Service Entrance

Term from Electrical Installation industry explained for recruiters

A Service Entrance is the main point where electrical power enters a building from the utility company's power lines. It's like the 'front door' for electricity in a building. This includes the cables, conduit (protective tubing), meter socket, and main electrical panel. When this term appears in resumes, it usually refers to experience with installing, maintaining, or upgrading these main power connection points in homes or commercial buildings. Other common names for this are 'electrical service entrance' or 'main service'.

Examples in Resumes

Installed Service Entrance systems for new residential construction projects

Upgraded outdated Service Entrance equipment to meet current electrical codes

Performed maintenance and repairs on Service Entrance and Electrical Service components

Certified in Service Entrance installation and Main Service upgrades

Typical job title: "Electrical Service Installers"

Also try searching for:

Electrician Electrical Installer Service Electrician Residential Electrician Commercial Electrician Master Electrician Licensed Electrician

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine the appropriate service entrance size for a large commercial building?

Expected Answer: A senior electrician should explain how they calculate power needs based on the building's size, equipment, and future expansion possibilities. They should mention load calculations, code requirements, and coordination with utility companies.

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when upgrading a service entrance?

Expected Answer: Should discuss utility company coordination, proper shutdown procedures, safety equipment, permits required, and how to ensure the safety of both workers and building occupants during the upgrade.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the main components of a service entrance and their functions?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic parts: service drop/lateral, meter base, main disconnect, grounding system, and service panel, in simple terms with their purposes.

Q: How do you ensure a service entrance installation meets code requirements?

Expected Answer: Should discuss familiarity with local electrical codes, proper documentation, inspection processes, and common compliance issues.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What safety equipment is required when working on a service entrance?

Expected Answer: Should list basic safety gear like insulated gloves, safety glasses, proper tools, and understanding of lockout/tagout procedures.

Q: Explain the difference between overhead and underground service entrances.

Expected Answer: Should describe basic differences in installation methods, materials used, and when each type is typically used in residential settings.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic electrical safety practices
  • Assisting with service entrance installations
  • Understanding of basic electrical codes
  • Tool and equipment handling

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Independent service entrance installations
  • Troubleshooting electrical issues
  • Code compliance knowledge
  • Basic load calculations

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex installation planning
  • Team supervision
  • Advanced problem solving
  • Permit and inspection coordination

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No license or certification when required by state/local laws
  • Lack of safety awareness or proper procedures
  • No experience with local electrical codes
  • Unable to read electrical blueprints or diagrams