The Electrician LC handles electrical components such as wiring, circuits, and outlets. He is typically required to have a high school diploma and complete a training program that can last up to five years.
Some students attend a trade or vocational school to obtain the proper education for an apprenticeship, while others contact a union to begin an apprenticeship program that provides paid on-the-job and classroom instruction.
Performing the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical wiring, systems, and equipment. Electricians may specialize in a variety of industries and work indoors or outdoors, depending on the type of project at hand. They must be comfortable working in cramped spaces and climbing ladders to reach high spots. Their job duties also include reading blueprints and technical diagrams, installing wires, circuit breaker panels, outlets, and lighting fixtures. They must test their work with voltmeters and ammeters to ensure all components are functioning properly.
Because the field of electrical work can be dangerous, electricians must follow strict safety protocols to prevent fires and injuries. They must also be familiar with the latest electrical codes and regulations. Other responsibilities may include identifying potential hazards, ordering parts and supplies, providing expert advice to customers, and working productively with construction teams. They must be prepared to respond promptly to service calls and emergency repair requests, as well.
Electricians can choose to focus on residential, commercial, or industrial projects. Residential electricians install power wiring in homes and apartments, while commercial electricians work on large buildings that require more complex electrical systems. Some electricians focus on low-voltage systems that are used inside of buildings, such as voice-data-video (VDV) wiring. Others choose to specialize in industrial projects, which require knowledge of heavy machinery and control systems.
As the demand for green energy grows, so too do jobs for electricians who specialize in renewable or alternative energy sources. Solar panel electricians are responsible for finding ideal locations to install solar panels and then connecting them to electricity devices in industrial, commercial, and residential areas. Wind turbine electricians assemble, maintain and repair wind turbines, which are another source of alternative energy.
Other specializations for electricians include linemen, who work on power lines outside of buildings and are trained to deal with higher voltages, and inside wiremen, who work with the lower voltages used in building interiors. In addition, there are specialized electricians who work on ships and aircraft. Each of these specializations requires unique skills and training to perform the job duties required.
Education Requirements
Aspiring electricians should begin with a high school diploma or equivalent. From there, they can choose to attend a trade school or enter an apprenticeship program. Both options offer a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience. A typical apprenticeship program lasts 4-5 years. After completing the program, most states require licenses for journeymen to work in the field.
Some students also choose to earn an associate degree in electrical engineering and technologies at a community college. This two-year option provides students with a more well-rounded education than a traditional apprenticeship and can help future electricians move up the career ladder faster.
The Armed Forces also offers a robust training program for aspiring electricians, which is a great way to gain valuable skills and hands-on experience in the field. Other possible routes include obtaining a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or technology at a university. A bachelor’s degree takes about four years to complete. Those who wish to pursue an advanced research career should consider a master’s degree in electrical engineering or technology.
A career as an electrician requires extensive knowledge of electrical systems and components. In addition, they must understand and adhere to national and local electrical codes and regulations. They must also have excellent customer service skills, be able to work independently, and possess good physical endurance.
Electricians are in demand across a variety of industries. Construction projects need electrical wiring, and older buildings need to be retrofitted with new energy efficient systems. Additionally, with the rise of alternative power sources, there is a growing need for electricians to install and repair solar and wind equipment.
Regardless of the industry, most electricians must pass a background check and drug test to get a job. Those with criminal records will not be considered for employment in this role. In addition to the requirements listed above, some states have additional licensing regulations. Contact your state’s department of labor to learn more about the specific requirements for your region. NECA Education & Careers can help you navigate the process from pre-apprenticeship to becoming a licensed journeyman electrician.
Training Requirements
If you decide to become an electrician, a vocational school program that offers the necessary classes and hands-on experience is key. This type of training can prepare you to pass the journeyman exam, which is required to work in most states. Then, you can pursue certification and start to build a career.
An apprenticeship is another popular route for those aspiring to become an electrician. These programs typically offer a mix of classroom lessons and paid on-the-job training over the course of four years. They cover a wide range of electrical topics, from residential wiring and inspections to highway lighting installation and sound systems. The program also introduces you to safety regulations and business aspects of the profession.
After finishing your apprenticeship, you can take the journeyman exam to officially become a licensed electrician. This exam is administered by a local union and usually costs a few hundred dollars to take. It covers the National Electrical Code, so you should familiarize yourself with these standards before taking the exam. You can also continue your education through courses offered by NECA Education & Careers or other professional organizations.
Once you are licensed as an electrician, you can work on your own or for a contracting company. You may also choose to specialize in a specific area, such as solar power installation or smart home technology. These specialty areas offer new opportunities for electricians, so keep up with industry trends and advances.
Whether you are hiring electricians for your own construction company or need help with an existing project, it’s important to screen candidates carefully. Look for those with the right technical skills and people skills to be successful in the job. You’ll also want to check their licensing status and education requirements.
Using an online testing tool can help you assess the skills of applicants without spending time interviewing them in person. A comprehensive test can measure their technical, maths, communication, and other abilities. The results can be used to compare different candidates and make the best hire for your needs. Alternatively, you can ask candidates to complete a mock task to get an idea of their ability.
Employment Opportunities
Electricians are in demand and can earn a good salary. They often work in the construction industry, and the buildings they help build will benefit a community for years to come. The work is physically challenging, but also rewarding. People who prefer hands-on work and want to contribute to society will find this job satisfying.
In addition to the high pay, a career as an electrician is a great way to avoid student debt. Many people with bachelor’s degrees have thousands of dollars in debt from paying for school. In addition, people who choose a trade school can start working for a living sooner than those who attend university.
Those who are interested in working as an electrician can work in various settings, from residential to commercial to industrial. Some electricians choose to specialize in specific areas, such as alarm and security systems or lighting technologies. Others may become electricians for the energy industry, working with alternative power sources such as solar and wind.
Other career options for electricians include becoming an electrical engineering technician or electrical installation inspector. Some may even choose to teach or mentor apprentices and junior electricians. Lastly, some choose to open their own electrical businesses, which can be very profitable.
Electricians are exposed to dangerous conditions, such as climbing ladders and working in cramped spaces. They are also required to continually learn new skills, as electrical systems and technology evolve quickly. Additionally, the long and irregular hours can interfere with family life and personal time.
If you are considering a career as an Electrician, it is important to weigh all of these factors against your personal preferences and goals. By doing so, you can decide if this is the right career choice for you. Those who enjoy the work, have the right education and training and are willing to take on challenges will likely have a happy and successful career as an electrician. Those who do not may find themselves miserable and frustrated, and should consider other career paths. By following these tips, you can have a successful career as an Electrician.