Oben Electric Charging Infrastructure Lead Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation

What the job involves

A Charging Infrastructure Lead at an EV company like Oben Electric plans, deploys, and maintains charging stations for electric two-wheelers and four-wheelers. The role involves site surveys, coordinating with electrical contractors, managing vendor relationships, and ensuring uptime and safety of chargers. You also work on network expansion strategy, cost optimisation, and integration with app-based charging platforms.

Role and Technical Knowledge

1. 1

   What are the different types of EV chargers available in India, and which one would you recommend for a two-wheeler charging station?

   Mention AC slow chargers (3.3 kW), DC fast chargers, and Bharat AC-001. For two-wheelers, AC slow chargers are cost-effective and sufficient for overnight or long-duration parking.

2. 2

   How do you calculate the electrical load for a charging station with four 7.4 kW AC chargers?

   Sum the connected load (4 x 7.4 = 29.6 kW), apply a diversity factor (e.g., 0.8), and consider future expansion. Also mention transformer sizing and cable ratings.

3. 3

   What are the key safety measures you would ensure during installation of a charging station?

   Cover proper earthing, MCB/RCCB protection, IP-rated enclosures, surge protection, and adherence to IS 17017 and CEA regulations. Mention regular inspection and emergency shutdown.

4. 4

   Explain the role of OCPP in charging infrastructure and why it matters for a company like Oben Electric.

   OCPP is an open protocol for communication between chargers and a central management system. It enables remote monitoring, firmware updates, and user authentication, which helps manage a distributed network efficiently.

Practical Scenarios

1. 5

   You need to set up a charging station in a residential society in Bengaluru. What steps will you take from site survey to commissioning?

   Outline site survey (parking space, electrical room, load availability), discuss with society committee, design layout, procure equipment, coordinate with licensed electrician, obtain approvals, install, test, and commission. Mention user training and signage.

2. 6

   A charger at a busy location is frequently going offline. How would you troubleshoot and resolve the issue?

   Check power supply, network connectivity, firmware version, and error logs. If hardware fault, dispatch technician. If network issue, consider SIM replacement or signal booster. Document root cause and preventive actions.

3. 7

   How would you decide between AC and DC chargers for a new highway corridor project?

   Consider traffic volume, average dwell time, cost, and grid capacity. DC fast chargers suit quick top-ups for long-distance travel, while AC is cheaper for destination charging. A mix may be optimal.

4. 8

   You have a limited budget to expand charging network in a city. How would you prioritise locations?

   Use data on EV density, footfall, proximity to highways, and partnership opportunities. Prioritise high-utilisation spots like malls, offices, and metro stations. Consider revenue-sharing models with hosts.

Behavioural and Situational

1. 9

   Tell me about a time you had to coordinate with multiple vendors or team members to complete a project. What was your approach?

   Use STAR method. Highlight clear communication, setting timelines, follow-ups, and conflict resolution. Emphasise outcome and learning.

2. 10

   Describe a situation where you faced a technical failure or deadline pressure. How did you handle it?

   Show ownership, quick thinking, and prioritisation. Mention how you kept stakeholders informed and implemented a workaround. Conclude with preventive measures.

3. 11

   Why do you want to work in EV charging infrastructure, and why Oben Electric?

   Connect personal interest in sustainability and technology with Oben Electric's focus on electric two-wheelers and charging solutions. Show awareness of the company's products and mission.

4. 12

   How would you handle a situation where a customer is angry about a non-functional charger?

   Emphasise empathy, active listening, and immediate action. Apologise, explain steps being taken, provide timeline, and follow up. Mention logging complaint and learning from it.

HR and Company Fit

1. 13

   What do you know about Oben Electric and its charging infrastructure plans?

   Research Oben Electric's electric motorcycle models, their charging network, and recent news. Mention their focus on fast-charging and battery swapping if applicable.

2. 14

   Where do you see yourself in three years in this role?

   Show ambition to grow into a senior infrastructure manager, leading larger projects, and contributing to network strategy. Align with company growth.

3. 15

   Are you willing to travel frequently to sites across the city or other cities?

   Be honest but positive. Express willingness to travel for site visits and commissioning, as it is core to the role. Mention adaptability.

4. 16

   What are your salary expectations for this fresher role?

   Research industry standards for EV infrastructure roles in India. Give a range based on company size and location. Show flexibility and focus on learning.