Design Engineer Interview Guide: What XNG Asks and How to Answer | Engineer’s Interview Blueprint

Landing a role as a Design Engineer isn’t just about having the technical know-how.  

The interview process can be a challenge, especially when faced with unexpected questions about K factors, BOM, or the difference between third and first angle projection.  

Job seekers often wonder: What will they ask? Will my understanding of manufacturing processes and CAD tools like SolidWorks be enough?  

Moreover, questions surrounding design engineer skills, the design engineer resume, or details of design engineer roles and responsibilities are common, making preparation even more crucial. 

To help you prepare, we’ve gathered real interview questions from XNG.  

These questions will guide you through the topics that might come up and help you prepare for your next interview, ensuring you have a solid grasp on what’s needed to succeed in a design engineer career. 

 Let’s get started.  
 
1. What is the difference between third angle projection and first angle projection? 

In third angle projection, the object is placed between the observer and the projection plane, with views placed on the opposite side of the object (commonly used in the U.S.). In first angle projection, the projection plane is between the observer and the object, with views placed directly behind the object (commonly used in Europe and Asia). 

2. What are some key manufacturing processes? 

Manufacturing processes include casting, molding, machining, joining, forming, and additive manufacturing. These methods help shape, join, and finish materials into usable products. 

3. What is pneumatics? 

Pneumatics is a branch of engineering that uses compressed air or gas to create mechanical motion. It's commonly used in automation systems and machinery like actuators, valves, and air brakes. 

4. Can you describe the K factor? 

The K factor is a ratio that accounts for the material's stretching and compression during bending processes. It helps calculate the neutral axis and bend allowance in sheet metal design. 

5. What materials are commonly used in lathe machines? 

Lathe machines often work with metals like steel, aluminum, and brass, as well as plastics and other machinable materials. The choice of material depends on the part’s function and desired properties. 

6. What are the primary processes done using a lathe machine? 

Lathe processes include turning, facing, drilling, boring, threading, and knurling. These processes shape or modify a workpiece by rotating it against a cutting tool. 

7. What are material cooling processes? 

Material cooling processes involve techniques like quenching, air cooling, and cryogenic cooling. These are used to control material hardness, reduce residual stresses, or achieve specific mechanical properties after heat treatment. 

8. What is a BOM (Bill of Materials)? 

A BOM is a detailed list of all materials, components, and subassemblies required to manufacture a product. It includes part numbers, quantities, and specifications. 

9. What’s the difference between drafting and drawing? 

Drafting refers to the technical representation of a design with precise dimensions and standards, typically used for manufacturing. Drawing is more of a general representation of a design, not always intended for technical production. 

10. Where are rope and pulley systems used in industry? 

Rope and pulley systems are commonly used in lifting applications, such as cranes, elevators, and hoisting systems. They help reduce the effort needed to move heavy loads. 

11. What is CAD? 

CAD (Computer-Aided Design) is software used by engineers and designers to create 2D and 3D models. It improves accuracy, efficiency, and design iteration for products in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. 

12. What are the function manager options in SolidWorks? 

The Feature Manager in SolidWorks organizes all parts, assemblies, and features of your design. It allows users to edit, suppress, or reorder features, as well as manage relationships between components. 

13. What does "concentric" mean in design? 

Concentric refers to two or more circles, arcs, or cylindrical shapes that share the same center point. It is a common design requirement to ensure precision in assembly parts. 

14. How do you know if a sketch is fully defined? 

In CAD software like SolidWorks, a sketch is fully defined when all its dimensions, constraints, and relations are specified. In SolidWorks, fully defined sketches turn black, while under-defined sketches are blue. 

15. Can you tell me about geometrical symbols? 

Geometrical symbols are used in GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) to communicate design specifications like flatness, parallelism, circularity, and concentricity. These symbols help ensure parts meet precise design requirements for manufacturing and assembly.  

Conclusion 

Interviews are your opportunity to showcase your design engineer skills, knowledge, and problem-solving abilities.  

With the real-world design engineer interview questions shared from XNG, you’ll have a clearer idea of what to expect, helping you to feel more confident and prepared. 

With the right mindset, you’ll be ready to secure your position as a Design Engineer.  

With Skill-Lync's Post Graduate Programs, you'll build a rock-solid foundation in all these critical concepts, making you interview-ready in no time. Plus, our Career Experts offer hands-on support through mock interviews, resume workshops, LinkedIn profile optimization, and much more! 

Sign up for a FREE course demo today, and let’s start your journey toward landing that dream job!