100+ Civil Site Engineer Interview Questions and Answers for Freshers

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

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 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

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

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

• Polymer viscosity test

• Polymer filtration test

• Polymer compatibility test

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

The volume of concrete can be measured using various methods such as the displacement method, the geometric method, or the unit weight method.

• Displacement method: In this method, the volume of concrete is determined by measuring the change in water level when the concrete is submerged in a container.

• Geometric method: This method involves measuring the dimensions of the concrete element (length, width, and height) and calculating the volume using the formula V = l × w × h.

• Unit...read more

Civil site engineers are responsible for overseeing construction projects and ensuring they meet safety and quality standards.

• Supervising construction projects

• Ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards

• Collaborating with architects and contractors

• Managing budgets and timelines

• Performing site inspections and surveys

• Preparing reports and documentation

Uniformly distributed load refers to a load that is evenly distributed over a given area or length.

• It is a type of load that is applied uniformly across a surface or structure.

• The magnitude of the load remains constant throughout the area or length.

• Examples include the weight of evenly distributed vehicles on a bridge or the weight of soil on a retaining wall.

• Uniformly distributed load is often represented by a load per unit area or length.

Answers to questions related to civil engineering calculations and terminology.

• To calculate the diagonal of a rectangle, use the Pythagorean theorem.

• Clear cover of foundation, column, beam, and slab refers to the distance between the outer surface of the reinforcement and the outer surface of the concrete.

• Compressive strength is calculated by dividing the maximum load the material can bear by its cross-sectional area.

• Clear cover is important to prevent corrosion of reinforcem...read more

Bearing capacity of soil refers to its ability to support the load of a structure without excessive settlement or failure.

• Bearing capacity is a crucial factor in determining the type and size of foundations for structures.

• It depends on various factors such as soil type, moisture content, compaction, and depth.

• Different types of soil have different bearing capacities. For example, clay has a lower bearing capacity compared to sand.

• The bearing capacity is typically expressed in...read more

The soundness of cement refers to its ability to retain its volume after setting.

• Soundness is an important property of cement that ensures its durability and long-term stability.

• It is measured by conducting the Le Chatelier test or the autoclave test.

• A sound cement will not undergo significant expansion or contraction after setting.

• Unsound cement may lead to cracks, reduced strength, and structural instability.

• For example, if cement expands excessively during setting, it can ...read more

Piling works involve the construction of deep foundations to support structures on unstable soil or rock.

• Piling works are used to transfer the load of a structure to a deeper, more stable layer of soil or rock.

• Different types of piles are used, such as driven piles, bored piles, and auger cast piles.

• Piling works are commonly used in the construction of bridges, high-rise buildings, and waterfront structures.

• Piles can be made of various materials, including concrete, steel, an...read more

The process of tower foundation involves several steps that are carried out day by day.

• Day 1: Site preparation and layout survey

• Day 2: Excavation for foundation

• Day 3: Reinforcement placement

• Day 4: Formwork installation

• Day 5: Concrete pouring

• Day 6: Curing of concrete

• Day 7: Removal of formwork

• Day 8: Quality inspection and testing

• Day 9: Backfilling around the foundation

• Day 10: Final inspection and documentation

Construction managers are responsible for overseeing construction projects from start to finish.

• Planning and organizing construction activities

• Managing project budgets and schedules

• Hiring and supervising construction workers

• Ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations

• Collaborating with architects, engineers, and other stakeholders

• Monitoring construction progress and resolving any issues

• Ensuring quality control and safety on the construction site

• Preparing progress r...read more

The question is related to building materials and concrete grades. It also asks about the difference between M20 and M25.

• Grade of concrete refers to the strength of the concrete mix. It is denoted by the ratio of cement, sand, and aggregate.

• Tests related to building materials include compressive strength test, water absorption test, and soundness test.

• M20 and M25 are both grades of concrete mix. M20 has a compressive strength of 20 MPa while M25 has a compressive strength of ...read more

Various types of mix in civil engineering include concrete mix, asphalt mix, soil-cement mix, and mortar mix.

