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Electrician Interview Questions (+answers)
Electrician Interview Questions (+answers)
These Electrician interview questions will help you look for important skills among your candidates. Adjust them to fit
How do you know whether an outlet was grounded properly? What do you do to ground it?
How can you prevent high-voltage electrical systems from breaking down?
If you had to install a new system at an entire floor of a building, where would you start?
Here are 10 essential interview questions and sample answers to help identify the best candidates for this role.
1. How do you know whether an outlet was grounded properly? What do you do to ground it?
This question assesses the candidate’s understanding of electrical safety and grounding procedures.
Sample answer:
“I would use a circuit tester to check if the outlet is grounded. If it’s not, I would turn off the power, open the outlet, and
This question evaluates the candidate’s problem-solving skills and their approach to common electrical issues.
Sample answer:
“First, I’d check the main circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. Then, I’d inspect individual circuits and use a multimeter
3. How can you prevent high-voltage electrical systems from breaking down?
This question gauges the candidate’s preventive maintenance skills and understanding of high-voltage systems.
Sample answer:
“Regular inspections and maintenance are key. I’d also ensure that all components meet the manufacturer’s
This question tests the candidate’s knowledge of first aid and emergency procedures in electrical work.
Sample answer:
“I would immediately turn off the power source, if possible, and call for medical assistance. I’d also administer first aid if
5. If you had to install a new system at an entire floor of a building, where would you start?
This question assesses the candidate’s project management and planning skills.
Sample answer:
“I’d start by reviewing the blueprints and electrical codes. Then, I’d plan the wiring routes and calculate the materials
This question helps to understand the candidate’s experience in different work environments.
Sample answer:
“I have three years of experience in industrial settings, focusing on machinery installation and maintenance.”
This question evaluates the candidate’s learning curve and how they handle challenges.
Sample answer:
“The most challenging part was learning to troubleshoot complex circuits, but I overcame it through hands-on practice
and study.”
This question tests the candidate’s knowledge of electrical standards and regulations.
Sample answer:
“Yes, I am well-versed in the NEC and always ensure my work is compliant with it.”
Sample answer:
“Overlamping is using a bulb with a higher wattage than a fixture can handle. It’s dangerous because it can melt the
This question gauges the candidate’s familiarity with essential electrical tools.
Sample answer:
“A multimeter is used for measuring voltage, current, and resistance. It’s crucial for troubleshooting and verifying the
integrity of circuits.”
A good electrician candidate should have a strong grasp of electrical concepts, be safety-conscious, and have good
problem-solving skills. Experience in various settings and familiarity with electrical codes are also important.
Jump to section:
• Introduction
• Operational and Situational questions
• Role-specific questions
• Behavioral questions
Electrician Interview Questions
Electricians are the people you call when you have an electrical problem or want to install an electrical system. Hiring for
one can be tricky since, apart from theoretical knowledge, you need people who respect safety precautions, work well in
Requirements will vary depending on whether you’re hiring for an apprentice, a journeyman electrician or a master
electrician. Apprentices should be motivated and able to follow instructions to the letter. With other candidates, ask
questions to determine the level of their technical expertise and ability to solve problems. Master electricians also need
leadership skills and knowledge of regulations and processes (e.g. acquiring permits or building codes).
Role specific questions should be tailored according to the industry you operate in. For example, someone working in an
industrial setting may need a different skillset than one who works as a service electrician. Additionally, electricians
employed by construction companies will need specialized knowledge such as installing complete electrical systems
from scratch. The following questions provide examples on how to assess candidates effectively.
Let’s summarize some of the questions and add a few more divided into specific types.
• How do you know whether an outlet was grounded properly? What do you do to ground it?
• Walk me through your process of troubleshooting a blackout
• How can you prevent high-voltage electrical systems from breaking down?
• What would you do if a coworker got an electric shock?
• If you had to install a new system at an entire floor of a building, where would you start?
• If a master electrician yelled at you for something you had done wrong, what would be your reaction?
Role-specific questions
Behavioral questions
Pro tip: Licensure varies depending on location. Make sure you check the legal requirements and screen out candidates
who don’t meet them. As this profession is often unionized, make sure you know of the union’s guidelines as well before
you hire.