Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy Design Engineer Interview Questions, Process, and Tips

A foundation is designed by analyzing soil conditions, determining load requirements, selecting appropriate materials, and creating a structural design.

• Conduct a soil investigation to determine soil type, bearing capacity, and potential for settlement

• Calculate the load requirements based on the weight of the structure and any anticipated loads

• Select appropriate materials for the foundation, such as concrete, steel, or ...read more

Pile foundation is used for heavy structures while isolated foundation is used for light structures.

• Pile foundation transfers load to deeper soil layers while isolated foundation transfers load to the soil directly beneath it.

• Pile foundation is used for structures like bridges, high-rise buildings, and industrial plants while isolated foundation is used for houses, small buildings, and sheds.

• Pile foundation requires mo...read more

A bolted connection design involves selecting appropriate bolts, nuts, and washers to join two or more components together.

• The design must consider the loads and stresses that the connection will experience

• The bolt size, grade, and material must be selected based on the required strength and corrosion resistance

• The number and spacing of bolts must be determined to evenly distribute the load

• Proper tightening torque must...read more

The nominal stress for mild steel plate depends on the thickness of the plate and the yield strength of the steel.

• Nominal stress is the maximum stress that a material can withstand before it fails

• For mild steel, the nominal stress is typically calculated using the yield strength of the steel

• The thickness of the plate also plays a role in determining the nominal stress

• The formula for calculating nominal stress is: Nomin...read more

Minimum reinforcement for RCC columns, beams, slabs is specified in codes and depends on various factors.

• Minimum reinforcement is specified in codes such as IS 456 for Indian standards and ACI 318 for American standards.

• The minimum reinforcement depends on factors such as the size of the member, the type of loading, and the exposure conditions.

• For example, the minimum reinforcement for a column may be 0.8% of the cross...read more

I have a basic understanding of hydrology and its principles.

• I have studied hydrology as part of my civil engineering degree

• I understand the water cycle and how it relates to hydrology

• I am familiar with common hydrological models such as HEC-HMS and SWMM

• I have worked on projects that involved hydrological analysis and design

• I am willing to learn more about hydrology to improve my skills

Solar industry involves the production and distribution of solar energy through various technologies.

• Solar industry is a rapidly growing sector globally

• It includes the production of solar panels, solar cells, and other related equipment

• Solar energy is used for various purposes such as electricity generation, heating, and cooling

• The industry is heavily dependent on government policies and incentives

• Major players in the ...read more

Solar modules convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells.

• Photovoltaic cells absorb sunlight and release electrons, creating a flow of electricity.

• The electricity generated by the cells is direct current (DC), which is converted to alternating current (AC) by an inverter.

• The AC electricity is then used to power homes, businesses, and other electrical devices.

• Solar modules can be installed on rooftops, in...read more