Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Thermography • Lockout/Tagout • PPE

Motor Controls

Term from Industrial Equipment Maintenance industry explained for recruiters

Motor Controls are systems that manage how industrial motors start, stop, and run. Think of them as the 'brains' that control machines in factories, production lines, and industrial equipment. They help keep machines running safely and efficiently, kind of like a sophisticated light switch system but for industrial equipment. These systems can be either traditional electrical switches and buttons (called electrical controls) or modern computer-based systems (called electronic controls). When someone mentions motor controls in their resume, they're talking about their ability to work with these systems that make industrial motors work properly.

Examples in Resumes

Troubleshot and repaired Motor Controls in manufacturing equipment

Installed and programmed Motor Control systems for conveyor belts

Maintained Motor Controls and Motor Control Systems for industrial machinery

Updated outdated Motor Control Units to modern electronic systems

Typical job title: "Motor Control Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Industrial Electrician Maintenance Technician Controls Technician Electrical Maintenance Technician Industrial Controls Technician Manufacturing Technician Automation Technician

Where to Find Motor Control Technicians

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain how you would troubleshoot a motor that's drawing too much power?

Expected Answer: A senior technician should describe a systematic approach: checking power supply, inspecting mechanical components, testing control circuits, and using diagnostic tools to identify the root cause. They should mention safety procedures and documentation of the process.

Q: How would you plan and execute a facility-wide motor control system upgrade?

Expected Answer: Should discuss project planning, risk assessment, equipment selection, minimizing production downtime, training requirements for staff, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working with motor controls?

Expected Answer: Should mention lockout/tagout procedures, proper use of testing equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), and following electrical safety guidelines.

Q: How do you maintain documentation for motor control systems?

Expected Answer: Should explain keeping records of maintenance, repairs, modifications, creating clear labeling systems, and updating electrical diagrams when changes are made.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of a motor control system?

Expected Answer: Should identify main parts like starters, switches, overload protection, and basic control circuits. Should show understanding of how these parts work together.

Q: How do you read a basic motor control wiring diagram?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic electrical symbols, ability to trace circuits, and explain the relationship between control and power circuits.