Learn what skills and qualities interviewers are looking for from an electrical engineering technologist, what questions you can expect, and how you should go about answering them.
As an electrical engineering technologist, you play a vital role in designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems. Your work helps to keep our homes and businesses running smoothly and efficiently.
If you’re looking for a new job in this field, you’ll need to be prepared to answer a variety of electrical engineering technologist interview questions. In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common questions you’re likely to encounter, along with sample answers to help you prepare for your next interview.
This question is a great way for interviewers to assess your knowledge of the field and determine whether you’re qualified for the role. When answering, it can be helpful to include some basic concepts that electrical engineers use in their work.
Example: “I have a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering technology, so I’m very familiar with the basics of the field. In my previous roles, I’ve used many of these concepts on a daily basis. For example, I know how to calculate voltage, current and resistance. I also understand Ohm’s law and how it relates to other aspects of electrical engineering.”
This question helps the interviewer determine if you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role. Use your answer to highlight your technical, communication and problem-solving skills.
Example: “The most important skill for an electrical engineering technologist is their ability to solve problems. Electrical engineers are often tasked with finding solutions to complex issues. I am always looking for ways to improve processes or create new ones that make my work easier. Another important skill is communication. Electrical engineers need to be able to clearly communicate their ideas to other professionals. This allows us to collaborate on projects and find solutions to challenges.”
This question can help the interviewer assess your troubleshooting skills and ability to apply them in a real-world setting. Use examples from previous experience or describe how you would approach this task if it’s something you’ve never done before.
Example: “I would first determine what caused the malfunctioning system by checking for any errors in the code, hardware or software of the electrical system. If I find an error in the code, I will fix it using my knowledge of computer programming languages. If there are issues with the hardware or software, I will replace these components as needed. Once all of these issues have been resolved, I will test the system to ensure that it is working properly.”
Electrical engineering technologists use electrical schematics to design and create circuits. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the necessary experience using these tools. Before your interview, review some of the schematics you’ve worked with in the past. Think about what they were used for and how you used them.
Example: “In my previous role as an electrical engineer, I was responsible for creating electrical schematics that outlined a circuit’s components and wiring. These schematics helped me determine where there were any issues with the circuit. I also used them to show other engineers how to fix problems or troubleshoot certain situations.”
This question can help the interviewer determine how you apply your problem-solving skills to a variety of electrical engineering projects. Use examples from previous work experiences that highlight your ability to identify and resolve issues in an electrical system.
Example: “In my last position, I was working on a project where we needed to install new wiring for a client’s home theater system. The wiring had to be installed in a way that would allow it to support multiple devices while also being aesthetically pleasing. After installing the wiring, I noticed that some of the outlets were not functioning properly. I tested each outlet individually and determined that one of the outlets was faulty. I replaced the outlet with a new one and then retested all of the outlets to ensure they were functioning correctly.”
This question is a great way to assess your knowledge of the electrical engineering field. It also allows you to show the interviewer that you have an interest in this career path and are passionate about it. When answering, try to choose a specialty that aligns with your skills and experience.
Example: “If I had to choose one specialty, I would definitely go with power generation because I find it fascinating how engineers can create such large-scale energy production facilities. In my last role as an engineer, I was tasked with designing a new power plant for a client. I thoroughly enjoyed researching different types of power plants and determining which type would be best suited for the client’s needs.”
This question can help interviewers understand how you respond to challenges and errors. Your answer should show that you are willing to take responsibility for your actions, learn from mistakes and correct them.
Example: “If I noticed a mistake on a schematic I had drafted, I would first try to determine what caused the error. If it was an honest mistake, I would immediately fix it and make sure my supervisor knew about it so they could check it off their list. If it was due to negligence or carelessness, I would apologize to my team members and explain why I made the mistake. Then, I would redraft the schematic correctly.”
The National Electrical Code is a set of regulations that govern the electrical systems in buildings. Employers ask this question to make sure you have enough knowledge about the NEC to do your job well. When answering, try to show how much you know about the code and its importance. You can also mention any experience you have with it.
Example: “I am very familiar with the National Electrical Code. I’ve been working with it for years now. In my last position, I was responsible for making sure all projects adhered to the NEC. This included checking plans and ensuring they were up-to-date with the latest codes.”
