Ultraviolette Automotive Charging Infrastructure Lead Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation

What the job involves

A Charging Infrastructure Lead plans, deploys, and maintains EV charging networks, including AC and DC fast chargers, for two-wheelers, three-wheelers, or cars. Day to day, you coordinate with site hosts, electrical contractors, and utilities to install chargers, monitor uptime and usage, and improve charging reliability and user experience. You also work on standards compliance, cost optimisation, and scaling the network across cities.

Role and Technical Knowledge

1. 1

   What are the key differences between AC and DC charging for electric two-wheelers, and when would you choose one over the other?

   Explain that AC charging is slower, cheaper, and uses the onboard charger, while DC fast charging bypasses the onboard charger for higher power. For two-wheelers, AC is common for home and workplace, DC for public fast charging. Mention cost, space, and use case.

2. 2

   What is OCPP and why is it important for a charging network?

   OCPP is an open protocol for communication between chargers and a central management system. It enables remote monitoring, firmware updates, and interoperability. Strong answers mention OCPP 1.6J or 2.0.1 and how it helps scale a network.

3. 3

   How would you calculate the electrical load for a site that needs to install five 3.3 kW AC chargers and two 15 kW DC fast chargers?

   Sum the connected load: 5 x 3.3 = 16.5 kW plus 2 x 15 = 30 kW, total 46.5 kW. Then apply a diversity factor if not all chargers run simultaneously. Mention the need for a dedicated transformer or panel and check available sanctioned load.

4. 4

   What safety measures are critical when installing an EV charger in a public parking lot in India?

   Cover proper earthing, RCD/RCBO protection, IP-rated enclosures, cable management, signage, and compliance with local electricity authority norms. Also mention surge protection and emergency stop buttons.

Practical Scenarios

1. 5

   A charger you deployed at a mall is frequently offline. How would you diagnose and fix the issue?

   Start with remote diagnostics via the CMS to check error logs and network status. Then visit the site to inspect power supply, earthing, and hardware. Coordinate with the site host and vendor. Propose a preventive maintenance schedule.

2. 6

   You need to deploy 20 chargers across a city in three months with a limited budget. How would you prioritise locations?

   Prioritise high-footfall areas with existing electrical infrastructure, such as tech parks, malls, and metro stations. Use data on EV density and traffic. Consider partnerships to share costs. Phase deployment and negotiate with vendors.

3. 7

   A site host complains that the charger is drawing too much power and tripping their main breaker. What do you do?

   Assess the actual load versus sanctioned load. Check if the charger settings can be limited or if a separate connection is needed. Explain the situation to the host and propose solutions like load management or upgrading their connection.

4. 8

   How would you improve the utilisation of an underused charging station?

   Analyse usage patterns and pricing. Consider promotional tariffs, better signage, or integrating with aggregator apps. Engage with local EV users and fleet operators. Maybe relocate the charger if the site is poor.

Behavioural and Teamwork

1. 9

   Tell me about a time you had to coordinate with multiple stakeholders to complete a project.

   Use STAR format. Highlight clear communication, setting expectations, and follow-up. Mention any tools used and the outcome.

2. 10

   Describe a situation where you had to learn a new technical concept quickly.

   Show curiosity and self-learning. Mention resources used, how you applied it, and the result. Relate it to EV charging if possible.

3. 11

   How would you handle a disagreement with a senior colleague about the choice of charger technology?

   Emphasise respectful discussion, data-backed arguments, and willingness to listen. Focus on project goals and compromise.

4. 12

   Give an example of a time you failed at something and what you learned.

   Be honest, take ownership, and focus on the lesson and improvement. Avoid blaming others.

HR and Company Fit

1. 13

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

   Show passion for clean mobility and awareness of the company's products or network. Connect your skills to their mission. Avoid generic answers.

2. 14

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

   Express interest in growing into a network planning or operations lead. Mention gaining expertise in standards, scaling networks, and mentoring juniors.

3. 15

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

   Be honest about your flexibility. If yes, emphasise your eagerness to learn on the ground. If no, explain how you can contribute remotely.

4. 16

   What are your salary expectations?

   Research industry standards for freshers in EV roles. Give a range and mention flexibility based on role and growth. Focus on the opportunity to learn.