Whether you’re getting new wiring installed in your home or have an electrical repair job, you can trust the work of a licensed electrician.
Electricians are trained to follow strict safety guidelines when working with electricity. They can also spot potential hazards before they become dangerous. This ensures that you and your family are safe.
Education Requirements
Home electricians typically complete an apprenticeship and obtain a license rather than earning a college degree. Some states require electricians to obtain a certain amount of work experience or a combination of work hours and college education to achieve a license, so it is important to check state regulations before pursuing an apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship programs provide hands-on training under the direct supervision of a licensed master electrician, giving aspiring electricians their first on-the-job experience. During this time, they learn electrical theory and wiring skills, and gain experience installing different types of equipment.
For future electricians who want to take their education further, community college offers associate degrees in electrical technology. These two-year programs offer foundational knowledge of the field and general education courses for a well-rounded education. Some students pursue bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering or technologies.
Experience Requirements
Home electricians must meet a number of experience requirements in order to be licensed. These requirements vary by state, but typically include a high school diploma or GED certificate and years of on-the-job experience.
Some states also require electricians to complete continuing education (CE) classes throughout their careers, so they’re kept up to date on electrical codes and new safety practices. They may also need to take courses in different areas of specialty to be able to work on different projects.
One of the best ways to get the experience you need is to apply for an apprenticeship program. These four-year or five-year programs include 2,000 hours of supervised on-the-job training. They teach you how to work safely and follow building codes and regulations, as well as electrical schematics and blueprints. They can also prepare you for the wireman exam. Many contractors’ associations and trade unions sponsor apprenticeships. They can also be found through vocational schools, community colleges and Independent Electrical Contractors.
Job Duties
Electricians install and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures in homes, offices, and other buildings. They also inspect and test electrical systems to identify hazards, defects, or the need for adjustment or repair.
Diagnose malfunctioning systems, apparatus, and components, using test equipment and hand tools. Connect wires to circuit breakers, transformers, and other components. Plan layout and installation of electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures based on job specifications and local codes.
Home electricians typically work on job sites far from their homes, and may spend several months on a single job. Some work on residential projects only; others may also perform commercial work, including installing electrical systems in restaurants, retail stores, or malls.
Salary
Electricians are in high demand, with aging homes and new construction needing repairs. This is good news for those with the right skills, including smart home technology.
The salary of electricians depends on their experience level, education, and employer. The highest earners are those who have a master’s degree and have worked for many years.
Increasing your salary can be done by changing employers or getting more experience. Taking classes and attending workshops can also help.
Another way to increase your salary is to start your own company. This takes some initial investment, but it can pay off in the long run.
A service like Service Titan can help you accurately track your employees’ salaries, including overtime and any extra time spent driving or running vendors. It’s also easy to configure and calculate in a few clicks, so you can make sure every electrician gets paid their fair share for their work.
