200+ Junior Engineer Civil Interview Questions and Answers

The base in civil foundation refers to the lowest part of the foundation that supports the structure above it.

• The base is the part of the foundation that is in direct contact with the soil or rock below.

• It is designed to distribute the weight of the structure evenly and prevent settling or shifting.

• The size and shape of the base depend on the type of soil and the weight of the structure.

• Examples of types of bases include spread footing, mat foundation, and pile foundation.

The slope of a staircase refers to the angle at which the stairs are inclined.

• The slope of a staircase is typically measured in terms of the rise and run of the stairs.

• It is important to ensure that the slope of a staircase is within acceptable limits for safety and ease of use.

• The slope of a staircase can vary depending on the building codes and regulations of a particular region.

• For example, a common guideline is to have a maximum slope of 7.5 inches of rise for every 10 in...read more

FSI stands for Floor Space Index, Feasibility Report assesses viability of a project, proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

• FSI (Floor Space Index) is a ratio of the total floor area of a building to the size of the land on which it is built.

• Feasibility Report evaluates the potential success of a project based on various factors such as cost, timeline, and resources.

• Proficiency in Excel includes creating spreadsheets, data analysis, and formulas.

• Proficiency in PowerPoint ...read more

Standard dimensions of road components are crucial for safe and efficient transportation.

• Road width varies depending on the type of road and traffic volume

• Lane width is typically 3.7 meters for highways and 3.0 meters for urban roads

• Shoulder width is usually 1.5 meters for highways and 1.0 meter for urban roads

• Median width is typically 3.0 meters for highways

• Curb height is usually 15-20 centimeters

• Sidewalk width varies depending on the location and pedestrian traffic volume

Dedo is a term used in construction for the leveling of the foundation of a building.

• Dedo is the process of marking the level of the foundation of a building.

• It is done to ensure that the foundation is level and stable.

• It is usually done using a spirit level and a measuring tape.

• Dedo is important for the safety and stability of the building.

• It is also important for the proper alignment of walls and columns.

• For example, if the dedo is not done properly, the walls may not be st...read more

Development length is the length of reinforcement required to transfer the stress from steel to concrete. Lapping length is the length of overlap required for two reinforcement bars to transfer stress.

• Development length is influenced by factors like bar diameter, concrete strength, bond strength, etc.

• Lapping length is necessary to ensure continuity of reinforcement along the length of the structure.

• Example: For a 20mm diameter bar in M20 grade concrete, the development length...read more

Standard sand in India is obtained from?

• Standard sand in India is obtained from the river beds of Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery, and Pennar.

• It is used for testing the quality of cement and concrete.

• The sand is sieved through a 1.18mm sieve before being used for testing purposes.

Construction activities can be checked by following a systematic approach.

• Create a checklist of all the activities that need to be done

• Ensure that the materials used are of good quality

• Check the measurements and dimensions of the structure

• Monitor the progress of the work and ensure that it is on schedule

• Inspect the work done by the workers and ensure that it meets the required standards

Coarse aggregate is larger than 4.75mm in size, while fine aggregate is smaller than 4.75mm in size.

• Coarse aggregate is typically used in concrete mixtures for structural purposes.

• Fine aggregate is often used in mortar mixtures for plastering and masonry work.

• Coarse aggregate includes materials like gravel, crushed stone, and recycled concrete.

• Fine aggregate includes materials like sand and crushed stone dust.

PWD department stands for Public Works Department, responsible for construction and maintenance of public infrastructure.

• PWD department is a government organization responsible for the construction and maintenance of public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water supply systems.

• It plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and functionality of public infrastructure for the benefit of the community.

• PWD departments operate at both state and national levels,...read more

Bar bending schedule is a document that provides details of reinforcement steel bars, their shape, size, length, and quantity required for construction.

• It is used by civil engineers and contractors for estimating the amount of steel required for a construction project.

• It includes information about the diameter, length, and shape of each bar, as well as the number of bars required for each section of the structure.

• It helps in reducing wastage of steel and ensures that the rein...read more

I cannot disclose my expected salary as it is confidential.

