McDermott International Structural Designer Interview Questions and Answers

I have over 10 years of experience in structural design, working on various projects including commercial buildings, bridges, and industrial facilities.

• Designed structural systems for commercial buildings, ensuring safety and compliance with building codes

• Managed the structural design of bridge projects, coordinating with architects and engineers

• Worked on the design of industrial facilities, focusing on structural inte...read more

Static analysis deals with loads that do not change over time, while dynamic analysis considers loads that vary with time.

• Static analysis is used to determine the effects of loads that do not change over time, such as dead loads and live loads.

• Dynamic analysis considers loads that vary with time, such as wind loads, seismic loads, and vibrations.

• Static analysis is simpler and less computationally intensive compared to ...read more

Spectral fatigue analysis is performed by calculating the stress response of a structure to dynamic loads over a range of frequencies.

• Determine the dynamic loads acting on the structure

• Calculate the stress response of the structure using spectral methods

• Analyze the stress response at different frequencies to assess fatigue damage

• Consider factors such as material properties, load history, and environmental conditions

• Use...read more

I prioritize transparency, disclose the conflict, and recuse myself if necessary.

• Prioritize transparency and disclose the conflict to all parties involved

• Evaluate the situation and determine if recusal is necessary

• Seek guidance from a supervisor or ethics committee if unsure how to proceed

My notice period is currently one month.

• Notice period is one month

• I am required to give one month notice before leaving my current position

• I can start a new position after one month

Fixed connection does not allow rotation at the base plate, while pinned connection allows rotation.

• Fixed connection is rigid and does not allow rotation at the base plate.

• Pinned connection allows rotation at the base plate.

• Fixed connection provides more stability and resistance to lateral forces.

• Pinned connection is more flexible and allows for some movement.

• Examples: Fixed connection is commonly used in high-rise bui...read more

The rise is the vertical distance between two consecutive steps, while the tread is the horizontal distance.

• The rise is typically around 7-8 inches, while the tread is usually around 10-11 inches.

• The rise and tread dimensions are important for ensuring safe and comfortable stair design.

• Building codes often dictate the minimum and maximum rise and tread dimensions for safety reasons.

Pitch distance in bolt refers to the distance between the centers of adjacent bolts in a bolted connection.

• Pitch distance is typically measured from the center of one bolt to the center of the next bolt in a row.

• It is important to maintain consistent pitch distances to ensure proper load distribution and structural integrity.

• For example, in a bolted connection with a pitch distance of 2 inches, the centers of adjacent

To create a pipe rack section on both directions.

• Identify the location and dimensions for the pipe rack section

• Consider the load requirements and support structures

• Design the pipe rack section using appropriate materials and connections

• Ensure proper spacing and alignment for pipes in both directions

Yes, I have extensive experience with basements and below ground structures.

• I have designed and analyzed numerous basements for residential and commercial buildings.

• I am familiar with waterproofing techniques and soil mechanics related to below ground structures.

• I have experience with retaining walls, foundations, and underground parking structures.

• I have worked on projects involving deep excavations and shoring system...read more

Copy monitor in Autodesk Revit is a tool used to monitor changes in linked models and synchronize them with the current model.

• Copy monitor allows users to track changes in linked models and update them in the current model.

• It helps maintain consistency between different models in a project.

• Users can easily identify and resolve conflicts or discrepancies between linked models.

• Copy monitor can be used for elements like g

Shared parameter is a parameter that can be used across multiple elements in a project.

• Shared parameters allow for consistent data across different elements in a project.

• They can be created and managed in software like Revit for BIM projects.

• Examples include shared parameters for material types, cost estimates, or project phases.

Import CAD brings a copy of the CAD file into the current project, while Link CAD creates a reference to the original CAD file.

• Import CAD creates a duplicate of the CAD file within the project, increasing file size.

• Link CAD maintains a connection to the original CAD file, allowing for real-time updates.

• Changes made to the original CAD file will reflect in the linked CAD file, but not in the imported CAD file.

• Import CAD...read more

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building.

• BIM is a collaborative process that allows multiple stakeholders to work together on a building project.

• It involves creating and managing digital representations of the physical and functional characteristics of a building.

• BIM helps in improving coordination, efficiency, and accuracy in the desi...read more

Earthquake loads are calculated using seismic design codes and formulas based on the seismic hazard of the region.

• Determine the seismic hazard of the region using historical data and seismic maps

• Select a seismic design code such as ASCE 7 or Eurocode 8

• Calculate the seismic base shear using the formula V = CsW

• Distribute the seismic base shear to the structure using the appropriate load combinations

• Consider the effects o...read more

I am a structural engineer with 5 years of experience in designing and analyzing buildings and bridges.

• I have a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from XYZ University.

• I have worked on several high-rise building projects, including the design of the structural system and the analysis of load-bearing elements.

• I am proficient in using software such as AutoCAD, SAP2000, and ETABS for structural analysis and design.

• I ha...read more

I faced difficulties in coordinating with other teams and managing tight deadlines.

• Coordinating with other teams was challenging due to communication gaps and conflicting priorities.

• Managing tight deadlines required careful planning and prioritization of tasks.

• Ensuring the quality and safety of the project while meeting deadlines was a constant challenge.

• Dealing with unexpected design changes and modifications added co...read more

I enjoyed the construction phase the most in my previous project.

• I enjoyed seeing the design plans come to life as the structure was built.

• I found it exciting to work closely with contractors and construction teams.

• I enjoyed solving any unexpected challenges that arose during construction.

• I found satisfaction in seeing the progress and completion of each construction milestone.

• I enjoyed the hands-on aspect of the const...read more

Yes, I am comfortable working in remote locations.

• I have experience working on projects in remote areas.

• I am adaptable and can work in challenging environments.

• I am willing to travel and work on-site as required.

• I am familiar with using remote communication tools to stay connected with the team.

• For example, I worked on a project in a remote area of Alaska where we had to fly in and out by helicopter.

The notice period with my current employer is 1 month.

• My notice period with my current employer is 1 month.

• I am required to give a 1-month notice before leaving my current job.

• The standard notice period in my industry is 1 month, and I adhere to it.

• I have already informed my current employer about my intention to leave and will serve the notice period accordingly.

I am passionate about structural engineering and your organization aligns with my career goals.

• I have always been fascinated by the field of structural engineering and have a strong passion for it.

• I have researched your organization extensively and am impressed by the projects you have undertaken.

• Your organization has a reputation for excellence and innovation in the field of structural engineering.

• I believe that joini...read more