Why this matters:
This seemingly simple engineering question is designed to ensure your candidate is clear on fundamental concepts. Experienced electrical engineers will provide the correct answer with no hesitation. You’ll also be able to gauge the individual’s composure and attention to detail when sharing their knowledge.
What to listen for:
- Categorization of the types of cables based on size, capacity, and transmission voltage
- Familiarity and practical experience using the different types of cables described
- Ability to communicate simply and clearly, without jargon or complex terminology
Why this matters:
Electrical engineers are increasingly relying on CAD systems to create schematics and lay out circuits. You want to hire a professional who is experienced with this widely used technology to speed up the processes, and contribute to quick and easy modifications of designs and prototyping.
What to listen for:
- Experience using CAD to visualize concepts, simulate designs, and produce them
- Critical thinking skills with a proven ability to learn complex software programs
- Eagerness to improve productivity and help lower business costs through automation
Why this matters:
Any time an engineer talks about input or output impedance, they’re using Thevenin’s theorem in practice. Knowledge of the most efficient way to calculate voltage and current flowing across a load without having to recalculate the circuit over again can greatly improve productivity. In testing for knowledge of fundamental theory, you also assess the candidate’s ability to synthesize and communicate succinctly.
What to listen for:
- Thoughtful description of theorem concepts in simple layman’s terms
- Ability to describe why this theorem is useful in everyday practice
- Experience applying the theory to workplace activities
Why this matters:
Electrical engineers often work on their projects in teams. It’s important to know how candidates approach team dynamics, including leadership, conflict resolution, and execution. Even if your candidate disagrees with the project direction, the exercise of interpersonal communication skills can lead to positive results.
What to listen for:
- Leadership experience making decisions as part of a team
- Respect for others, with comfort carrying out collaborative decisions
- Interest in building consensus, relationships, and high-quality outcomes
Why this matters:
Many electrical engineers use an Engineering Requirements Document (ERD) to break a large project into smaller tasks. Candidates should have familiarity with this process as well as experience using it to delegate tasks to team members, track progress, and document operational issues.
What to listen for:
- Experience acting as liaison between product, design, and engineering teams
- Description of proactive tactics to prevent miscommunication
- Past use of living documents to facilitate the early stages of a project
Why this matters:
More and more companies are asking for their projects to incorporate the latest high-performance systems and green technologies. It’s good to have an electrical engineer on staff who’s knowledgeable about using practical sustainable design principles, even without a current need.
What to listen for:
- Knowledge of eco-design and its role in reducing environmental impact
- Interest in the principles of sustainable energy and renewable technologies
- Resourcefulness in learning more about this specific area of research
Why this matters:
This question is designed to gauge the candidate’s adaptability. Effective electrical engineers embrace change, tailoring their approach, behavior, and actions to respond to current parameters. While they may not like change per se, they should see the value of adapting to it, with minimal resistance.
What to listen for:
- Communication, quality assurance, or documentation change management strategies
- Examples of past openness, flexibility, or ability to pivot when necessary
- Passion for learning, personal growth, collaboration, and development of new skill sets
Why this matters:
Client satisfaction involves clearly defining parameters — and meeting or exceeding them. A promising candidate understands the importance of being proactive, communicating clearly to all stakeholders, and performing at or above the standards set.
What to listen for
- Experience designing systems to track performance from concept through close-out
- Desire to capture data and feedback to determine client satisfaction
- Willingness to explain, communicate, and work to high standards
Why this matters:
The best candidates are intrinsically driven — by their own standards, by a job well done, and by the ultimate objective of improving people’s lives. This question explores strategies and tactics candidates may use to stay engaged and productive at work, while giving the candidate a chance to describe their work ethic, values, and personality traits.
What to listen for:
- A response indicating the strive for excellence and a strong work ethic
- Specific actions taken to maintain interest, manage time, and follow through
- Self-reflective qualities with an understanding of inner motivations
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