How to Answer: Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot to solve a problem.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Lineman job interview.
25. Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot to solve a problem.
What You Need to Know
As an electrical lineman, you may have to troubleshoot various problems related to power lines and electrical systems. Common issues include power outages, damaged cables or equipment, and faulty transformers. To diagnose and solve these problems, you may use tools such as voltage meters, oscilloscopes, and cable locators. It's essential to have a strong understanding of electrical systems and safety procedures to ensure that you can address any issues efficiently and safely.
On the other hand, troubleshooting is like reverse engineering - it takes skill, effort, and patience. You have to understand the problem to know how to work backward from it to find a solution. Knowing how to solve problems with technical equipment is always a solid skill and a great way to demonstrate your example. Show that you are insightful in your approach.
Written by Krista Wenz on September 2nd, 2023
Answer Example
"Well, I remember one time when I was working as an electrical lineman, and we had a power outage on a really hot summer day. Everyone was without power, and it was causing a lot of problems. We had to troubleshoot and locate the issue to get the power back on as quickly as possible. It turned out that a faulty transformer needed to be replaced. It was a difficult job, but we were able to fix the issue and restore power to the area. It was a great feeling knowing that we were able to help so many people and solve the problem quickly."
Written by Krista Wenz on September 2nd, 2023