’s important to show that you’re willing to take responsibility for your work, even if it wasn’t up to the client’s standards.

Example: “I would first ask them what they didn’t like about our design or construction plans. I’d then explain why we made those decisions and offer to make any changes to their satisfaction. If they still weren’t happy with the results, I would apologize and offer a partial refund.”

4. Tell us about a time when you had to make a decision in a short amount of time, how did you handle that situation?

When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide an example of a time when you had to make a decision quickly and how that helped your team or company.

Example: “In my last position as a project manager for a construction firm, I was working on a project where we were behind schedule due to inclement weather. The client wanted to know why the project wasn’t moving forward despite our best efforts. I explained to them that we couldn’t work in the rain but assured them that once the weather cleared up, we would get back to work.”

5. Do you have any experience working on construction sites?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to assess your experience working in a fast-paced environment. Construction sites are often busy and require employees to work quickly, so it’s important that you have some construction site experience if possible.

Example: “I do not have any direct construction site experience, but I did work on a project where we had to build a new wing of a hospital. We were under a tight deadline, so I was able to learn how to work efficiently while still being safe. I also worked with several subcontractors who helped me understand what it’s like to work on a construction site.”

6. Can you tell me about a time when you worked well under pressure?

This question is a great way to assess your ability to handle stress and pressure. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific time when you were able to work well under pressure and the positive outcome of that situation.

Example: “In my last position as an engineer, I was working on a project with a tight deadline. The client wanted to see progress every week, but we had some setbacks in our design process. I knew that if I didn’t meet the deadlines, there would be consequences for the company. So, I worked late nights and weekends to ensure that I met all of the deadlines. In the end, I completed the project ahead of schedule.”

7. What do you find most interesting about engineering?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand what motivates you. It also helps them determine if your interests align with those of Atkins. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific project or experience that inspired you to pursue engineering as a career.

Example: “I find most interesting about engineering how many different disciplines it involves. I love solving problems and figuring out creative solutions, so I think it’s fascinating how engineers have to consider so many factors when designing something new. For example, in my last job, we were tasked with creating a more efficient way for our client to transport their products from one warehouse to another. We had to take into account things like cost, safety and durability.”

8. Why should we hire you over other candidates?

This question is a great opportunity to show your confidence and enthusiasm for the position. When answering this question, it can be helpful to highlight any skills or experiences that are directly related to the job description.

Example: “I am confident I would make an excellent addition to the team because of my extensive knowledge of Atkins’ services and products. In fact, I have been using their software since college, so I know how to use all of its features. I also understand the importance of customer service in engineering projects, which is why I always strive to exceed expectations.”

9. Do you have previous experience in consulting?

This question is a great way to gauge your experience level and how you can apply it to the position. If you have no prior experience, explain what other types of consulting you’ve done in the past.

Example: “I haven’t had any formal training or education in architecture or engineering, but I do have some experience with construction projects. In my last job as an office manager for a small business, we were tasked with building our own offices. We hired a contractor who worked with us on designing the space and finding materials that fit within our budget. It was a lot of work, but I learned a lot about project management and communication.”

10. In what areas are you looking to grow within Atkins?

This question is a great way to show your ambition and desire for growth. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention an area of the company you are passionate about or have experience in.

Example: “I am looking to grow my career as a civil engineer within Atkins. I’ve been working toward becoming a licensed professional engineer since graduating college, and I’m excited to use my skills to help clients around the world. In fact, I was recently accepted into the American Society of Civil Engineers, which means I will soon be able to work on projects in the United States.”

11. We are a firm that emphasizes collaboration and teamwork, how does this align with your own values?

This question is an opportunity to show your ability to work with others and collaborate on projects. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a time when you worked well with others or helped a team member succeed.

Example: “I believe that teamwork and collaboration are essential for success in the workplace. I have always strived to help my coworkers succeed by offering support and advice when needed. In my last position as a project manager, I noticed one of my team members was having trouble completing their tasks on time. I offered to help them complete their assignments so they could focus on other aspects of the job.”

