800+ Civil Site Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

The minimum grade of concrete used in R.C.C. works is M20.

• R.C.C. stands for Reinforced Cement Concrete.

• M20 grade concrete has a compressive strength of 20 N/mm² after 28 days of curing.

• The minimum grade of concrete used in R.C.C. works may vary depending on the structural requirements.

• Higher grades of concrete are used for structures that require higher strength and durability.

• Lower grades of concrete may be used for non-structural elements like paving and landscaping.

• The mix...read more

Approximately 278 tiles will be required for the 10x10 feet room.

• Convert the room dimensions to the same unit as the tile size.

• Calculate the area of the room.

• Divide the room area by the tile area to get the number of tiles required.

• Round up the result to the nearest whole number.

If M50 concrete cube test result is below 100%, next procedure is to investigate the cause and take corrective measures.

• Check if the mix design was correct and if the materials used were of good quality.

• Inspect the curing process and ensure it was done properly.

• Consider conducting additional tests like rebound hammer test or ultrasonic pulse velocity test to assess the strength of the concrete.

• Take corrective measures like increasing the cement content, improving the curing p...read more

Plastering is a process of covering rough surfaces of walls, columns, ceilings, etc. with a smooth finish.

• The thickness of plastering varies depending on the surface to be covered and the type of plaster used.

• The most common type of plastering done at site is cement plastering.

• In my past construction work, I have supervised the plastering work and ensured that the thickness and quality of plastering are as per the specifications.

• Questions on plastering may include types of pl...read more

Civil engineering is a branch of engineering that deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure.

• Civil engineering involves the planning, design, and construction of buildings, roads, bridges, dams, and other structures.

• It encompasses various sub-disciplines such as structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, and water resources engineering.

• Civil engineers use principles of physics, mathematics, and materials science t...read more

The minimum thickness of grade slab depends on the load it will bear and the soil conditions.

• The thickness of the grade slab should be determined by a structural engineer.

• It should be thick enough to support the weight of the structure and any additional loads.

• The soil conditions should also be taken into consideration when determining the thickness.

• For example, if the soil is soft or unstable, a thicker slab may be required.

• The minimum thickness of the grade slab can vary fr...read more

The process of covering concrete placed on the exposed top of an external wall involves several steps.

• Clean the surface of the concrete to remove any dirt, dust, or debris.

• Apply a primer or bonding agent to enhance the adhesion of the covering material.

• Choose a suitable covering material such as paint, plaster, tiles, or cladding.

• Prepare the covering material according to the manufacturer's instructions.

• Apply the covering material evenly and smoothly over the concrete surface...read more

Mix design is the process of determining the proportions of ingredients to be used in concrete or asphalt.

• Mix design ensures the desired strength and durability of the construction material.

• It takes into account factors such as the type of aggregate, cement, water, and admixtures.

• Mix design is used in various construction projects such as buildings, roads, bridges, and dams.

• For example, a mix design for a high-rise building may differ from that of a bridge due to different re...read more

Construction joints and expansion joints are used in construction to accommodate movement, but they serve different purposes.

• Construction joints are used to separate different sections of a structure that are poured at different times.

• Expansion joints are used to allow for the expansion and contraction of materials due to temperature changes.

• Construction joints are typically formed by placing a keyway or dowel between the two sections to provide load transfer.

• Expansion joints...read more

Compression zone is located at the bottom of a simply supported beam and at the top of a cantilever beam. Tension zone is located at the top of a simply supported beam and at the bottom of a cantilever beam.

• In a simply supported beam, the compression zone is located at the bottom because the beam is supported at its ends, causing the bottom fibers to be compressed.

• In a cantilever beam, the compression zone is located at the top because the beam is fixed at one end and the top...read more

Extra bars in beams should be provided at locations of high bending moments or where additional reinforcement is required.

• Extra bars should be provided at supports and near the mid-span of the beam where bending moments are highest.

• Additional reinforcement may be required at locations where concentrated loads or point loads are applied.

• Extra bars should also be provided at locations where there are openings or cutouts in the beam.

• In seismic zones, extra bars should be provide...read more

A site engineer is responsible for overseeing construction projects and ensuring they are completed according to plans and specifications. A supervisor is a higher-level position that manages and coordinates the work of site engineers and other construction personnel.