• I prefer to discuss salary expectations during the negotiation phase

• My salary expectations are based on my experience and the industry standards

• I am open to discussing compensation packages that align with my skills and experience

Iron steel rods are used in construction for their strength, durability, and flexibility.

• Provide structural support in buildings and bridges

• Resist tension and compression forces

• Can be easily bent and shaped to fit specific construction needs

• Help reinforce concrete structures to prevent cracking

• Durable and long-lasting material for construction projects

Time period of a building can be calculated using the formula T = 2*sqrt(L/g), where T is the time period, L is the height of the building, and g is the acceleration due to gravity.

• Calculate the height of the building (L)

• Determine the acceleration due to gravity (g)

• Use the formula T = 2*sqrt(L/g) to calculate the time period

Land survey tasks involve measuring and mapping the land to determine boundaries, elevations, and other features.

• Using specialized equipment like total stations and GPS to measure distances and angles

• Creating maps and reports based on collected data

• Identifying property boundaries and legal descriptions

• Assessing terrain for construction projects

• Providing data for urban planning and development projects

Different types of flow of water include laminar flow, turbulent flow, and transitional flow.

• Laminar flow: smooth and orderly flow of water with parallel layers moving in the same direction.

• Turbulent flow: chaotic and irregular flow with mixing of layers and eddies.

• Transitional flow: a mix of laminar and turbulent flow, often occurring during a transition between the two.

• Examples: Water flowing in a straight pipe exhibits laminar flow, while water flowing over rocks in a rive...read more

Back sighting is a surveying technique used to establish a point by sighting back to a known point of reference.

• Back sighting involves sighting from the point being surveyed back to a known point with a higher elevation.

• It is used to establish the height or elevation of the point being surveyed relative to the known point.

• Back sighting helps ensure accuracy in leveling and measuring vertical distances in surveying.

• Example: In construction, back sighting can be used to ensure ...read more

Quantity estimation involves calculating the amount of materials needed for various construction tasks like brickwork, RCC, waterproofing, plaster, and gypsum.

• Calculate the volume of the structure to determine the quantity of materials needed.

• Consider the dimensions of the materials being used (e.g. size of bricks, thickness of plaster) to calculate the quantity required.

• Account for wastage and additional materials needed for joints, overlaps, etc.

• Use standard unit rates for ...read more

Modular bricks are standardized in size and commonly used in construction.

• The size of a modular brick is 3 5/8 inches by 2 1/4 inches by 7 5/8 inches.

• Modular bricks are the most commonly used bricks in construction.

• They are standardized in size to ensure consistency in building.

• Modular bricks are also known as 'common bricks'.

Gasket aviator is used to prevent leakage between two surfaces.

• It is a type of gasket used in aviation industry.

• It is placed between two surfaces to prevent leakage of fluids or gases.

• It is made up of materials like rubber, silicone, or metal.

• It is used in aircraft engines, hydraulic systems, and fuel systems.

• It helps in maintaining the pressure and temperature of the system.

Grade of cement, PCC, and concrete mix are important factors in construction.

• Grade of cement refers to the strength of the cement used in construction.

• PCC stands for Plain Cement Concrete, which is a mixture of cement, sand, and water.

• Concrete mix refers to the ratio of cement, sand, and aggregate used in making concrete.

• The grade of cement used in construction depends on the type of structure and the load it will bear.

• The ratio of cement, sand, and aggregate in concrete mix ...read more

The number of days required to complete a 10x10 room depends on various factors such as the size of the workforce, equipment availability, and project complexity.

• The time required to complete a 10x10 room will vary based on the construction method used (e.g. traditional construction, prefabrication).

• Factors such as the skill level of the workers, availability of materials, and weather conditions can also impact the timeline.

• For example, a simple 10x10 room with basic finishes...read more

To transfer a level from existing TBM, follow these steps:

• Set up a new TBM at the desired location

• Measure the height difference between the two TBMs using a leveling instrument

• Adjust the new TBM to match the level of the existing TBM

• Verify the accuracy of the transfer by taking additional measurements

• Record the transferred level in the project documentation

The temperature for curing water is typically between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Curing water is typically done at room temperature, which is around 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

• The temperature can vary depending on the specific application and materials being used.

