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How to Prepare for a Technical Engineering Interview

on November 6, 2020 in Engineering Candidates

 

As part of the hiring process, many engineering firms and public agencies will incorporate a technical interview where you will be asked to solve specific problems or complete specific assignments. These can often feel more like exams, so it’s important to prepare well for a technical engineering interview.  

Use These Tips to Prepare for a Technical Engineering Interview

Study The Company 

Go over all of the research you’ve done on the company and make sure you have a strong grasp of the types of projects they work on. The technical interview will likely have much to do with the type of work that the firm or agency specifically tackles.  

Have A Plan For The Technical Engineering Interview  

Prior to the interview, work out a plan for how you want to market yourself and the key things you want to convey during your technical interview. Also, create a list of at least five projects you are proud of and review the process you took for each of those projects.  

Brush Up On New Trends  

Make sure you have a good feel for the latest trends and best practices in your particular field of engineering.  

Get Comfortable Talking Through Your Process  

During a technical interview, the hiring manager or team will watch you as you solve problems, but it’s very important to talk through each step you take, noting why you took that step. Don’t worry whether your process aligns with their process, the point is to demonstrate how you work through problems. Interviewers want to know that you take a logical approach, and they want to see how creative you are at solving challenges.  

This may require practice. Research common problems in your field and work through them at home, practicing speaking out loud. It may feel awkward, but the more practice you have, the more natural it will feel.  

Don’t Be Afraid To Speak Up 

Do not be afraid to ask clarifying questions before tackling a problem. First and foremost, you need to be clear on the problem before you can develop a solution. Second, some interviewers may purposely leave out details to see whether you are a person who asks questions and gathers all the necessary information and data before working. Never, ever be afraid to ask for more information.  

It’s also important to admit if you get stuck. Good interviewers can spot a bluff a mile away. Don’t panic and don’t fudge your work. Be honest that you don’t know or have hit a wall and explain the process you would take on the job if you got stuck on a problem. This shows the interviewer you aren’t afraid to ask for help or seek advice from others when you don’t know something.  

Are You Searching For Engineering Jobs?  

If you are looking for a new engineering job and are ready to partner with an expert recruiter, search our current engineering job openings or contact PEAK Technical Staffing today to learn how we can help you achieve your goals.  

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