• Site engineer: responsible for overseeing construction projects, ensuring compliance with plans and specifications

• Supervisor: higher-level position that manages and coordinates the work of site engineers and othe...read more

The formula for cutting length of stirrup is 2L + 2B + 10D, and weight of 1m steel of dia 12mm is 0.888 kg.

• Cutting length of stirrup formula: 2L + 2B + 10D

• Weight of 1m steel of dia 12mm: 0.888 kg

• L = Length of the stirrup

• B = Breadth of the stirrup

• D = Diameter of the stirrup

The lapping location for top and bottom bars of a beam is typically at the mid-span of the beam.

• The lapping location is where two reinforcement bars are overlapped and connected to ensure continuity and strength in the beam.

• For top bars, the lapping location is usually at the mid-span of the beam, where the bending moment is maximum.

• For bottom bars, the lapping location is also at the mid-span of the beam, but it can vary depending on the design and structural requirements.

• Th...read more

Different types of slabs include one-way slab, two-way slab, flat slab, waffle slab, and ribbed slab.

• One-way slab is supported on two opposite sides and is designed to bend in only one direction.

• Two-way slab is supported on all four sides and is designed to bend in two directions.

• Flat slab is a two-way reinforced concrete slab that does not have beams and is supported directly by columns.

• Waffle slab is a two-way slab with a grid of ribs on the underside, creating a waffle-lik...read more

Water leakage can be controlled through various methods and techniques.

• Identify the source of the leakage and repair it

• Apply waterproofing materials to surfaces prone to leakage

• Install proper drainage systems to redirect water away from structures

• Regularly inspect and maintain plumbing systems

• Use water-resistant construction materials

• Implement effective landscaping techniques to prevent water accumulation near structures

To calculate the weight of an 8mm diameter steel rod, use the formula: weight = volume x density.

• Calculate the volume of the rod using the formula: volume = π x (diameter/2)^2 x length

• Find the density of steel, which is typically around 7850 kg/m^3

• Multiply the volume by the density to get the weight of the rod

To check waterproofing area, follow these procedures

• Inspect the surface for cracks or gaps

• Ensure proper slope for drainage

• Apply primer before waterproofing

• Use appropriate waterproofing material

• Check for leaks after application

• Perform regular maintenance

• Examples: bituminous coating, polyurethane coating, cementitious coating

The minimum use diameter of bar in a column depends on various factors such as load, column size, and design requirements.

• The minimum use diameter of bar in a column is determined by the structural engineer during the design phase.

• It is influenced by the load that the column will bear and the size of the column.

• The design requirements, such as the desired strength and durability of the column, also play a role in determining the minimum bar diameter.

• The minimum use diameter o...read more

Construction joints are prepared to allow for the placement of concrete in stages.

• Clean the surface of the existing concrete before placing new concrete.

• Apply a bonding agent to the surface of the existing concrete.

• Place a form at the joint location to contain the new concrete.

• Install dowels or other reinforcement as needed.

• Pour the new concrete into the form and finish as desired.

• Remove the form after the concrete has cured.

• Apply a joint sealant to the joint to prevent water...read more

The least count of an Auto level is the smallest measurement that can be read. Auto levels are used for leveling and measuring heights.

• The least count of an Auto level is usually 0.5 mm

• Auto levels are used for leveling and measuring heights of different points on a site

• They are used to determine the difference in height between two points

• Auto levels are also used to establish a horizontal line of sight

• They are commonly used in construction and surveying

Pipe laying, sewer networking, and road restoration are essential tasks for civil site engineers.

• Pipe laying involves the installation of pipes for water supply, drainage, and sewage systems.

• Sewer networking involves connecting pipes to create a network for the transportation of sewage and wastewater.

• Road restoration involves repairing and maintaining roads and pavements that have been damaged due to construction work.

• Civil site engineers are responsible for ensuring that the...read more

The depth of bore pile is decided based on soil investigation report and load-bearing capacity of soil.

• Soil investigation report helps to determine the soil type and its load-bearing capacity.

• The load-bearing capacity of soil is determined by conducting Standard Penetration Test (SPT) or Cone Penetration Test (CPT).

• The depth of bore pile is decided based on the load-bearing capacity of soil and the design load of the structure.

• Factors like groundwater level, presence of rock ...read more

Work progress to timely complete target involves planning, monitoring, and adjusting activities to ensure timely completion.

