Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Three Phase • Coupling • Home Run

Circuit Breaker

Term from Electrical Installation industry explained for recruiters

A Circuit Breaker is a safety device that automatically stops electrical power when something goes wrong, like when too much power is flowing or there's a short circuit. Think of it like a safety valve that cuts off electricity to prevent fires or damage to equipment. Unlike older fuses that need replacement after they trip, circuit breakers can be reset and used again. Electricians work with different types and sizes of circuit breakers depending on whether they're installing them in homes, commercial buildings, or industrial facilities.

Examples in Resumes

Installed and maintained Circuit Breaker systems in commercial buildings

Upgraded outdated fuse boxes to modern Circuit Breakers

Performed regular testing and maintenance of Circuit Breaker panels

Diagnosed and replaced faulty Circuit Breakers in industrial settings

Typical job title: "Electricians"

Also try searching for:

Electrical Installer Electrical Technician Industrial Electrician Commercial Electrician Maintenance Electrician Electrical Systems Specialist

Where to Find Electricians

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine the appropriate size and type of circuit breaker for different applications?

Expected Answer: A senior electrician should explain how they consider factors like voltage requirements, current load, environment (indoor/outdoor), and local electrical codes to select the right circuit breaker. They should mention calculation methods and safety margins.

Q: What steps do you take when troubleshooting a repeatedly tripping circuit breaker?

Expected Answer: Should describe a systematic approach: checking for overloaded circuits, looking for short circuits, inspecting wire conditions, testing the breaker itself, and using proper testing equipment. Should emphasize safety procedures and documentation.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Explain the difference between different types of circuit breakers and their uses.

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain common types like standard, GFCI, and AFCI breakers in simple terms, including where each type is typically used and why.

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working with circuit breakers?

Expected Answer: Should discuss proper lockout/tagout procedures, using testing equipment to verify power is off, wearing appropriate safety gear, and following local safety regulations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: How do you reset a circuit breaker and what should you check before doing so?

Expected Answer: Should explain the basic process of resetting a breaker, including checking for obvious problems, unplugging devices on the circuit, and the proper technique for switching the breaker.

Q: What are the signs that a circuit breaker needs replacement?

Expected Answer: Should identify common signs like frequent tripping, physical damage, burning smell, hot to touch, or age of the breaker as indicators for replacement.