• Higher temperatures can speed up the curing process, but may also affect the quality of the final product.

Good quality cement should have high strength, low heat of hydration, and minimal impurities.

• High compressive strength

• Low heat of hydration to prevent cracking

• Minimal impurities like excess lime or magnesium oxide

• Consistent fineness and setting time

• Should meet relevant standards like ASTM C150 or IS 269

The question covers various aspects of concrete testing and steel reinforcement.

• Slump test is used to measure the consistency of fresh concrete.

• Density of cement is the mass per unit volume of cement.

• Steel diameter has a minimum and maximum limit as per the design specifications.

• The minimum and maximum diameter of steel reinforcement bars depend on the type of structure and the load it will bear.

The bearing capacity of a bolt is a measure of its ability to withstand loads without failure.

• Bearing capacity is influenced by factors such as bolt diameter, material strength, and surface conditions.

• The bearing capacity can be calculated using various formulas, such as the Euler's formula or the Goodman's formula.

• For example, the bearing capacity of a bolt can be determined using the formula: P = A * σ * F

• Where P is the bearing capacity, A is the contact area, σ is the allo...read more

Cube test is used to determine the compressive strength of concrete. Steel provides tensile strength to the structure.

• Cube test is conducted by casting concrete cubes and testing them for compressive strength after a certain period of curing.

• Steel reinforcement bars are used in concrete structures to provide tensile strength and prevent cracking.

• The combination of concrete and steel in a structure ensures that it can withstand both compressive and tensile forces.

• For example, ...read more

Freeway bridges are built using a combination of design, construction, and materials to ensure safety and durability.

• Freeway bridges are designed by civil engineers who consider factors such as traffic volume, soil conditions, and environmental impact.

• The design process involves creating detailed plans and calculations to determine the size, shape, and materials needed for the bridge.

• Construction of freeway bridges typically involves building temporary supports, excavating th...read more

Different grades of concrete are used for different structures based on their strength requirements.

• Different grades of concrete like M5, M10, M15, M20, M25, etc. are used for different structures.

• For example, M5 grade concrete is used for PCC (Plain Cement Concrete) work, while M20 grade concrete is used for RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) work.

• Higher grades like M30, M35, M40, etc. are used for structures requiring higher strength like bridges, dams, etc.

M-20 and M-25 are concrete mix ratios used in construction.

• M-20 concrete mix ratio is 1:1.5:3 (cement:sand:aggregate)

• M-25 concrete mix ratio is 1:1:2 (cement:sand:aggregate)

• The strength of concrete increases with the increase in the mix ratio

• M-20 is generally used for non-structural works while M-25 is used for structural works

Manageable refers to something that can be controlled or handled easily, while not manageable refers to something that is difficult or impossible to control or handle.

• Manageable tasks can be completed within a given timeframe and with available resources.

• Not manageable tasks require additional resources, time, or expertise to be completed.

• Manageable situations can be resolved with minimal effort or intervention.

• Not manageable situations may require significant effort or inter...read more

Reinforcement in civil engineering refers to the process of adding steel bars or mesh to concrete structures to increase their strength and durability.

• Reinforcement helps to resist tensile forces in concrete structures.

• Common types of reinforcement include rebar (steel bars) and wire mesh.

• Reinforcement is placed strategically within the concrete forms before pouring the concrete.

• Properly placed reinforcement helps prevent cracking and structural failure in buildings and bridg...read more

The diameter of dowel bars for pavement depends on its thickness and is typically 32mm.

• Dowel bars are used to transfer loads between slabs of concrete pavement.

• The diameter of dowel bars is determined by the thickness of the pavement.

• Thicker pavements require larger dowel bars to transfer loads effectively.

• A typical diameter for dowel bars is 32mm.

• Dowel bars are typically made of steel and are placed perpendicular to the pavement joints.

Concrete is a composite material made of cement, water, aggregates, and sometimes admixtures, used in construction for its strength and durability.

