An electrician is a person who installs, repairs and maintains electrical equipment. This includes repairing or replacing outlets and circuit breakers in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. They also inspect and repair all types of electric and electronic equipment to ensure it is working properly and prevent breakdowns from occurring.
A career as an electrician can be rewarding, especially if you enjoy working on new projects and being a team player. You can also make a good income and have the opportunity to grow in your career as you gain experience.
You can become an electrician by attending a technical school that offers courses in safety practices, circuitry and basic electricity. You can also enroll in an apprenticeship program that lasts a few years and teaches you the trade through paid on-the-job training.
Most people who want to be an electrician start by getting a high school diploma or a general equivalency degree. They then take a few years to complete an apprenticeship program with the help of a union or non-union employer.
Apprenticeship programs typically last four to five years and involve 144 hours of technical training and 2,000 hours of on-the-job training. During this time, you work under the supervision of a master electrician to learn the trade. You also spend hundreds of hours taking technical classes and attending workshops on topics such as code requirements, inspections and wiring techniques.
Once you complete the apprenticeship program, most states require that you pass a test to obtain your license as a journeyman electrician. If you want to advance in your career, you can attend a technical school to earn an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in electrical technology.
Job satisfaction for electricians is moderate, with an average rating of about 4 out of 5. They report that they are able to find a job that pays well and that they are able to meet their family’s needs.
In addition, they report that the job is not stressful and offers great work-life balance. They also say that they have the opportunity to improve their skills and get promoted over time.
The career also requires a strong commitment, with many electricians taking on additional jobs to supplement their income. This can include a part-time job, such as an assistant or a work-study position.
Some electricians specialize in a certain type of work, such as residential or industrial, while others focus on one aspect of the trade, such as installing a fire alarm system. In addition to performing routine tasks such as installing fuses and circuit breakers, some electricians may perform specialized jobs, such as inspecting stage lighting equipment or designing power systems for commercial buildings.
They also perform a wide variety of other electrical work, such as rewiring homes or installing a solar panel array on a roof. As the industry evolves, they will need to update their training and skills to keep up with the changes.
If you’re considering a career as an electrician, you should research the requirements of your state’s licensing agency and contact a local union to discuss pursuing an apprenticeship. Some employers offer apprentices on-the-job training to prepare them for the work, while others prefer that you attend a trade school or vocational college.