• Concrete mix: a combination of cement, aggregates, water, and sometimes admixtures used for construction.

• Asphalt mix: a mixture of asphalt binder, aggregates, and filler used for road construction.

• Soil-cement mix: a blend of soil, cement, and water used for stabilizing soil and creating a solid base.

• Mortar mix: a mixture of cement, sand, and water used for bonding bric...read more

The ratio of cc mix in M-30 concrete is 1:1.5:3.

• The ratio of cc mix in M-30 concrete refers to the proportion of cement, coarse aggregates, and fine aggregates.

• In M-30 concrete, the ratio is 1 part cement, 1.5 parts coarse aggregates, and 3 parts fine aggregates.

• This ratio determines the strength and workability of the concrete mix.

• For example, if we need to prepare 1 cubic meter of M-30 concrete, we would use 1/5.5 cubic meters of cement, 1.5/5.5 cubic meters of coarse aggre...read more

Red brick size varies and cement final seating time period depends on various factors.

• Red brick size can vary from region to region and manufacturer to manufacturer.

• The standard size of a red brick is 9 inches by 4.5 inches by 3 inches.

• The final seating time period for cement depends on the type of cement used and the environmental conditions.

• Generally, the final seating time period for cement is between 24 to 48 hours.

• Factors like temperature, humidity, and wind speed can af...read more

Concrete compensation percentage varies based on factors like experience, location, and company size.

• Concrete compensation percentage can range from 5% to 20% of the total project cost.

• Factors influencing concrete compensation percentage include experience level of the engineer, location of the project, and size of the company.

• For example, a junior civil site engineer may receive a lower percentage compared to a senior engineer working in a metropolitan area for a large const...read more

The grade of concrete refers to its strength and is classified based on its compressive strength.

• Concrete grades range from M5 to M100, with M representing mix and the number representing the compressive strength in megapascals (MPa).

• The most commonly used grades of concrete are M20, M25, and M30.

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

• The grade of concrete is determined by testing a sample of the con...read more

Cube mould size refers to the dimensions of the mould used to cast concrete cubes for testing.

• Cube moulds are typically made of steel or cast iron.

• The most common cube mould size used in construction is 150mm x 150mm x 150mm.

• Other sizes like 100mm x 100mm x 100mm or 200mm x 200mm x 200mm may also be used depending on the requirements.

• Cube moulds have removable base plates to facilitate easy removal of the hardened concrete cubes.

• These cubes are then tested for compressive str...read more

M20, M25 concrete refers to the mix ratio of cement, sand, and aggregate used in construction. The grade represents the compressive strength of the concrete after 28 days.

• M20 concrete has a mix ratio of 1:1.5:3 (cement:sand:aggregate) and a compressive strength of 20 MPa.

• M25 concrete has a mix ratio of 1:1:2 (cement:sand:aggregate) and a compressive strength of 25 MPa.

• The grade represents the compressive strength of the concrete after 28 days of curing.

• Higher grade concrete (...read more

A foundation is a structural element that supports a building or other structure by transferring its load to the underlying soil or rock.

• Foundations are typically made of concrete, masonry, or steel.

• They are designed to distribute the weight of the structure evenly and prevent settlement or movement.

• Different types of foundations include shallow foundations (such as strip footings and mat foundations) and deep foundations (such as piles and caissons).

• The choice of foundation ...read more

The maximum cover for beam, column, and slab is typically specified in building codes and varies depending on the specific project requirements.

• The maximum cover for beams is usually around 1.5 inches to 2 inches.

• For columns, the maximum cover is typically around 1.5 inches to 3 inches.

• Slabs generally have a maximum cover of around 0.75 inches to 1.5 inches.

• The specific maximum cover requirements may vary based on factors such as the type of structure, environmental condition...read more

Steel weight can be calculated by multiplying the volume of steel with its density.

• Calculate the volume of steel by multiplying its length, width, and height

• Determine the density of the specific type of steel being used

• Multiply the volume of steel by its density to get the weight

• Example: If the volume of steel is 10 cubic meters and its density is 7850 kg/m^3, then the weight would be 78,500 kg

To identify if a room is in correct rectangle shape, check if all angles are 90 degrees and opposite sides are equal in length.

