17 Outside Plant Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

An outside plant engineer (OP) is responsible for the maintenance and expansion of a telecommunications network. Their job is to ensure that the network is able to handle the demands of current and future customers.

If you’re looking to become an outside plant engineer, you’ll need to be able to answer a variety of outside plant engineer interview questions. This guide will provide you with some of the most common outside plant engineer interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

Are you comfortable working in a factory or industrial setting?

The interviewer may ask this question to determine if you have experience working in a factory or industrial setting. This can be an important factor for employers because outside plant engineers often work in these settings. When answering, it can be helpful to mention any previous experience that you have with industrial or factory settings.

Example: “I am comfortable working in a factory or industrial setting. In my last position as an outside plant engineer, I worked on the construction of new power plants and substations. These projects required me to work in factories and industrial settings quite frequently. I’m used to the noise level and fast pace of these environments.”

What are some of the most common types of industrial equipment you’ve worked with as an outside plant engineer?

The interviewer may ask you this question to learn more about your experience with industrial equipment. This can help them determine if you have the necessary skills and knowledge to work in their company. In your answer, try to list as many types of industrial equipment as possible that you’ve worked with in the past.

Example: “I’ve worked with a variety of industrial equipment throughout my career. I am familiar with working with power line towers, substations, transformers, switchgear, circuit breakers, grounding systems and other electrical components. I also understand how to use various software programs for designing and managing outside plant facilities.”

How would you go about troubleshooting a piece of equipment that’s not working properly?

Outside plant engineers must be able to troubleshoot problems with equipment and other issues that may arise on the job. Your answer should show the interviewer that you have a systematic approach for identifying and resolving issues.

Example: “I would first make sure I understand what’s wrong with the piece of equipment by reading through all the documentation, including manuals and maintenance logs. Then, I would try to identify the problem based on my experience and knowledge of how the equipment is supposed to work. If I can’t figure out the issue myself, I will call in an expert or refer to the manufacturer for help. Once I know what the problem is, I will fix it as quickly as possible so we can get back to normal operations.”

What is your process for inspecting and testing equipment before and after repairs?

The interviewer may ask you this question to understand how you apply your knowledge of equipment and testing procedures. Use your answer to highlight your ability to plan, organize and execute tasks that require attention to detail.

Example: “I always start by reviewing the client’s maintenance schedule for the equipment I’m inspecting or testing. This helps me determine what tests I need to perform and when they should be performed. For example, if a piece of equipment is scheduled for routine inspection every six months, I’ll test it at that time. If there are any issues with the equipment during the first inspection, I’ll make repairs as needed before the next scheduled inspection.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to make a decision about the future of a piece of equipment.

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your decision-making skills and how you apply them in the workplace. Use examples from your past experience that highlight your critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills.

Example: “In my last position as an outside plant engineer, I had to make a decision about whether or not to replace our current fiber optic system with a new one. The company was looking for ways to cut costs while still maintaining high-quality service. After researching several different options, I decided that replacing the fiber optics would be too costly for the company at that time. Instead, we implemented some cost-saving measures like reducing overtime pay and outsourcing some of our equipment repairs.”

If you could choose any piece of equipment to work on, what would it be and why?

This question is a great way to see if you have experience with the specific equipment used in this role. It also helps employers determine whether you would be able to work on their company’s equipment. When answering, try to choose something that your potential employer uses and explain why it interests you.

Example: “I’ve always been fascinated by solar panels. I think they’re an amazing piece of technology that can provide clean energy for homes and businesses. If I could choose any piece of equipment to work on, it would definitely be solar panels. I’m excited about the opportunity to help your company create more efficient solar panels.”

What would you do if you noticed a safety hazard while inspecting equipment?

Employers ask this question to make sure you are aware of your surroundings and the safety precautions you need to take when working on equipment. Use your answer to show that you have a strong sense of responsibility and will always put others’ well-being before your own.

Example: “If I noticed a safety hazard, I would immediately report it to my supervisor so they could address it as soon as possible. If I was able to fix the problem myself, I would do so right away. However, if I needed help from another engineer or technician, I would let them know what was going on and wait for their response.”

How well do you understand the technical aspects of the equipment you repair or install?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your technical knowledge and how you apply it in the field. Use examples from your experience to explain how you use technical information to solve problems or complete tasks.

Example: “I have a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, so I understand the technical aspects of equipment very well. In my last role, I was called out to repair an issue with one of our substation transformers. After inspecting the transformer, I realized that the problem was due to a faulty capacitor. Replacing the capacitor solved the issue, but if I hadn’t understood the technical side of things, I might not have been able to fix the problem as quickly.”

Do you have experience training other engineers or plant workers on how to use or maintain equipment?