• Develop a detailed project schedule with clear milestones and deadlines

• Regularly monitor and track progress against the schedule

• Identify potential delays or issues and take proactive measures to address them

• Allocate resources effectively to ensure tasks are completed on time

• Regularly communicate with the project team to ensure everyone is aware of the pr...read more

Quality points at the pouring time of concrete include proper mix proportions, correct placement, adequate compaction, and appropriate curing.

• Proper mix proportions ensure the desired strength and durability of the concrete.

• Correct placement involves placing the concrete in the designated location without segregation or excessive bleeding.

• Adequate compaction ensures that there are no voids or air pockets in the concrete, resulting in a dense and strong structure.

• Appropriate c...read more

PCC stands for Plain Cement Concrete and RCC stands for Reinforced Cement Concrete. The density of steel is around 7850 kg/m³ and the density of cement is around 1440 kg/m³.

• PCC is a type of concrete made with cement, sand, and coarse aggregates.

• RCC is a type of concrete made with cement, sand, coarse aggregates, and steel reinforcement.

• The unit of PCC and RCC refers to the measurement of volume or quantity used in construction.

• The density of steel is important for calculating...read more

Questions related to Civil Site Engineering including density of PCC and steel, M20 grade, one way and two way slab, and BBS.

• Density of PCC is typically around 2400 kg/m³.

• Density of steel is around 7850 kg/m³.

• M20 grade is a mix of concrete with a compressive strength of 20 MPa.

• One way slab is a slab supported by beams on two opposite sides while two way slab is supported by beams on all four sides.

• BBS stands for Bar Bending Schedule and is used to determine the amount and len...read more

UTM stands for Universal Transverse Mercator.

• UTM is a coordinate system used to locate positions on the Earth's surface.

• It divides the Earth into 60 zones, each 6 degrees of longitude wide.

• UTM coordinates consist of a zone number, easting, northing, and hemisphere.

• It provides a more accurate representation of locations compared to latitude and longitude.

• UTM coordinates are commonly used in civil engineering and surveying projects.

Civil engineers play a crucial role in the construction field and management.

• Designing and planning construction projects

• Ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations

• Managing budgets and resources

• Overseeing construction progress and quality

• Collaborating with architects, contractors, and other professionals

• Ensuring safety and environmental standards are met

• Providing technical advice and solutions to problems

• Maintaining project documentation and records

Different methods of rust prevention for rebars on site

• Coating with anti-corrosive materials like epoxy, zinc, or polyurethane

• Cathodic protection using impressed current or sacrificial anodes

• Proper concrete cover and curing to prevent moisture penetration

• Regular inspection and maintenance to identify and address any signs of corrosion

• Using stainless steel rebars instead of traditional carbon steel rebars

• Applying corrosion inhibitors to the concrete mix

• Avoiding contact with ch...read more

Safety measures on site include personal protective equipment, hazard identification, and emergency response planning.

• Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots

• Identifying and addressing potential hazards such as uneven terrain, electrical hazards, and falling objects

• Developing and implementing an emergency response plan in case of accidents or injuries

• Providing safety training to all workers on site

• Regularly inspecting...read more

To take a proportion on site, I would use a measuring tape or a measuring instrument to determine the required ratio of materials or dimensions.

• Measure the dimensions of the objects or areas that need to be proportioned

• Calculate the required ratio based on the project specifications

• Communicate the ratio to the laborers or workers on site

• Provide clear instructions on how to mix or apply the materials in the correct proportion

• Supervise the laborers to ensure they follow the ins...read more

The internal plastering thickness and mix ratio vary depending on the type of surface and desired finish.

• The thickness of internal plastering typically ranges from 12mm to 20mm.

• The mix ratio for internal plastering is usually 1:4 (cement:sand) or 1:6 (cement:sand) depending on the strength requirement.

• For smooth finishes, a finer mix ratio of 1:3 (cement:sand) may be used.

• Gypsum plaster is commonly used for internal plastering due to its ease of application and quick drying t...read more

There are various waterproofing chemicals available for civil site engineering.

• Polyurethane-based waterproofing chemicals

• Acrylic-based waterproofing chemicals

• Bitumen-based waterproofing chemicals

• Cementitious waterproofing chemicals

• Silicone-based waterproofing chemicals

• Epoxy-based waterproofing chemicals

Retaining wall shuttering details, layer casting, and column reducing ratio are important aspects of civil site engineering.

• Retaining wall shuttering details involve the use of formwork to create the desired shape and size of the wall.

• The number of layers cast for a retaining wall depends on the height and soil conditions of the site.