• Measure all four angles of the room using a protractor. If all angles measure 90 degrees, it is a rectangle.

• Measure the length of opposite sides using a measuring tape. If they are equal, it is a rectangle.

• Check if the diagonals of the room are equal in length. If they are, it is a rectangle.

• Verify if the adjacent sides are perpendicular to each other...read more

Waterproofing is the process of making a structure or material resistant to the penetration of water.

• It involves the application of various techniques and materials to prevent water from entering or damaging a structure.

• Common waterproofing methods include the use of waterproof membranes, sealants, and coatings.

• Waterproofing is essential in construction to protect buildings, basements, roofs, and other structures from water damage.

• Examples of waterproofing applications includ...read more

The number of pile load tests required depends on various factors such as project specifications, soil conditions, and design requirements.

• The number of pile load tests is determined based on the project specifications and design requirements.

• The soil conditions at the site play a crucial role in determining the number of pile load tests.

• Different types of pile load tests, such as static load tests and dynamic load tests, may be conducted to assess the pile's performance.

• The ...read more

The question asks about years of experience in a construction company, plaster work size, and M20 grade concrete ratio.

• Years of experience in a construction company

• Plaster work size

• M20 grade concrete ratio

Sloped cutting refers to the excavation of soil or rock at an inclined angle to create a slope or incline.

• Sloped cutting is commonly used in construction projects to create roadways, railways, or canals on hilly terrains.

• It involves removing the excess material from a higher elevation to a lower elevation, forming a sloping surface.

• The angle of the slope is determined based on factors such as soil stability, desired gradient, and project requirements.

• Sloped cutting may requir...read more

Concrete grade and strength are determined by the ratio of cement, sand, and aggregate used in the mix.

• Concrete grades range from M5 to M80, with M20 being the most commonly used for general construction.

• The strength of concrete is measured in megapascals (MPa), with higher numbers indicating stronger concrete.

• For example, M20 concrete has a compressive strength of 20 MPa.

• Other common grades include M25, M30, and M40, with corresponding strengths of 25, 30, and 40 MPa, respec...read more

The minimum and maximum size of a column depends on various factors such as load, height, and material used.

• The minimum size of a column is typically determined by the structural requirements and load-bearing capacity.

• The maximum size of a column is often limited by practical considerations such as construction methods and available materials.

• For example, in residential construction, a common minimum size for a column may be 200mm x 200mm, while the maximum size could be 600m...read more

Concrete ratio is the proportion of cement, sand, and aggregate in a concrete mix.

• Concrete ratio is typically expressed as a ratio of cement:sand:aggregate, such as 1:2:4.

• The ratio may vary depending on the strength and durability requirements of the concrete mix.

• Common concrete ratios include 1:1.5:3, 1:2:4, and 1:3:6.

• The grade of concrete (e.g. M20, M25) also determines the concrete ratio.

Different grade ratios are used in mixtures for civil engineering projects.

• Grade ratios are used to determine the proportions of different materials in a mixture.

• Common grade ratios include 1:2:4, 1:3:6, and 1:4:8.

• The first number represents the ratio of cement, the second number represents the ratio of sand, and the third number represents the ratio of aggregate.

• For example, in a 1:2:4 grade ratio, for every 1 part of cement, there are 2 parts of sand and 4 parts of aggregat...read more

The density of PCC and RCC varies depending on the mix design and ingredients used.

• The density of PCC (Plain Cement Concrete) typically ranges from 2200 to 2500 kg/m³.

• The density of RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) typically ranges from 2300 to 2500 kg/m³.

• The density can vary based on the proportions of cement, aggregates, and water used in the mix.

• Higher density concrete mixes are generally used for structural elements requiring greater strength and durability.

• Density can al...read more

Concrete grades are classifications that indicate the strength and quality of concrete.

• Concrete grades are determined based on the compressive strength of the concrete.

• The most common concrete grades are M10, M15, M20, M25, M30, M35, M40, M45, M50, M55, M60, and M70.