12. Describe some of the challenges you may come across as an engineer.

This question is a great way to see how you handle challenges. It’s important for employers to know that you can overcome obstacles and still complete your work effectively.

Example: “I once worked on a project where the client wanted us to design a building with a specific amount of square footage, but they didn’t want to spend more than $100 per square foot. This was a challenge because it meant we had to find ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality or safety. We ended up using less expensive materials in some areas of the building and finding creative solutions to make sure the structure could support itself.”

13. Give an example of a project where you had to explain technical concepts to someone without an engineering background.

This question is a great way to show your communication skills and how you can break down complex ideas into simple terms. When answering this question, it’s important to remember that the person interviewing you may not have an engineering background themselves. Try to use examples of projects where you had to explain technical concepts to non-engineers in a way they could understand.

Example: “In my last position as a civil engineer, I worked on several large construction projects. One project required me to work with a team of architects who didn’t have any engineering experience. In order to ensure everyone was on the same page, I created a detailed outline of what each phase of the project would entail. This allowed the architects to see exactly what we were doing and when we expected to complete each task.”

14. What type of environment do you like to work in?

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your personality and how you might fit in with their company culture. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something specific about the environment that you’re describing so the interviewer can picture what you’re talking about.

Example: “I like working in an open office space where I can collaborate with my coworkers. I find that having access to other people’s ideas and knowledge helps me come up with creative solutions to problems. In my last position, we had cubicles but also shared desks where two or three people could work together on projects.”

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

This question is a great way to show the interviewer your passion for engineering. It also helps them understand what you’re most qualified for and which position would be best for you. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight your knowledge of the field and why you’re passionate about it.

Example: “I’m most interested in civil engineering because I love working with people and helping them build their communities. In my last job, I helped design a new community center that was built on top of an old landfill site. The project took several years to complete but was well worth it when we opened the doors to the public.”

16. Have you ever had a disagreement with a manager or fellow team member, how did you handle it?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your conflict resolution skills. This is an opportunity to show that you can be honest and respectful when addressing a disagreement with a colleague or manager.

Example: “I once had a disagreement with my team lead over the best way to complete a project. I spoke with her privately, explained why I thought our approach was better than hers and asked for her input on how we could improve it. She agreed with me and we worked together to create a plan that satisfied both of us.”

17. What are some ways engineers can continue to develop their skills after they graduate?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have a plan for continuing your education and developing your skills as an engineer. In your answer, explain how you would continue learning throughout your career. You can also mention any certifications or training programs you’ve completed in the past that helped you develop your engineering skills.

Example: “I believe engineers should always be looking for ways to improve their skills. I am currently enrolled in a professional development program through my university where we meet once a month to discuss different topics related to our field. We also complete assignments each month that help us apply what we learn in class to real-world situations. This program has been very helpful in preparing me for the working world.”

18. Would you consider yourself more tech savvy or people savvy?

This question is a great way to determine how you would fit into the company culture. If your interviewer asks this, they are likely trying to see if you will be able to work well with others and collaborate on projects. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention one or two specific examples of when you used both tech savvy and people savvy skills in a professional setting.

Example: “I consider myself more tech savvy than people savvy. I am always looking for new ways to use technology to make my job easier and help me complete tasks more efficiently. However, I also think that being people savvy is important because it allows me to connect with coworkers and clients better.”

19. When talking to a client, what are some things you need to keep in mind?

This question is a great way to see how you interact with clients and what your priorities are. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention some of the most important things you would do when talking to a client.

Example: “When speaking with a client, I always make sure that they understand everything we’re doing for them. I also try to answer any questions or concerns they have about our work. It’s important to me that my clients feel comfortable with us and know that we will take care of their needs.”

20. What is one thing you would change if you were hired by Atkins?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your ability to think critically and creatively. Your answer should show that you can use your critical thinking skills to improve processes, but it should also be respectful of the company’s culture and values.

Example: “I would change the amount of time we spend on projects with little return. I understand that sometimes this is necessary, but I believe there are ways to streamline our process so we can get more work done in less time. This will allow us to complete more projects each year, which will increase revenue.”