17 High Voltage Electrician Interview Questions and Answers

High voltage electricians are responsible for the maintenance and repair of high voltage equipment and systems. They work in a variety of settings, including power plants, factories, and office buildings.

Before you can start your new job, you’ll need to go through a job interview. High voltage electrician interview questions will focus on your technical skills, your experience working with high voltage equipment, and your ability to troubleshoot problems.

To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve put together a list of sample questions and answers.

Are you certified as a high voltage electrician?

Employers may ask this question to see if you have the necessary certifications for the job. If you are not certified, explain what steps you took to get your certification and when you plan on getting it.

Example: “I am currently working toward my high voltage electrician certification through the National Electrical Certification Institute. I started taking courses last year and should be finished by next month. I think having a certification is important because it shows that I’m qualified for the job and know how to do it safely.”

What are the differences between low voltage and high voltage electrical systems?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the industry and how it works. High voltage electrical systems are more complex than low voltage ones, so you should be able to explain what makes them different in terms of their components, applications and safety measures.

Example: “Low voltage systems operate at less than 50 volts while high voltage systems operate at more than 1,000 volts. Low voltage systems are used for residential purposes like lighting and appliances while high voltage systems are used for commercial purposes like power plants and transmission lines. In addition to this, there are many other differences between these two systems. For example, low voltage systems use copper wires while high voltage systems use aluminum wires.”

How would you troubleshoot a high voltage circuit that was malfunctioning?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to work independently. Your answer should include a step-by-step process for troubleshooting the circuit, including how you identify the issue and what tools you use to fix it.

Example: “I would first check all of the connections on the circuit breaker panel and make sure they are secure. If that doesn’t solve the problem, I would then inspect the wiring in the high voltage area for any loose or damaged wires. After making repairs, I would test the circuit by flipping the switch back on.”

What is your process for inspecting and testing high voltage equipment before, during and after installation?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your knowledge of industry standards and practices. Use examples from your experience that show how you adhere to safety protocols, use testing equipment and interpret test results.

Example: “I always start by reviewing the client’s specifications for installation and maintenance before I begin any work on high voltage equipment. This helps me determine what tools and materials I need to bring with me to the job site and ensures that I have everything necessary to complete the project safely. Before installing new equipment, I first test all components to ensure they are functioning properly. Then, once the equipment is installed, I perform regular inspections and tests to make sure it’s working as intended.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to deal with an irate customer and how you resolved the situation.

Employers ask this question to see how you handle conflict and resolve problems. They want to know that you can be diplomatic when working with customers, even if they’re upset or angry. In your answer, try to show that you are empathetic and willing to help the customer in any way possible.

Example: “I once had a customer who was unhappy with our work because of an electrical issue. I went out to their home to assess the situation and found that there were several issues causing the problem. The customer was upset about having to pay for additional repairs, but I explained that we would do everything we could to fix the issue at no extra cost. We ended up fixing all of the issues at no charge, which made the customer happy.”

If you could start over as a high voltage electrician, what would you do differently?

This question is a great way to see how much an applicant has learned from their past experiences. It also shows the interviewer that you’re willing to learn and grow as a professional. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something specific about your previous job that you would change or something you wish you had known when starting out.

Example: “If I could start over as a high voltage electrician, I would have started my career with a company like yours. I’ve always wanted to work for a large corporation where I could gain experience working on big projects. If I knew then what I know now, I would have focused more on gaining experience in larger companies rather than smaller ones.”

What would you do if you noticed a coworker was not following safety protocols?

High voltage electricians must follow strict safety protocols to ensure their own well-being and the safety of those around them. Employers ask this question to make sure you understand the importance of following these protocols and how you would react if a coworker did not. In your answer, explain that you would first try to educate the coworker on why they should be following the protocol. If they still do not comply, you would report it to your supervisor so they can handle the situation.

Example: “I believe in being an active participant in my own safety. I know that if everyone followed all safety protocols, we could avoid many accidents. If I noticed a coworker was not following a safety protocol, I would first approach them privately to see if there was a reason for their behavior. If they were aware of the protocol but chose to ignore it, I would report it to my supervisor so they could address the issue.”

How well do you work under pressure?

High voltage electricians often work in high-pressure situations. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle the pressure of working on a construction site and completing your tasks on time. In your answer, explain how you manage stress and stay focused when there’s a lot riding on your performance.

Example: “I thrive under pressure because I know that it makes me perform better. When I’m working on a tight deadline, I use my experience to guide me through the process of finding solutions to problems quickly. This helps me avoid mistakes and complete projects before the deadline.”

Do you prefer to work independently or on a team?

