10+ Senior Estimation Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

The shear wall cross-sectional area to built-up area ratio is specified in building codes.

• The ratio is typically between 0.05 and 0.10.

• The code requirements vary depending on the seismic zone and building type.

• For example, in seismic zone 4, the ratio for reinforced concrete buildings is 0.10.

• The ratio is important for ensuring the structural integrity of the building during earthquakes.

Factors affecting the budget include project scope, labor costs, material costs, market conditions, and unexpected changes.

• Project scope: The size and complexity of the project can greatly impact the budget.

• Labor costs: The cost of labor, including wages and benefits, can significantly affect the budget.

• Material costs: The cost of materials needed for the project can fluctuate and impact the budget.

• Market conditions: Economic factors such as inflation, supply and demand, and ...read more

Commercial terms and conditions refer to the agreed upon terms between parties in a business transaction.

• Commercial terms include payment terms, delivery terms, warranties, and liabilities.

• Conditions may include pricing, discounts, returns, and penalties for breach of contract.

• Examples of commercial terms and conditions are net 30 payment terms, FOB shipping point, and limited warranty.

• Negotiating favorable terms can help protect the interests of both parties involved.

Columns are vertical members that support the load of the structure while shear walls resist lateral forces.

• Columns are primarily designed to support vertical loads while shear walls are designed to resist lateral forces.

• Shear walls are typically thicker and stiffer than columns to resist lateral loads.

• Columns are spaced apart while shear walls are continuous throughout the height of the building.

• Examples of shear walls include elevator and stair cores, while columns are foun...read more

Building perimeter to builtup area ratio is a measure of how compact a building is.

• It is calculated by dividing the perimeter of the building by its built-up area.

• A higher ratio indicates a more compact building.

• This ratio is important in urban planning and zoning regulations.

• For example, a building with a large perimeter and small built-up area may not be allowed in certain areas.

• The ratio can also affect the cost of construction and maintenance.

• Different types of buildings ...read more

Detailed rate per sqft of all activities in a building is typically provided in a cost estimation document.

• Rates can vary based on the type of activity (e.g. flooring, painting, electrical work, plumbing, etc.)

• Rates may also vary based on the quality of materials and finishes used

• Labor costs, equipment costs, and overhead costs are typically included in the rate per sqft

• Rates may be provided by contractors, estimators, or based on industry standards

Building constants are important for estimating material quantities and costs.

• Concrete has a density of 2400 kg/m³ and a compressive strength of 20-40 MPa.

• Steel has a density of 7850 kg/m³ and a yield strength of 250-500 MPa.

• Other important constants include thermal expansion coefficients and modulus of elasticity.

• These constants can vary depending on the specific type and grade of material being used.

Proposals are made by gathering project requirements, estimating costs, creating a detailed scope of work, and submitting a formal document to the client.

• Gather project requirements from the client or through a request for proposal (RFP)

• Estimate costs including materials, labor, equipment, and overhead expenses

• Create a detailed scope of work outlining the project deliverables, timeline, and milestones

• Submit a formal proposal document to the client for review and approval

• Revis...read more

Rolling margin of steel is the difference between the theoretical weight and the actual weight of a steel plate after rolling.

• Rolling margin is calculated by subtracting the actual weight of the steel plate from the theoretical weight.

• It is important to consider rolling margin when estimating the weight of steel plates for a project.

• Rolling margin can vary depending on the thickness and width of the steel plate.

• For example, a 1-inch thick steel plate with a width of 48 inches...read more

QS stands for Quantity Surveyor, a professional who manages all costs relating to building and civil engineering projects.

• QS is responsible for estimating and monitoring construction costs.

• They prepare tender documents, contracts, budgets, bills of quantities, and other financial documents.

• QS also assesses the value of work done on site and advises on legal and contractual issues.

• Examples of QS tasks include cost planning, cost control, and value engineering.

I have experience using in4suit ERP software.

• I have used in4suit for estimating project costs and tracking expenses.

• I am familiar with its features such as inventory management and purchase order creation.

• I have also trained team members on how to use the software effectively.

• I have experience troubleshooting issues and providing technical support for in4suit.