Electricians install, repair and maintain electrical wiring and equipment in homes, businesses, factories, offices and public spaces and thoroughfares. They must have strong critical thinking skills to analyze problems and pinpoint faults.
Training as an electrician takes 4-5 years through a trade school or apprenticeship program. Those who choose the latter route typically accumulate less student debt. Visit https://www.ampi-electricinc.com/boca-raton-electrician/ to learn more.
An electrician works on assembling, installing and maintaining electrical wiring, equipment and fixtures. They also diagnose malfunctioning systems, apparatus and components, using test devices such as ohmmeters and voltmeters. They prepare sketches and follow blueprints to determine the location of electrical wiring and equipment, ensuring conformity with building codes. In addition, they may perform physically demanding tasks such as digging trenches to lay conduit and moving and lifting heavy objects.
In some cases, electricians work with architects and engineers to design electrical systems for new construction projects. In larger companies, they may supervise a team of workers, including helpers and apprentices. This type of job requires excellent communication skills, especially when supervising others.
Electricians install and repair lighting fixtures, outlets, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and power outlets. Some specialize in telecommunications wiring for telephones and computers. They usually work indoors, but in some instances may be required to work outdoors and in high places, such as on a power line pole. In addition, they sometimes install street lights or intercom systems.
While many electricians work on their own, some prefer to work as part of a team. These individuals are often required to travel to different jobsites and must be able to communicate effectively in order to relay instructions to other workers. In addition, they must be able to read and write well in order to document their work and submit reports.
For those interested in working in the renewable energy sector, electricians are a vital part of the process. They are responsible for installing and maintaining the necessary equipment to capture and harness wind and solar power. In this capacity, they are often required to climb to heights up to 50 feet.
Some electricians choose to take their careers a step further by becoming a licensed master electrician, which entails taking and passing an exam. This credential allows them to train and supervise apprentices and journeymen, as well as to “pull” permits for electrical work on commercial, residential or industrial sites. The majority of electricians, however, do not pursue this path.
Education Requirements
A high school diploma or GED certificate is the minimum educational requirement for becoming an electrician. Students pursuing a career in this field should complete course work that teaches them the basics of electrical science and technology, including basic math and algebra. A vocational school program can also help prepare students for an apprenticeship. Some community colleges offer an associate degree in electrical engineering and technology, while others provide a specialized certificate for electricians.
Apprenticeship programs combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction from a master electrician. These programs can take anywhere from four to five years to complete and often require candidates to pass a series of exams in order to become licensed. Students can find an apprenticeship through local unions, technical schools and community colleges.
After completing an apprenticeship, electricians should continue their education by taking courses that keep them current with changes to the National Electrical Code. Many electricians also attend regular safety programs and manufacturer-specific courses to improve their skills. In some cases, electricians must take specialized classes to work with certain types of equipment, such as low-voltage voice and data systems or alternative energy solutions.
In addition to formal education, aspiring electricians should develop critical thinking and analytical problem-solving skills. They must be able to read blueprints and understand how different systems are connected. They must also be physically fit enough to carry out their duties, which can include working on ladders and at heights. In addition to physical stamina, electricians need keen eyesight and good manual dexterity to handle wires, fuses, circuit breakers and other tools.
Those who are interested in this career should go to job fairs and speak with employers to determine the specific requirements for a position. Once a student has completed the necessary education and on-the-job training, he should create a resume that highlights his experience and qualifications. A strong cover letter is also important for submitting to prospective employers.
Before an electrician can begin his career, he must take a state-mandated exam that evaluates his understanding of the National Electric Code and various electrical concepts. These tests vary by location, and may include written and practical components.
Training Requirements
The first step in becoming an electrician is to complete a program at a vocational school. Some schools will even connect you with an apprenticeship opportunity upon completion of the course. The program will cover OSHA standards, electrical theory and practical skills. You’ll also learn about commercial, industrial and residential wiring.
In addition to the classroom work, apprentices will perform real-world tasks under a licensed journeyman electrician. Depending on the state, this may take up to four years. The first year is generally spent learning the trade, with the second and third years devoted to actual work experience.
Electrical work requires critical thinking and specialized tools to test and diagnose problems. For example, the electrical current passing through a wire is measured by an ammeter or a voltmeter. Other specialized tools include a digital multimeter, which can measure current, capacitance, resistance and voltage. The tool is able to detect any changes and determine whether there is an overcurrent or overvoltage.
Electricians must be able to read and follow technical diagrams. They must have a strong understanding of math, particularly algebra and geometry. It’s necessary to understand units and conversions as well, especially when dealing with voltage, wattage, amperes and ohms. A good grasp of these concepts can prevent dangerous mistakes like overloading a circuit, which leads to overheating and potentially fires.
Another important skill to have is manual dexterity. Replacing fuses, running wiring and working with a variety of other tools can be physically demanding. Electricians must have the strength and stamina to be successful in this career.
Finally, electricians must be familiar with the latest changes to electrical codes. These changes are made yearly to reflect advances in technology, safety and the environment. For example, solar energy is increasingly popular, and electricians need to know how to install and inspect these systems.
Some states require electrician apprentices to register before they can work on job sites. This is usually a straightforward process and only involves filling out a form and paying a small fee. Having this on your resume lets potential employers know that you’re trained and ready to work on their jobs.
Salary
A licensed electrician can make a decent living, depending on the location and specialty. A person who works in construction can expect to earn around $40,000. Those who work on a big job in remote locations or in oil rigs can often get a lot more than that. Overtime can also drastically increase earnings.
Electricians who work on industrial systems can also earn a good wage. These people are able to set up and maintain the electrical systems of factories, warehouses, and other large buildings. On average, electricians in this field earn around $67,000. People who specialize in working on power transmission lines may earn slightly more than this.
Workers who choose to become a wind turbine technician can expect to earn about $50,000 a year. This job is in high demand because more and more people are choosing to buy and operate wind turbines.
Some electricians choose to join a union, which can lead to higher wages. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers is one of the biggest unions and it has a large number of members who work as electricians. The benefits of joining a union include the ability to negotiate contracts with employers, and being able to participate in collective bargaining efforts.
It is important for an electrician to keep up with the latest technology in their field. This will allow them to keep up with the changing times and make sure that their clients are getting the best service. It will also ensure that they are aware of any new safety standards or changes to existing ones.
Electricians who want to maximize their earning potential can consider starting their own company. This will take some time and money, but it can pay off in the long run. This option is especially attractive to those who have a lot of experience and can attract other skilled tradespeople to their firm.
Another way to boost your income is by focusing on becoming a master electrician. This can take between 3 to 4 years and will usually lead to a significant raise in salary. This is because master electricians are considered highly skilled and in demand.
