Becoming an Electrician: a Step-by-Step Guide

If you want to work in an exciting role, now is a great time to consider a career as a master electrician. Electricians are problem solvers by nature. They keep electrical systems in working order in homes, businesses, and society. Today’s aspiring electrician stands to gain a lot in terms of career stability, customer satisfaction, and earning potential.

The Importance of Electricians

Electricians’ work runs the gamut from electrical installations to fixing faulty equipment. Their expertise and experience help keep homes and businesses safe and functional. Their work also plays a crucial role in energy efficiency and sustainability.

Job forecasts predict the demand for electricians will remain strong in the near future. This makes it a sound career path—Electricians will have stability and can take home a nice paycheck.

Career advancement is within reach, too, with special training and knowledge. As electricians move up the ranks, many even start their own businesses.

Last but not least, electrical contractors report a high degree of job satisfaction because they’re making a difference in their communities.

Understanding the Electrician Career

Becoming an electrician isn’t a monolith. Each professional has its own niche and responsibilities. The four groups include:

Journeyman

Journeyman electricians have fulfilled the requirements of an apprenticeship program and have passed an exam to earn their electrician license. An electrician apprenticeship is the first major milestone in an electrician’s career after completing trade school.

Master

Master electricians have completed a formal trade school program and have years of experience. As such, they mentor journeyman electricians and navigate large projects.

Residential

Residential electricians have the savvy and real-world experience to wire and maintain electrical systems in residential settings.

Industrial

Engineers in this niche work in factories, plants, and similar settings.

Regardless of where they work, electricians need to have a thorough understanding of electrical principles, codes, and regulations. They should be confident in troubleshooting problems and using their hands and tools on the job. They need to prioritize details so that no one gets hurt. They need to be in good physical condition to lift and maneuver heavy objects.

While every day can look different on the job, electricians should be adept at installing new hardware, following codes, and collaborating with other tradespeople and master electricians on projects.

The Steps To Becoming an Electrician in the US

Aspiring electricians will need to attain a certain level of education, secure an electrical license and pursue training and real-world experiences to work in this field. Here’s a look at the typical steps involved in becoming an electrician.

Complete High School or Equivalent

Most trade school programs will require a high school diploma or GED. Beyond this, courses in math and science can help you later on in the program.

Enroll in a Trade School or Community College

Find a reputable trade school or community college with electrician training programs. Most combine classroom instruction with hands-on training to provide a holistic education that prepares you for the demands of the job.

When evaluating trade school programs, consider the following factors. For one, the school should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency. The program should prepare you for an electrician license and the demands of the job. Research its track record and faculty cohort to make sure the school takes education seriously. On that note, the trade school should offer some sort of job placement services to match graduates with electrician apprenticeship opportunities.

Apply for and Complete an Apprenticeship Program

An apprenticeship program can help you translate textbook knowledge into action. Experienced electricians supervise apprentices, meaning they can consult with a professional if they get stuck. To find a nearby apprenticeship program, you can approach your local electrical contractor firms. Many have these programs in place. Your state’s apprenticeship agency can also help connect you with the right people. And when in doubt, sites like Indeed and LinkedIn advertise electrical contractor roles.

After this experience, apprentices will have a firm command of domains like wiring, installation, troubleshooting, meeting codes, and following safety protocols.

Obtain the Necessary Licenses and Certifications

The next step after an apprenticeship is to gain the necessary licenses and certifications to work in the field. Licensing requirements vary by state, so it’s important to understand what’s expected from your jurisdiction.

In addition to state electrical licensing, industry certifications can advance your knowledge and stature as an electrician. The Journeyman Electrician Certification from the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) can help your cause.

Consider a Specialization or Advanced Training

A niche, such as commercial electrical systems, can help position you as an expert in a specific area. Training is a great way to stay current on new technologies and industry best practices.

How To Find a Job as an Electrician

With training and an electrician license under your belt, it’s time to get serious about your job search. These tips can help you land an electrician job in less time.

Craft a Strong Resume and Cover Letter

Capture your skills, experience, and qualifications in a resume and cover letter. You might have a few versions of each so that each application reflects the specifics of the job description.

Make Effective Use of Online Job Boards

Keep an eye on sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. These job boards might advertise electrician positions that match your interests and career goals. Maintain a current and strong profile so that electrical contractor recruiters can’t help but notice you.

Leverage Your Connections Within the Industry

As the saying goes, “it’s not what you know, but who you know.” Show up to independent electrical contractor events, interact with other professionals, and tap your network to find roles.

Learn How To Prepare for Interviews

Practice interviewing with a friend or family and refine your summary of your qualifications and career goals. Research the employer and come prepared to explain how the job aligns with your knowledge, experience, and career goals.

Start from an Entry-Level Electrician Position

Everyone has to start somewhere. For newly minted electricians, it might be an entry-level position. Doing such can help round out your experience and help you gain the skills and confidence you need to pursue more lucrative jobs later on as a master electrician.

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