Electrician

Home>Electrician
format_list_bulleted

Occupation Overview

slideshow

Job Preview

account_balance

Education & Training

At A Glance: Electrician

Electricians are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. It is crucial that electricians are aware of the required codes and conduct their work so that it is compliant with such codes. Electricians require one to two years of training , which may include the completion of an apprenticeship program. They are also required to pass licensure examinations to perform their jobs. Electricians typically earn approximately $26.53 an hour, and the need for such workers typically grows at an average rate, from about 5% to 9% per year. Positions related to electricians include pipe fitters, steamfitters, elevator installers and repairers, heating and air conditioning mechanics and installers, and refrigeration mechanics and installers.

Entry Level Requirements

schoolschoolschoolschoolschool

Certificate

To become an electrician, a student must graduate from high school and complete a post-secondary certificate.
occupation details image

Median hourly wage:

$23.02
in Construction & Extraction occupations.

How much can I make?

Hourly Rate: $15 - $48/HR.

Job Details: Electrician

Video produced and provided by CareerOneStop.org

Commonly Performed Tasks

Electricians must plan the layout and installation of electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures while adhering to job specifications and appropriate codes. They must test electrical systems and continuity of circuits with testing devices to ensure the compatibility and safety of the electrical system. Electricians use a variety of tools and equipment necessary to make adjustments, repairs, and ensure code compliance.
  • Plan layout and installation of electrical wiring or equipment based on job specifications and codes
  • Connect wires to circuit breakers, transformers, or other components
  • Test electrical systems or continuity of circuits in electrical wiring, equipment, or fixtures
  • Use a variety of tools like power construction equipment, measuring devices, and testing equipment
  • Inspect electrical systems to identify hazards or defects to ensure safety and code compliance

Required Job Skills

Electricians require specific skills when performing their jobs. They must be able to trouble-shoot fixtures, processes, and systems and know when there are issues to fix. Electricians must know how and when to repair components, apply critical thinking skills regularly to their work, and make sound judgments and decisions. They must also have the know-how to install a variety of electrical systems and electrical system components.
  • Troubleshooting
  • Repairing
  • Effective oral and written communication
  • Critical Thinking
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Installation

Education & Training Information

Programs and Opportunities

Community College of Allegheny County - South Campus
Program: Electronics Basic
Certification: Certificate
Length: 1 Year
Community College of Allegheny County - West Hills Center
Program: Electrical Distribution Technology
Certification: Associate's Degree
Length: 2 Years
Community College of Allegheny County - West Hills Center
Program: Electrical Distribution Technology
Certification: Certificate
Length: 2 Years
Community College of Beaver County
Program: Building Trades Apprenticeship Readiness Program
Certification: Certificate
Length: 150 Hours
Community College of Allegheny County - Allegheny Campus
Program: Electrical Construction Technology
Certification: Associate's Degree
Length: 2 Years (plus Apprenticeship)
Community College of Allegheny County - West Hills Center
Program: Electrical Construction Technology
Certification: Associate's Degree
Length: 2 Years

I'd Like to Request More Information. What's Next?

There are plenty of career and training opportunities in the tri-state area. Click the button below to tell us a little about yourself and what kind of information you're looking for. A helpful resource will be in touch soon.