Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: PVC Conduit • Delta • Neutral Bar

Sub Panel

Term from Electrical Installation industry explained for recruiters

A Sub Panel is a smaller electrical box that distributes power from the main electrical panel to a specific area of a building. Think of it like a branch of the main power center that helps manage electricity in places like garages, additions to homes, or separate workshop areas. It's similar to having a second power control center that helps spread out the electrical load more efficiently. When you see this term in resumes, it usually refers to experience with installing, maintaining, or upgrading these secondary electrical distribution systems.

Examples in Resumes

Installed Sub Panel systems in 20+ residential garage conversions

Upgraded existing Sub Panels to meet current electrical codes

Performed maintenance and troubleshooting on Sub Panel installations

Typical job title: "Electricians"

Also try searching for:

Residential Electrician Commercial Electrician Electrical Installer Electrical Maintenance Technician Licensed Electrician Master Electrician

Where to Find Electricians

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Online Communities

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine if a location needs a sub panel and what size it should be?

Expected Answer: A senior electrician should explain how they assess power needs, calculate loads, consider future expansions, and ensure compliance with electrical codes. They should mention factors like distance from main panel and space requirements.

Q: What are the key safety considerations when installing a sub panel?

Expected Answer: Should discuss proper grounding, correct wire sizing, maintaining proper clearances, ensuring proper bonding, and following local electrical codes. Should also mention importance of permits and inspections.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the main differences between a main panel and a sub panel?

Expected Answer: Should explain that sub panels are fed from the main panel, have their own circuit breakers, and typically serve a specific area. Should mention differences in neutral/ground configuration.

Q: How do you troubleshoot common sub panel problems?

Expected Answer: Should describe process of checking connections, testing voltage, identifying overloaded circuits, and ensuring proper grounding. Should mention importance of safety procedures.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic tools are needed for sub panel installation?

Expected Answer: Should list common tools like wire strippers, voltage tester, screwdrivers, drill, level, and basic safety equipment. Should demonstrate knowledge of when to use each tool.

Q: What are the basic parts of a sub panel?

Expected Answer: Should identify main components like circuit breakers, bus bars, neutral bar, ground bar, and panel box. Should show basic understanding of each component's purpose.