Orb Energy Charging Infrastructure Lead Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation

What the job involves

A Charging Infrastructure Lead plans, deploys, and maintains EV charging stations for two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and cars. You coordinate with site hosts, electrical contractors, and utilities to install AC and DC chargers, then monitor uptime, usage, and billing. In a fast-growing cleantech firm, you also help size solar-plus-storage for sites and support fleet and retail customers.

Role and Sector Knowledge

1. 1

   What is the difference between AC and DC charging for EVs, and when would you choose each for a site in India?

   Explain power levels (e.g., 3.3 kW to 22 kW AC vs 15 kW to 150 kW DC), use cases (home, fleet, highway), and cost and grid impact. Mention that two- and three-wheelers often use AC or low-power DC.

2. 2

   What are the key steps in setting up a public EV charging station from site survey to commissioning?

   Cover site selection, load availability check, civil and electrical work, charger installation, CMS integration, testing, and safety sign-off. Mention coordination with DISCOM and local authorities.

3. 3

   Which Indian standards and safety codes apply to EV charging infrastructure?

   Refer to AIS-138, IS 17017 series, and CEA safety regulations. Mention earthing, RCD, IP ratings, and fire safety for lithium batteries.

4. 4

   How does solar plus storage change the economics of a charging site?

   Discuss reducing demand charges, using solar during peak tariff hours, and battery for peak shaving. Mention payback period and space constraints in Indian cities.

Technical Deep Dive

1. 5

   A site has a sanctioned load of 50 kW and you need to install four 30 kW DC chargers. What do you do?

   Assess actual simultaneous demand, propose load management or staggered charging, and plan a load upgrade with the DISCOM. Mention cost and timeline trade-offs.

2. 6

   Explain how OCPP works and why it matters for a charging network operator.

   Describe OCPP as an open protocol for charger-to-CMS communication. Cover remote monitoring, firmware updates, and interoperability between charger brands.

3. 7

   How would you calculate the payback period for a 60 kW DC charging hub with 20 sessions per day?

   Estimate capex, electricity cost, tariff per unit sold, and daily revenue. Account for utilization, maintenance, and subsidy. Show a simple calculation.

4. 8

   What are common causes of charger downtime and how do you reduce it?

   List connector wear, software glitches, network issues, and power quality. Suggest preventive maintenance, remote diagnostics, and spare part stocking.

Practical Scenarios

1. 9

   A fleet of 50 electric three-wheelers needs overnight charging at a depot with limited power. How do you design the system?

   Propose staggered charging schedules, smart load management, and possibly battery swapping. Consider charger type, cable management, and safety in a confined space.

2. 10

   A site host complains that the charger is often occupied by a non-EV or idle vehicle. What solutions do you suggest?

   Suggest idle fees, booking via app, CCTV or sensors, and clear signage. Mention community engagement and operator policy.

3. 11

   During monsoon, water enters a charging station's cable trench. What immediate and long-term actions do you take?

   Immediate: shut down power, inspect for damage, and dry components. Long-term: improve drainage, raise plinths, use IP65 enclosures, and add periodic inspections.

4. 12

   You need to convince a mall owner to host a charging station. What data and benefits do you present?

   Highlight increased footfall, dwell time, and green image. Present usage projections, revenue share, and low space requirement. Address their concerns on load and safety.

Behavioural and HR

1. 13

   Tell me about a time you had to coordinate with multiple people to complete a task under a tight deadline.

   Use STAR format. Show clear communication, prioritization, and follow-up. Relate it to a project, event, or internship.

2. 14

   This role involves frequent site visits and travel. How do you handle field work and unpredictable schedules?

   Show willingness to travel, physical readiness, and time management. Mention any prior field or volunteer experience.

3. 15

   Describe a situation where you had to learn a new technical concept quickly. How did you go about it?

   Pick a real example, such as learning a tool or subject for a project. Explain your method: online resources, mentor help, and practice.

4. 16

   Why do you want to work in EV charging infrastructure, and why our company?

   Connect personal interest in clean energy and EVs to the company's growth stage. Mention specific products or projects you admire, and how you can contribute.