Service Panel
A Service Panel, also known as an electrical panel or breaker box, is the central hub that controls and distributes electricity throughout a building. It's like the heart of a building's electrical system, where the main power supply enters and is then split into smaller circuits that power different areas. Electricians work with these panels to install, maintain, and upgrade them to ensure safe and efficient power distribution. When you see this term in a resume, it usually indicates experience with a crucial part of electrical systems that requires specific safety knowledge and expertise.
Examples in Resumes
Installed and upgraded Service Panels in residential buildings to meet current safety codes
Performed maintenance and troubleshooting on Service Panels and Electrical Panels
Led team of electricians in Breaker Box and Service Panel installations for commercial properties
Typical job title: "Electrical Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Electrical Technicians
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle the planning and coordination of a large commercial service panel upgrade?
Expected Answer: A senior electrician should discuss project planning, safety procedures, coordination with building management, scheduling power outages, obtaining permits, and managing team members.
Q: What factors do you consider when sizing a service panel for a building?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they calculate power needs based on building size, equipment requirements, future expansion needs, and code compliance requirements in simple terms.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working on a service panel?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic safety protocols like power shutdown verification, proper lockout/tagout procedures, using protective equipment, and following local safety regulations.
Q: How do you troubleshoot a circuit breaker that keeps tripping?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of identifying overloaded circuits, checking for short circuits, and inspecting for damaged wiring or equipment.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the main components of a service panel?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify and explain basic parts like main breaker, circuit breakers, bus bars, and neutral/ground bars in simple terms.
Q: What tools do you use when working on service panels?
Expected Answer: Should list basic electrical tools like voltage testers, wire strippers, screwdrivers, and explain their safe use.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic panel inspection and maintenance
- Installing simple circuit breakers
- Reading electrical diagrams
- Basic safety procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Panel upgrades and replacements
- Troubleshooting electrical issues
- Code compliance knowledge
- Working with different panel types
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex installation planning
- Team supervision
- Advanced troubleshooting
- Project management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of proper safety certification
- No experience with electrical codes and regulations
- Unable to read electrical diagrams
- No knowledge of proper grounding techniques
Related Terms
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