20 POWER Engineers Interview Questions and Answers

POWER Engineers is a global consulting engineering firm specializing in the delivery of integrated solutions in a wide range of industries. POWER Engineers is headquartered in Hailey, Idaho, with offices located throughout the United States and Canada.

If you’re hoping to land a job at POWER Engineers, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your qualifications, work history, and availability. In this guide, we’ve assembled a list of POWER Engineers interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

POWER Engineers Interview Process

The interview process at POWER Engineers is lengthy, and can be difficult for some perspective employees. The process usually starts with a phone screening from a recruiter, followed by an in-person panel interview. From there, candidates may have to complete a CAD test, and finally, an offer is extended.

1. What is your experience with power distribution and transmission?

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience with power distribution and transmission, two important aspects of a POWER engineer’s job. Use your answer to highlight any previous projects that involved these processes and how you completed them successfully.

Example: “In my last position as a POWER engineer, I was responsible for overseeing all power distribution and transmission systems in our facility. This included monitoring the current flow from the generators to the substations and then to the buildings where it would be used. I also had to make sure that the voltage levels were within acceptable ranges at all times. In one instance, we experienced an outage due to a faulty wire connection. I worked with other engineers to fix the issue so we could restore power to the entire facility.”

2. How would you describe the difference between primary and secondary voltage systems?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of power systems and how they work. It also shows the interviewer that you can apply what you know about power systems to real-world situations. In your answer, try to explain the difference between primary and secondary voltage systems in simple terms.

Example: “Primary voltage systems are usually high-voltage transmission lines that carry electricity from large generating stations to substations where it’s converted into lower voltages for distribution. Secondary voltage systems are low-voltage distribution lines that carry electricity from substations to homes and businesses. The main difference between these two types of systems is that primary voltage systems are designed to transmit electricity over long distances while secondary voltage systems are designed to distribute electricity over shorter distances.”

3. Describe a time when you had to deal with conflict in a team setting, how did you handle it?

When working in a team, it’s important to be able to resolve conflict. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the ability to work with others and solve problems effectively. In your answer, explain how you used your problem-solving skills to help your team come up with a solution.

Example: “In my last position, I was part of a large project team that included engineers, architects and construction managers. We were all working on different aspects of the same building, so we had to communicate often. One day, one of the construction managers told me they needed more materials for the job site. I knew our budget wouldn’t allow for additional supplies, but I also didn’t want to delay the project. So, I called a meeting with everyone involved to discuss the issue.

I explained that there wasn’t enough money to buy more supplies, but we could find ways to use what we already had. The construction manager agreed to look at other options before asking for more materials again. After some brainstorming, we found ways to reuse materials from the job site to save money.”

4. Tell me about a project that didn’t go as planned, what went wrong and how did you manage it?

This question is a great way to see how you respond to challenges and learn more about your problem-solving skills. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a time when you overcame a challenge or faced a setback and were able to use your skills to solve the issue.

Example: “In my last position as an engineer, I was working on a project that required me to create a new power grid for a small town. The project was going well until we lost one of our main engineers due to illness. I had to take over his responsibilities while also managing my own tasks. It took some extra work, but I managed to get everything done by the deadline.”

5. What do you think are some of the biggest challenges facing the electrical engineering industry today?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you as a person and how you approach challenges. It also helps them understand your knowledge of the industry. Your answer should include two or three points that highlight your critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities and awareness of current issues in the electrical engineering field.

Example: “I think one of the biggest challenges facing the electrical engineering industry today is finding qualified engineers. There are many jobs available but not enough people with the right qualifications to fill them. I believe this is due to a lack of interest in STEM subjects among young people. If we want to ensure there are enough qualified professionals for the future, we need to start encouraging more students to pursue careers in these fields.”

6. Can you tell us about a time where you had to take initiative on a project?

This question can help the interviewer get an idea of your leadership skills and how you handle projects on your own. Use examples from your previous experience to highlight your ability to take initiative, solve problems and work independently.

Example: “In my last position as a power engineer, I was tasked with designing a new system for our company’s data center. The project required me to create a plan that would increase energy efficiency while also reducing costs. After researching different options, I decided to implement solar panels into the design. This change helped us reduce our monthly electric bill by 30%. It also saved the company thousands of dollars each year.”

7. Do you have any experience working with renewable energy sources?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with a specific type of energy. If your previous work experience doesn’t include renewable energy, you can explain what types of energy sources you’re familiar with and how you would apply that knowledge to this role.

Example: “I’ve worked with both solar and wind power in my last two roles. In my most recent position, I was responsible for designing a new system that could integrate both forms of energy into one grid. This helped me understand the different components needed to create an effective system that’s compatible with multiple energy sources.”

8. What is your experience with designing power substations?

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience with a specific type of engineering. When answering, it can be helpful to mention any unique projects you’ve worked on and how they helped develop your skills as an engineer.

Example: “I have extensive experience designing power substations for both commercial and residential use. In my last position, I was responsible for creating plans for new substation construction and also helping existing substations become more efficient. One project I worked on involved redesigning a large substation that serviced several buildings in a corporate park. The goal was to reduce energy costs while still providing enough electricity to all of the buildings.”

9. Have you ever worked remotely before?

Working remotely is a common practice for many companies, and the interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience with it. If you have worked remotely in the past, explain how your previous employer handled it. If you haven’t worked remotely before, you can answer by explaining that you are open to doing so.