High voltage electricians often work independently, but they may also be part of a team. Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you interact with others. In your answer, try to explain why you prefer one over the other. You can share an example from your experience that shows what working on a team or independently is like.

Example: “I enjoy both working independently and as part of a team. I find that when I’m working independently, I have more time to think through my solutions. However, I really appreciate being able to bounce ideas off of others. When I worked at my last job, we had a problem where two wires were touching each other. I was unsure if it was safe to continue working, so I asked another coworker for their opinion. They told me that it was okay to keep working because there wasn’t enough electricity to cause any damage.”

When is it appropriate to call a supervisor to the job site?

High voltage electricians may need to call their supervisors to the job site for a variety of reasons. Employers ask this question to make sure you know when it’s appropriate to do so and what to discuss with your supervisor if they come to the job site. In your answer, explain that you would only call your supervisor to the job site if there was an emergency or safety concern.

Example: “I would only call my supervisor to the job site in case of an emergency or safety concern. For example, if I noticed something unsafe about the equipment we were using, I would immediately call my supervisor to the job site so they could assess the situation and take any necessary action.”

We want to improve our customer service. How would you approach a customer who was dissatisfied with the work you did?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle customer complaints and what steps you take to ensure the issue doesn’t happen again. In your answer, try to explain how you would resolve the situation while also showing that you value customers’ opinions.

Example: “If a customer was dissatisfied with my work, I would first apologize for their experience and ask them to describe exactly what they were unhappy about. Then, I would offer to fix the problem or refund their money if it’s within our policy. If not, I would discuss other options with the customer like offering discounts on future services or sending someone else out to complete the job.”

Describe your experience with using computer-aided design software.

High voltage electricians use computer-aided design software to create and edit electrical plans. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience using CAD software, which can be a valuable skill for the job. Before your interview, try to find out what specific programs they use in their company. If you are not familiar with them, explain that you are willing to learn new software if hired.

Example: “I am very experienced with using computer-aided design software. I started working as an apprentice high voltage electrician when computers were just starting to become more common in the industry. At first, we used paper blueprints, but eventually switched to digital files. I learned how to use CAD software quickly and efficiently. Now, I prefer it over traditional methods.”

What makes you stand out from other high voltage electricians?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your skills and abilities as a high voltage electrician. High voltage electricians are responsible for working with dangerous equipment, so employers want to make sure you have the right qualifications for the job. In your answer, share two or three of your strongest skills that relate to this position.

Example: “I am highly organized and detail-oriented, which makes me an excellent candidate for this role. I understand how important it is to keep accurate records of all work performed on electrical systems. Another skill that makes me stand out from other candidates is my ability to solve problems quickly. When unexpected issues arise, I can assess the situation and find a solution.”

Which electrical codes do you have the most experience with?

High voltage electricians must be familiar with electrical codes. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working in their area’s specific code. Before your interview, research the local and national electrical codes for the company. In your answer, explain which codes you’re most experienced with and why they are important to you.

Example: “I’ve worked primarily in the National Electrical Code. I find it to be a great reference when troubleshooting issues on high voltage projects. However, I also understand that each state has its own unique set of rules. If I were hired here, I would take the time to learn about the local codes so I can work safely.”

What do you think is the most important skill for a high voltage electrician to have?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand what skills you value most. High voltage electricians need a variety of skills, so it’s important to show that you have them all. Some examples include:

Communication Safety awareness Problem-solving Example: “I think communication is one of the most important skills for high voltage electricians because we work in teams with other electrical professionals. It’s also important to be able to communicate clearly when working on live wires. I’ve always been good at communicating with others, especially when there are safety concerns. For example, if I see something unsafe or am unsure about how to complete a task, I make sure to speak up.”

How often do you perform routine maintenance on your equipment?

High voltage equipment requires regular maintenance to ensure it’s safe and operational. Employers ask this question to make sure you understand the importance of routine maintenance and how often you perform it. In your answer, explain that you know when to schedule maintenance for high-voltage equipment and what steps you take to do so.

Example: “I am very familiar with the best ways to maintain my tools and equipment. I have a system in place where I check all of my tools before each job and after every use. This helps me identify any issues or problems early on so I can fix them right away. If I notice something is wrong, I will immediately stop working until I can repair the issue.”

There is a bug on your arm. What is your reaction?

This question is a behavioral one that tests your problem-solving skills. It also shows the interviewer how you react to unexpected situations and whether you can remain calm under pressure. Your answer should show that you are able to stay focused in stressful situations, while remaining calm and collected.

Example: “I would first try to get rid of it myself by shaking my arm or using a tissue. If this doesn’t work, I will politely ask for help from someone else so as not to disturb others. Then, I will calmly wait until the person comes back with a bug spray.”