• Column reducing ratio is the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the column at the top to that at the bottom.

• This ratio is important for ensuri...read more

The density of cement is typically around 1440 kg/m³.

• The density of cement is a measure of its mass per unit volume.

• It is commonly expressed in kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³).

• The density of cement can vary slightly depending on factors such as the type of cement and its composition.

• For example, ordinary Portland cement typically has a density of around 1440 kg/m³.

• Other types of cement, such as lightweight cement, may have lower densities.

• The density of cement is an importa...read more

Civil engineering is a branch of engineering that deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of the built environment.

• Civil engineering involves the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems.

• Civil engineers use principles of physics, mathematics, and materials science to design and build structures that are safe, efficient, and sustainable.

• Examples of civil engineering projects include the ...read more

There are typically three types of polymer tests conducted before drilling pile.

• Polymer viscosity test

• Polymer filtration test

• Polymer compatibility test

Chicken mesh is provided for electrical pipe packing to prevent the entry of rodents and other small animals.

• Chicken mesh acts as a physical barrier to prevent rodents and small animals from entering the electrical pipe.

• Rodents can chew through electrical wires, causing damage and potential safety hazards.

• Chicken mesh is made of strong and durable material, making it difficult for rodents to penetrate.

• It is cost-effective and easy to install, providing an effective solution f...read more

The slump value of grade concrete RRC varies depending on the specific requirements and application.

• The slump value of grade concrete RRC is determined by the desired workability and consistency of the concrete mix.

• Higher slump values indicate a more fluid and workable concrete mix, while lower slump values indicate a stiffer and less workable mix.

• The slump value for grade concrete RRC can range from 25 mm to 100 mm or more, depending on the project specifications.

• For example...read more

There are several grades of concrete used in construction.

• The most common grades of concrete are M10, M20, M30, M40, M50, and M60.

• The number after 'M' represents the compressive strength of the concrete in megapascals (MPa).

• Higher grade concrete is used for structures that require greater strength, such as bridges and high-rise buildings.

• Lower grade concrete is used for non-structural elements like sidewalks and driveways.

Interview questions for Civil Site Engineer including foundation types, cement bag volume, brick masonry, concrete mould size, M15 grade ratio, and bottom clear cover of foundation.

• Types of foundation include shallow, deep, and special foundations

• Volume of one cement bag is typically 0.0347 cubic meters or 1.226 cubic feet

• Approximately 500 bricks are needed for 1M3 brick masonry

• Concrete mould size varies depending on the project requirements

• Ratio of M15 grade concrete is 1:2:...read more

Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, and aggregates. Quality concrete requires proper proportioning, mixing, and curing.

• Cement, water, and aggregates are the three main components of concrete.

• The proportion of each component should be carefully calculated to achieve the desired strength and durability.

• Mixing should be done thoroughly to ensure uniformity of the mixture.

• Curing is a critical step in the process, as it allows the concrete to gain strength and durability over ...read more

There are two types of binding in construction - temporary binding and permanent binding. Grade of steel used for construction varies depending on the structural requirements. Safety on site can be ensured by following proper protocols and wearing appropriate safety gear.

• Two types of binding in construction: temporary binding (e.g. wire binding) and permanent binding (e.g. welding)

• Grade of steel used for construction depends on structural requirements (e.g. Grade 250 steel fo...read more

I have more knowledge in structural engineering.

• Specialization in structural analysis and design

• Extensive experience in designing buildings, bridges, and other structures

• Knowledge of various materials and construction techniques

• Familiarity with relevant codes and standards

• Ability to perform structural calculations and simulations

Viscosity is the measure of a fluid's resistance to flow. The viscosity of a polymer depends on its molecular weight and temperature.

• Viscosity is a property of fluids that determines their flow behavior.

• It is a measure of a fluid's resistance to flow.

• Viscosity is influenced by factors like temperature and molecular weight.

• Polymers can have different viscosities depending on their molecular weight and temperature.

• Higher molecular weight polymers generally have higher viscositi...read more

Fly ash is a byproduct of coal combustion and is used in cement to improve workability, reduce permeability, and increase durability.

• Fly ash is a fine powder that is added to cement to improve its properties.

• It is a byproduct of coal combustion and is collected from power plants.

• Fly ash improves workability by reducing water demand and increasing pumpability.

• It reduces permeability and increases durability by filling voids and improving the microstructure of the cement paste....read more