• Concrete is made by mixing cement, water, and aggregates like sand and gravel.

• It hardens over time through a chemical process called hydration.

• Different types of concrete can be used for various construction purposes, such as reinforced concrete for structures.

• Admixtures can be added to improve specific properties of concrete, like...read more

Interval is a period of time or space between two points.

• Interval is used to measure the duration between two events or points in time.

• In civil engineering, interval is used to determine the frequency of inspections or maintenance of structures.

• For example, the interval between two bridge inspections may be every 2 years.

• Interval can also refer to the distance between two points in space, such as the interval between two columns in a building.

• In music, interval refers to the ...read more

Material of construction should be selected based on the type of structure, environmental conditions, and budget.

• Consider the strength, durability, and cost of the material.

• Choose materials that are suitable for the environment, such as weather-resistant materials for outdoor structures.

• Ensure that the material meets the required standards and regulations.

• Take into account the availability and accessibility of the material.

• Examples of materials include concrete, steel, wood, ...read more

Various materials quality can be checked through different methods and tests.

• Visual inspection for any defects or irregularities

• Physical tests like hardness, strength, and durability

• Chemical tests to determine composition and purity

• Non-destructive tests like ultrasonic testing and X-ray inspection

• Sampling and laboratory testing

• Reference to relevant standards and specifications

• Consultation with experts in the field

• Examples: Concrete strength testing, steel composition analysis...read more

Flemish bond brick masonry is considered good due to its strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

• Flemish bond brick masonry is known for its strong and durable structure.

• It provides a visually appealing pattern with alternating headers and stretchers in each course.

• The bond helps in distributing the load evenly across the wall.

• Other types like English bond and Stretcher bond are also commonly used in brick masonry.

Yes, I am comfortable with any location.

• I am open to working in different locations and adapting to new environments.

• I have experience working in diverse locations during my studies and internships.

• I believe that being flexible with location allows for more opportunities and growth.

• I am willing to relocate if required for the job.

Load bearing piles support the weight of the structure while friction piles transfer the load to the soil through friction.

• Load bearing piles are designed to support the weight of the structure and transfer it to the soil below.

• Friction piles rely on the friction between the pile and the soil to transfer the load to the ground.

• Load bearing piles are commonly made of concrete or steel while friction piles are usually made of timber or concrete.

• Examples of load bearing piles in...read more

Concreting refers to the process of pouring, setting, and hardening concrete to form structures.

• Mixing cement, aggregates, and water to form a paste

• Pouring the mixture into formwork to shape it

• Allowing the concrete to set and harden over time

• Commonly used in construction of buildings, bridges, roads, etc.

Stiffness affects the time period by influencing the natural frequency of a structure.

• Higher stiffness leads to a shorter time period for a structure to complete a cycle of vibration.

• Lower stiffness results in a longer time period for a structure.

• Stiffness affects the natural frequency of a structure, which in turn determines the time period of vibration.

• For example, a high-rise building with a very stiff structure will have a shorter time period for swaying during an earthqu...read more

To start plaster, prepare the surface, mix the plaster, apply the plaster, and finish the surface.

• Clean and dampen the surface to be plastered

• Mix the plaster according to instructions

• Apply the plaster in thin layers, starting from the bottom

• Smooth and level the surface with a trowel

• Allow the plaster to dry and cure before painting or decorating

• Use corner beads to reinforce corners and edges

There are three types of roads: National Highways, State Highways, and Village Roads.

• National Highways are maintained by the central government and connect major cities and towns.

• State Highways are maintained by the state government and connect district headquarters and important cities.

• Village Roads are maintained by the local government and connect villages to nearby towns and cities.

• Other types of roads include expressways, ring roads, and arterial roads.

• Expressways are hi...read more

Grade of concrete and cement are important factors in construction.

• Grade of concrete refers to its strength and durability.

• Grade of cement refers to its compressive strength.

• Concrete grades range from M5 to M80.

• Cement grades include 33, 43, and 53.

• Higher grades of cement are used for stronger concrete.