How to Prepare for a Technical Interview in Engineering

25th September 2025

Preparing for a job interview can be nerve-wracking, but when it comes to a technical interview in engineering, the stakes can feel even higher. That’s why it’s vital to know exactly how to Prepare for a Technical Interview. These interviews are designed to assess not only your knowledge and technical ability but also how you apply problem-solving skills in real-world situations. The good news? With the right preparation, you can approach your interview with confidence and make a lasting impression.

What Is a Technical Interview in Engineering?

A technical interview goes beyond traditional competency or HR questions. Employers use it to test your practical skills, industry knowledge, and ability to think on your feet. This might include:

• Problem-solving exercises or design challenges
• Technical questions related to your discipline (civil, electrical, mechanical, rail, water, etc.)
• Software or modelling tasks
• Explaining complex engineering concepts clearly
• Reviewing your past project experience in detail

Understanding what’s expected is the first step towards success.

👉 Looking for broader advice on standing out in the job market? Read our blog on How to Stand Out as an Engineering Candidate in a Competitive Job Market.

Top Tips to Prepare for a Technical Interview in engineering

1. Refresh Your Technical Knowledge

Revisit the core principles of your discipline. Brush up on industry standards, calculations, and common methodologies. Many interviewers include quick technical questions to test baseline knowledge.

2. Review Your Project Portfolio

Expect to discuss previous projects in depth. Be ready to explain your role, key challenges, solutions you proposed, and results achieved. Using frameworks like STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can help you structure clear answers.

3. Practise Problem-Solving Out Loud

Interviewers want to see how you approach challenges. Practise explaining your thought process while solving example problems—it shows logical thinking, communication skills, and confidence.

4. Brush Up on Software & Tools

If your discipline uses specific programmes (AutoCAD, Revit, MATLAB, GIS, BIM software), make sure your knowledge is up to date. You may be asked to complete a practical task or walk through how you’ve used a tool on a project.

5. Prepare Questions for the Interviewer

A technical interview is also your chance to learn about the role and employer. Ask about current projects, technologies, and how teams collaborate. Intelligent questions demonstrate genuine interest.

👉 Want to know more about the recruitment journey? Take a look at What to Expect from an Engineering Recruitment Agency.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Over-complicating answers – Keep explanations clear and concise.
• Focusing only on technical detail – Employers also assess teamwork, communication, and leadership potential.
• Not linking back to the job – Tailor answers to the role you’re applying for, showing how your skills meet their needs.

👉 Already thinking ahead to job offers? Our blog on Negotiating a Salary can help.

How Advance TRS can help you to prepare for a technical interview in engineering

Our consultants work closely with candidates to Prepare for a Technical Interview and succeed at every stage of the recruitment process. At Advance TRS, we:

• Share insights into what specific employers are looking for.
• Provide guidance on the most common technical tests in your sector.
• Help refine your CV and project examples so you can present them with impact.
• Offer coaching on interview technique to boost confidence and clarity.

By partnering with us, you don’t just walk into an interview prepared — you walk in with the knowledge and support of a recruitment team connected across rail, water, highways, aviation, and energy.

A technical interview in engineering is your chance to showcase not only what you know but how you think. With the right preparation, you can demonstrate your expertise, problem-solving ability, and potential to add value to any team. Whether you’re applying for your first engineering role or progressing into senior management, knowing how to Prepare for a Technical Interview can make all the difference.

👉 Ready to put these tips into practice? Explore our latest jobs, or speak to one of our consultants today.