Electricians
What is an Electrician?
An electrician is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems and equipment. They work on a variety of systems, including residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems, ensuring that installations comply with local and national electrical codes. Electricians are responsible for handling electrical wiring, circuit breakers, power distribution, and lighting systems, among other tasks. Their role often involves reading blueprints and technical diagrams, troubleshooting electrical issues, and performing rigorous safety checks to prevent hazards. Electricians may also be involved in upgrading existing electrical systems to improve energy efficiency or enhance capacity. The profession requires a combination of technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and physical stamina, as electricians often work in confined spaces and at various heights. Many electricians undergo formal training through an apprenticeship program, which combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, leading to licensure or certification in their respective regions.
Tasks
- Prepare sketches or follow blueprints to determine the location of wiring or equipment and to ensure conformance to building and safety codes.
- Place conduit, pipes, or tubing, inside designated partitions, walls, or other concealed areas, and pull insulated wires or cables through the conduit to complete circuits between boxes.
- Work from ladders, scaffolds, or roofs to install, maintain, or repair electrical wiring, equipment, or fixtures.
- Use a variety of tools or equipment, such as power construction equipment, measuring devices, power tools, and testing equipment, such as oscilloscopes, ammeters, or test lamps.
- Assemble, install, test, or maintain electrical or electronic wiring, equipment, appliances, apparatus, or fixtures, using hand tools or power tools.
Technology Skills
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Word processing software
- Microsoft Word
- Socrates Contractor's Library
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Analytical or scientific software
- Construction Master Pro
- Electrosoft FlashWorks
- Elite Software Inpoint
- SoftEmpire Electrical Calculations
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Data base user interface and query software
- Database software
- Resolve Systems Service Management
- Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate
- Shafer Service Systems
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Industrial control software
- AVEVA InTouch HMI
- Programmable logic controller PLC software
- Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
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Computer aided design CAD software
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- One Mile Up Panel Planner
Tools Used
- Stripping tools
- Wire or cable cutter
- Voltage or current meters
- Cable reels
- Wire lug crimping tool
Knowledge
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Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
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Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Skills
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Troubleshooting
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
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Repairing
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Abilities
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Finger Dexterity
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Less than high school diploma
Work Activities
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Performing General Physical Activities
Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
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Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Detailed Work Activities
- Create construction or installation diagrams.
- Thread wire or cable through ducts or conduits.
- Repair electrical equipment.
- Test electrical equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
- Install electrical components, equipment, or systems.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$38470.0 - $104180.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.