Rig Electrician - Critical Interview Questions & Answers
Candidate Profile
This guide includes answers tailored to a candidate with the following background:
- B.Eng in Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- MSc in Oil, Gas, and Energy Engineering
- Certified Matey Officer
- NEBOSH Certified Safety Officer
- Certified NDT Technician
- High experience in the Oil and Gas industry, maintenance, and operations
1. What are the main electrical systems used on a drilling rig?
Main systems include diesel generators, switchboards, MCCs, lighting, VFDs, SCR systems, and control panels for mud
pumps, draw works, and top drives. I have worked extensively with these systems in high-risk oil and gas environments.
2. How do you troubleshoot an electric motor that fails to start?
Check power supply, control circuit, fuses, overloads, and continuity of motor windings. With my oilfield experience, I'm
systematic and safety-conscious, using insulation resistance testers and clamp meters.
3. What safety precautions must be taken before working on live equipment?
Follow LOTO procedures, isolate energy sources, verify de-energization, wear PPE, and use insulated tools. My
NEBOSH certification ensures strong HSE compliance.
4. Have you worked with hazardous area classifications and EX-rated equipment?
Yes. I've handled installation and inspection of EXd/EXe gear under ATEX/IECEx. I understand flame path protection
and zone classification from my offshore and NDT experience.
5. How do you maintain generator synchronization on a rig?
Match voltage, frequency, and phase angle using synchroscopes or auto sync relays. I monitor load sharing using
droop/isocronous control. This is part of my daily routine as a rig electrician.
Rig Electrician - Critical Interview Questions & Answers
6. If a rig loses power suddenly, what steps do you take?
Secure personnel and critical operations, activate emergency generator if needed, inspect switchboard and generators,
and restore power methodically. My leadership as a certified Matey Officer helps in critical decision-making.
7. What would you do if you notice arcing or overheating in an MCC panel?
Isolate power, allow cooldown, inspect terminals, relays, and contactors, and repair or replace components. Safety
documentation and root cause analysis are critical steps I always take.
8. Explain your understanding of PTW (Permit to Work) system.
PTW ensures planned, approved, and safe work execution. I always verify isolation points, understand the scope, and
brief the team before starting any job. NEBOSH training reinforces this practice.
9. What certifications or training do you have related to offshore work?
I hold BOSIET, NEBOSH Safety, NDT Level I/II certifications, and electrical engineering degrees. These credentials
ensure my readiness for offshore rig duties.
10. How do you coordinate with other departments on the rig?
Maintain communication with Toolpusher, OIM, Mechanics, and Safety Officers. Attend toolbox talks, log maintenance,
and collaborate during rig-up/down or emergency procedures. My field experience enhances cross-discipline teamwork.