Example: “I’ve never worked remotely before, but I am open to it. In my last position, we had an office where everyone would come together to work on projects. However, I think working remotely could be beneficial because it allows me to focus more on my work without distractions.”

10. Are you comfortable working independently or do you prefer to work in teams?

This question helps the interviewer determine how you will fit into their organization. Your answer should show that you are a self-starter who can work independently, but also enjoy collaborating with others.

Example: “I am comfortable working on my own and I have done so for most of my career. However, I find that collaboration is an important part of engineering because it allows me to learn from other engineers’ perspectives and ideas. Collaboration is especially helpful when solving complex problems or developing new solutions. In my current role, I collaborate with two other engineers to solve issues and develop new projects.”

11. Give an example of a time when you were able to effectively communicate with another person even when there was a significant difference in personality.

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your communication skills and how you interact with others. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of when you were able to work well with someone who had different opinions or ideas than you did.

Example: “In my last position as an engineer, I worked closely with a project manager who was very organized and detail-oriented. While I am also organized and like to have all the details before starting a project, I prefer to start working on a project by developing a general outline and then filling in the details later. The project manager preferred to know every detail about a project before we started working on it. We found that if I provided her with a detailed outline for each project, she would provide me with additional information and feedback so I could adjust my plans accordingly.”

12. If hired, which aspect of electrical engineering interests you most?

This question helps employers understand your interests and motivations for pursuing a career in electrical engineering. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention an aspect of the job that you are passionate about or excited to learn more about.

Example: “I am most interested in working with power plants because I find them fascinating. The way they generate electricity is so complex but also very interesting. I would love to work on projects that help improve efficiency at these facilities.”

13. How would you describe your leadership style?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would lead a team of power engineers. Your leadership style is unique to you, so it’s important to be honest about your approach and what motivates you.

Example: “I believe in being an empathetic leader who listens to my team members. I think that by listening to everyone on my team, I can understand their needs and concerns. This helps me make decisions that benefit the entire team rather than just myself or one individual. In addition, I try to empower my team members to take ownership of projects and tasks so they feel confident in their abilities.”

14. What do you know about POWER Engineers mission statement?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the company’s mission statement. It also shows that you have an understanding of what the company does and how it operates. When answering this question, make sure to include the entire mission statement in your response.

Example: “The POWER Engineers mission statement is ‘To provide our clients with innovative solutions for their power needs.’ I believe this statement reflects the company’s commitment to providing quality service to its customers. As a POWER Engineer, I would strive to meet the needs of my clients by offering them innovative solutions to their power problems.”

15. What is your experience with computer-aided design software?

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience level with a variety of software programs. It’s important to show that you have some experience using this type of program, but it’s also beneficial to mention which ones you’re most comfortable using and why.

Example: “I’ve used several different types of computer-aided design software in my previous roles. I’m most experienced with AutoCAD, however, as I worked on projects where we needed to use it for its 3D modeling capabilities. I also have experience with Solid Edge, Creo and NX Power Module.”

16. We are looking for someone who can adapt quickly to changing situations. Can you give an example of a time when you had to change plans last minute?

This question is an opportunity to show your ability to adapt and problem-solve. When answering this question, it can be helpful to highlight a specific example of how you handled the situation and what steps you took to ensure that the project was still completed on time.

Example: “In my previous role as a power engineer, I had been working on a plan for several weeks to upgrade our current system. However, when I presented the plan to management, they decided they wanted to implement some of the upgrades sooner than expected. I worked with my team to create a new timeline for the project and we were able to complete all of the changes within the original deadline.”

17. What type of work environment allows you to be the most productive?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you might fit in with their team. They want to make sure that you will be happy working for them, so they are looking for answers that show you have the same values as their company. When answering this question, try to focus on what type of work environment makes you feel good while also mentioning any specific details about the job or company that appeal to you.

Example: “I am happiest when I can work independently without too much oversight. I find that I am able to get a lot done when I don’t have to wait for someone else’s approval before moving forward with my projects. I also really enjoy working in teams because it allows me to bounce ideas off other people and learn from their perspectives.”

18. Do you have any experience developing reports?

POWER engineers often create reports that include information about the power grid. These reports are important for informing decision-makers and other stakeholders about the current state of the grid, which can help them make improvements to it. Your answer should show the interviewer that you understand how these reports are used in your field.

Example: “I have worked on several projects where I was responsible for creating reports. In my last position, I created a report every month detailing the status of our power grid. The report included data like voltage levels, frequency levels and more. This helped me communicate with my team members and managers about what we were doing to improve the grid.”

19. Tell me about a time when you used logic to solve a problem.

This question can help the interviewer determine your problem-solving skills and how you apply them to your work. Use examples from previous jobs that show your ability to analyze a situation, gather information and make decisions based on facts.

Example: “At my last job, I was working with a team of engineers to create a new power grid for an entire city. We were having trouble finding enough space to build all the necessary equipment because of budget constraints. So, we decided to use existing infrastructure instead of building everything new. Using logic, I determined that many buildings in the city already had backup generators, so it would be more cost-effective to connect our system to those generators than to build new ones.”

20. Why should we hire you?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and why you are the best candidate for the job. When answering, make sure to highlight your skills and experience that match what they’re looking for in a candidate. You can also mention any unique or special qualities that might set you apart from other candidates.

Example: “I am an extremely hard worker who is always willing to go above and beyond to get the job done. I have excellent communication skills and am able to work well with others. My attention to detail makes me a great problem solver, and my ability to think critically helps me find solutions to complex problems. I would be honored to join your team.”