Outside plant engineers often train other employees on how to use or maintain equipment. This question helps the interviewer understand your experience training others and whether you have any teaching skills. Use examples from previous jobs where you helped coworkers learn about new technology, software or equipment.

Example: “In my last position as an outside plant engineer, I trained several of my coworkers on how to operate a new piece of equipment we installed in our facility. The company had just purchased this new piece of equipment, so there was no formal training available. Instead, I created a quick training guide that outlined the basic functions of the equipment and provided tips for using it efficiently. My coworkers appreciated having access to this information, and they were able to start working with the equipment more quickly.”

When is it appropriate to call a repair company to fix a piece of equipment?

Outside plant engineers need to know when they can fix a problem themselves and when it’s best to call in outside help. This question helps the interviewer determine how you make these decisions. In your answer, explain what factors you consider when deciding whether or not to call for help.

Example: “I only call repair companies if I’m unable to fix the equipment myself. If I have the parts on hand, I prefer to do the repairs myself so that we don’t spend money unnecessarily. However, there are times when I’ve called for help because I didn’t have the necessary tools or expertise to complete the job.”

We want to improve safety standards for our equipment. What are some of the safety features you would add to our plant?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you can improve safety standards for their company. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to ensure the equipment is safe and secure. You can also mention any certifications or training you have that relates to improving safety standards.

Example: “I would first make sure all of the equipment has a proper grounding system. I would also install an automatic shut-off switch in case there’s ever a power surge. I would also add a lock on the main breaker so no one can access it without permission. Finally, I would train employees on how to use the equipment safely.”

Describe your process for documenting your work and keeping records.

Outside plant engineers must keep detailed records of their work, including the materials they use and how much it costs. This information is important for future maintenance and repairs. An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your organizational skills and attention to detail. In your answer, describe a time when you kept accurate records of your work. Explain that you will do the same in this new role.

Example: “I have always been very organized with my documentation. I find that keeping thorough records helps me remember what I did on each project. It also makes it easier to troubleshoot problems later if something goes wrong. During my last job, I worked on several projects at once. Keeping good records helped me stay organized and ensure all of my projects were moving forward.”

What makes you stand out from other outside plant engineers?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your unique skills and abilities. They want to know what makes you qualified for the position, so they can see if you’re a good fit for their company. When answering this question, think of two or three things that make you stand out from other outside plant engineers. These could be specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with fiber-optic cables, which is something most outside plant engineers don’t have. I also have a background in construction, which means I’m familiar with many different types of equipment and how to use them safely. Finally, I am very detail-oriented, which helps me ensure all my work is accurate.”

Which industries do you have the most experience working in?

Outside plant engineers often work in a variety of industries, so the interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your background. Provide them with a list of industries you have experience working in and explain why you chose those particular industries.

Example: “I’ve worked primarily in the telecommunications industry, but I also have some experience in the energy sector. In my last role as an outside plant engineer, I was responsible for designing and implementing new fiber optic lines for a major telecom company. The company wanted to expand their network capabilities, so they hired me to design a system that would allow them to do so without disrupting current operations.”

What do you think is the most important skill for an outside plant engineer to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine your priorities and how you view the role of an outside plant engineer. Your answer should reflect a strong understanding of what’s required for this job, including technical skills, communication abilities and problem-solving skills.

Example: “I think that the most important skill for an outside plant engineer is their ability to communicate effectively with others. An outside plant engineer needs to be able to clearly explain complex ideas to other engineers and technicians so they understand exactly what needs to be done. They also need to be able to listen carefully to instructions from supervisors or managers and relay them accurately to the rest of the team.”

How often do you perform routine maintenance on equipment?

Outside plant engineers often perform routine maintenance on equipment to ensure it’s in good working order. This question helps the interviewer determine how much experience you have with this type of work and whether you’re comfortable doing it. Use your answer to highlight your comfort level with performing routine maintenance and any specific skills you have for maintaining outside plant equipment.

Example: “I typically perform routine maintenance on equipment once a month or after I’ve worked on a project that requires repairs. During my last job, I performed routine maintenance on all of our equipment every two weeks because we had so many projects going at once. I enjoy performing routine maintenance because it gives me an opportunity to check up on all of the equipment and make sure everything is running smoothly.”

There is a piece of equipment that needs to be repaired, but you don’t have the parts to fix it. What is your process for deciding whether or not to go ahead with the repair?

An interviewer may ask this question to understand how you make decisions in the field. Your answer should show that you can think critically and use your judgment when making important choices.

Example: “If I don’t have all of the parts needed for a repair, I would first try to find an alternative piece of equipment that could do the same job as the one needing repair. If there isn’t another piece of equipment available, then I would consider if it is worth repairing or replacing the equipment. For example, if the equipment is only slightly damaged, but still works well, I might decide to fix it rather than replace it. However, if the equipment is completely broken, I would probably go ahead with the replacement.”