Electrical
About Electrical Work
In a world run by electricity, electricians are often considered absolutely necessary in order for business operations and homes to function properly. Almost every structure in the world runs on electrical power, meaning that the appliances within them require equipment that make people’s lives and jobs easier. Workers who carry this job out are called electricians. Electricians are those who install, connect, perform maintenance and test out wiring systems such as power, lighting, and security systems.
Electricians can work both indoors and outdoors and they must be able to travel to different job sites. Work areas can get cramped, with long periods of standing or kneeling. This type of career can be dangerous, considering electricity is heavily involved, which is why these workers must take precautions to ensure the upmost safety.
Most electricians gain experience and certification through an apprenticeship. Gaining experience and staying motivated in a competitive trade can launch you into your dream career, as electricians are typically the top-paid trade. If you are good at math and have great eye-hand coordination, you might consider being an electrician!
Examples of Pre-Apprenticeship Skills
- Demonstrating the correct use of common tools
- Demonstrating job site safety
- Installing circuit panels
- Installing electrical conduit and wiring for both homes and commercial sites
- Cabling
- Testing and performing repairs on systems
- Installing switches, receptacles, and lighting fixtures
Electrical Work Includes:
Electricians work in older buildings that require improvements to meet modern codes. Upgrading the electrical work with new, updated technologies will boost energy conservation efforts. New residential work includes all wiring and connection to the electrical service.
Commercial electrical work includes office spaces, hotels, parking lots, malls, airports, landing strips, and federal building projects.
Opportunities in an Electrical Career
The electrical industry grows more and more with time. Just think, only thirty years ago we weren’t using the amount of electricity we use today, compared to the ever-evolving technology that continues to come out. These developments will only expand, bringing a need for electricians to take care of these issues when a problem arises.
Potential Careers
- General contractor
- Electrical engineer
- Electrical inspector
- Electrician’s helper
- Electrical superintendent
Average Pay Rate
During pre-apprenticeship training, new technicians receive anywhere between $12 to $14 an hour, depending on the employer. With continued training, further experienced electricians receive between $14 to $16 an hour. Once fully certified, the electricians can make between $60,000 to $80,000 a year, again, depending on the employer or the location. Full certification takes about 3 to 4 years, but the process is definitely worth it.
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