Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Queen Marking • Boardman Feeder • Outer Cover

Foundation

Term from Beekeeping industry explained for recruiters

A foundation in beekeeping refers to pre-made wax or plastic sheets with a hexagonal pattern that beekeepers place inside hive frames. These sheets give bees a starting point to build their honeycomb, saving them time and energy. Think of it like providing bees with a blueprint for their home. Some beekeepers call these "foundation sheets," "honeycomb foundation," or "beeswax foundation." It's similar to giving workers a partially built structure instead of making them start from scratch.

Examples in Resumes

Managed 50 hives using plastic Foundation to increase honey production by 30%

Trained new beekeepers in proper Foundation installation techniques

Experimented with different types of Foundation (wax and plastic) to optimize bee acceptance rates

Typical job title: "Beekeepers"

Also try searching for:

Apiarist Bee Farmer Apiary Manager Honey Producer Bee Specialist Colony Manager

Where to Find Beekeepers

Online Communities

Professional Organizations

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you decide which type of foundation to use in different situations?

Expected Answer: An experienced beekeeper should discuss factors like seasonal timing, honey production goals, cost considerations, and bee acceptance rates for different foundation types (plastic vs. wax). They should also mention experience with various brands and installation methods.

Q: What methods do you use to prevent foundation failure in large-scale operations?

Expected Answer: Should explain proper storage techniques, installation methods, wire reinforcement options, and how to identify and prevent common issues like sagging or warping. Should also discuss managing foundation across multiple apiaries.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you prepare and install foundation properly?

Expected Answer: Should describe the complete process of frame preparation, proper foundation installation techniques, use of support wires if necessary, and common mistakes to avoid.

Q: What are the signs that foundation needs to be replaced?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify signs of aging foundation, damage patterns, when to replace versus repair, and how to properly remove and replace foundation in existing hives.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the different types of foundation available?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic differences between wax and plastic foundation, common sizes, and basic advantages and disadvantages of each type.

Q: Why is foundation important in beekeeping?

Expected Answer: Should explain how foundation helps bees build straight combs, saves bees energy, increases honey production, and helps with hive management.