• The number in the concrete grade represents the compressive strength of the concrete in megapascals (MPa).

• For example, M20 grade concrete has a compressive strength of 20 MPa.

• Higher concrete grades are used for st...read more

The minimum percentage of water cement ratio for M20 grade concrete is 0.45.

• Water cement ratio is a crucial factor in determining the strength and durability of concrete.

• For M20 grade concrete, the minimum water cement ratio is 0.45, meaning 0.45 parts of water for every 1 part of cement.

• Maintaining the correct water cement ratio is essential to achieve the desired strength and workability of concrete.

• Excess water can weaken the concrete and lead to cracks, while insufficient...read more

Cover blocks are used to protect steel reinforcement from atmospheric corrosion and improve the durability of the structure.

• Cover blocks help in maintaining the specified distance between the reinforcement and the outer surface of the concrete member.

• They prevent direct contact between steel and concrete, reducing the risk of corrosion.

• Cover blocks also help in providing fire resistance to the structure.

• Examples: plastic cover blocks, concrete cover blocks, fiber-reinforced c...read more

Vibrators are used in concrete work to remove air bubbles and ensure proper compaction.

• Vibrators help in achieving a dense and strong concrete mix by removing air voids.

• They improve the bond between the concrete and reinforcement.

• Different types of vibrators like internal vibrators, external vibrators, and surface vibrators are used based on the project requirements.

• Examples include using internal vibrators for concrete columns and walls, and external vibrators for slabs and ...read more

The specific weight of steel is the weight of a unit volume of steel material.

• Specific weight is also known as the unit weight or density of a material.

• It is typically measured in units of kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³) or pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³).

• The specific weight of steel can vary depending on the type and grade of steel.

• For example, the specific weight of mild steel is around 7850 kg/m³ or 490 lb/ft³.

• Higher density steels, such as stainless steel, can have speci...read more

There are two different types of leveling instruments - Auto level and Dumpy level.

• Auto level is an optical instrument that uses a self-leveling mechanism to provide accurate measurements.

• Dumpy level is a simple, low-cost instrument that requires manual leveling and is less accurate than an Auto level.

• Auto level is commonly used in construction projects, while Dumpy level is used for smaller projects or in areas with limited access.

• Both instruments are used to measure height ...read more

The formula to find weight of steel is weight = volume * density

• The weight of steel can be calculated by multiplying the volume of the steel with its density

• The formula is weight = volume * density

• For example, if the volume of a steel beam is 1 cubic meter and the density of steel is 7850 kg/m^3, then the weight would be 1 * 7850 = 7850 kg

Yes, the standard size of a concrete cube is 15 cm × 15 cm × 15 cm.

• The standard size of a concrete cube is used for testing the compressive strength of concrete.

• The cubes are casted and cured for 28 days before testing.

• The cubes are tested using a compression testing machine.

• The compressive strength of concrete is calculated by dividing the maximum load applied to the cube by the cross-sectional area of the cube.

ISO 9001 for steel shuttering, ISO 22900 for concrete

• ISO 9001 is the international standard for quality management systems, which can be applied to the manufacturing of steel shuttering

• ISO 22900 is the standard for concrete production and testing, ensuring quality and consistency

• These ISO codes help ensure that steel shuttering and concrete meet international quality standards

BBS stands for Bar Bending Schedule, which is a detailed report that provides information about the reinforcement steel required for a construction project.

• BBS is used in civil engineering to determine the quantity, shape, and size of reinforcement bars needed in a structure.

• It helps in estimating the cost of reinforcement and ensures proper placement of bars as per design.

• BBS includes information about the number of bars, their lengths, shapes, and bending details.

• It is prep...read more

The thickness of plastering varies depending on the type of surface and the purpose of the plastering.

• The thickness of plastering for internal walls is usually 12-15mm.

• For external walls, the thickness of plastering is usually 20-25mm.

• The thickness of plastering for ceilings is usually 6-10mm.

• The thickness of plastering for decorative purposes can vary from 3-5mm.

• The thickness of plastering for rough surfaces may require multiple coats.

• The thickness of plastering for smooth s...read more