This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with materials that are potentially dangerous. Use your answer to highlight your ability to work safely and efficiently in a hazardous environment.
Example: “Yes, I do have experience working with hazardous materials. In my last role as an electrical engineering technologist, I worked on projects involving highly flammable liquids. My team and I had to ensure we were always wearing appropriate safety equipment when handling these materials. We also had to make sure our workspace was safe for us to be working in at all times. For example, we would only work with these materials during daylight hours so we could see what we were doing.”
This question can help interviewers understand your knowledge of electrical engineering and how you apply it to the workplace. Use examples from your experience to explain when you would call an electrician in for a problem and what you do yourself instead.
Example: “In my last position, I was responsible for maintaining all of our company’s wiring systems. If there were any issues with the wiring that caused power outages or other safety concerns, I would immediately call an electrician in to fix the issue. However, if the wiring just needed some minor repairs, like replacing a loose wire, I could complete those tasks myself.”
Employers want to know that you’re committed to the safety of your coworkers and the public. They may ask this question to see if you have any ideas for improving their company’s safety record. In your answer, explain how you would encourage your colleagues to be safe on the job. Share some strategies you’ve used in the past to improve workplace safety.
Example: “I think it’s important to make sure everyone understands the importance of safety. I would start by making sure all new hires take a class on electrical safety. Then, I’d hold regular training sessions where we could practice our skills under pressure. For example, I might set up a situation where we need to fix an issue while being timed. This way, we can learn about safety but also get better at our jobs.”
This question can help interviewers understand your testing process and how you apply it to the job. Use examples from past projects or experiences to describe your approach to testing electrical systems and equipment, including any specific steps you take during the process.
Example: “I start by analyzing the specifications of the project I’m working on and what my team needs to accomplish. Then, I create a plan for testing the system or equipment that includes all necessary safety precautions. After this, I perform each test methodically and record the results in a logbook. Finally, I analyze the data and make sure everything meets the standards set by the client.”
Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their company. Before your interview, make a list of the skills and experiences that qualify you for this role. Focus on highlighting your most relevant skills and abilities.
Example: “I have five years of experience as an electrical engineering technologist, which makes me highly qualified for this position. I also have extensive knowledge of computer-aided design software, which will help me create innovative solutions for clients. In my previous job, I was responsible for managing projects from start to finish, so I am confident that I can do the same in this role.”
This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience with electrical engineering software. When answering this question, it can be beneficial to mention a few programs you are familiar with and explain how they helped you complete projects in the past.
Example: “I have used several different types of electrical engineering software throughout my career. I started out using AutoCAD for many of my projects, which allowed me to create detailed drawings that were easy to read and understand. Later on, I learned about Solid Edge, which is an advanced program that allows users to design products from start to finish. This program has been very helpful when working on large-scale projects.”
The interviewer may ask this question to assess your commitment to safety and compliance with industry regulations. Your answer should include a brief explanation of why you think safety is important, as well as an example of how you have applied it in your previous work experience.
Example: “Safety is the most important aspect of working with electrical equipment and systems because it ensures that no one gets hurt while performing their job. In my last role, I was tasked with testing the functionality of a new circuit board for a large-scale manufacturing facility. During the test phase, I noticed that there were several issues with the wiring system. Rather than continuing to use the faulty system, I reported the issue to my supervisor so we could fix it before putting the product into production.”
This question can help interviewers understand your experience with electrical systems and equipment. They may also want to know how often you perform maintenance on these systems, which can be an important part of the job. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific time when you performed routine maintenance or discuss what types of maintenance you typically do.
Example: “In my current position as an electrical engineering technologist, I am responsible for performing routine maintenance checks on all electrical systems and equipment in our facility at least once per month. This includes checking the power supply, voltage levels and other factors that could affect the operation of the system. If there are any issues, I report them to my supervisor so they can be addressed.”
This question is a great way to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. When answering this question, it can be helpful to give specific steps you would take to fix the issue as well as how long you think it would take you to complete the task.
Example: “If I were in this situation, I would first make sure that there wasn’t an emergency before starting any diagnostics. Then, I would check all of the equipment’s safety features to ensure they are functioning properly. After that, I would run diagnostic tests on the equipment to see if there was a software or hardware error. If everything checks out, then I would move onto more complex testing procedures.”