Electricians layout, assemble, install, maintain, and test electrical fixtures, apparatus, control equipment, and wiring used in heating and refrigeration, lighting, power, intercommunications, air conditioning, and electrical systems of homes, factories, and other buildings.

JOB DUTIES 

Electricians may:

Plan installations consistent with specifications and local electrical codes

Diagnose equipment failures and use various hand and power tools to correct the problem

Prepare sketches or follow blueprints showing the location of wiring equipment

Advise management on whether continued operation of equipment could be hazardous

Measure, cut, bend, thread, assemble, and install electrical conduit using an assortment of tools

Pull wires through the conduit and connect them to lighting fixtures and power equipment

Install control and distribution apparatus such as switches, relays, and circuit-breaker panels

Connect power cables to equipment and install ground leads

Test continuity of circuits to ensure electrical compatibility and safety compliance

Detect equipment hazards and adjustment, relocation or replacement needs

Prepare logic diagrams of computerized equipment

Install programmable controllers and other electronic systems

Install coaxial cable or fiber-optic cable for computers and communications systems

Direct and train workers and/or apprentices to install, maintain, or repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures

Observe installed equipment or system to detect hazards and need for adjustment, relocation, or replacement of parts

Click here to see an informative video on Electricians! 

Tools, equipment, work aids, and materials used by Electricians may include: 

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES

Electricians may specialize in these areas: 

824.261-010  ELECTRICIANS layout, assemble, install, maintain, and test electrical fixtures, apparatus, control equipment, and wiring used in heating and refrigeration, lighting power, intercommunications, air conditioning, and electrical systems of homes, factories, and other buildings.

829.261-018  MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIANS install, maintain, and repair electrical equipment such as conveyors, robots, programmable controllers, motors, transformers, switches, and alarm systems, usually in industrial plants and commercial buildings.

820.261-014  POWERHOUSE ELECTRICIANS repair and maintain electrical equipment in generating stations and powerhouses.

820.261-018  SUBSTATION ELECTRICIANS inspect, test, and maintain substation electrical equipment such as oil circuit breakers, transformers, and surge arresters.

825.281-026  LOCOMOTIVE ELECTRICIANS install and maintain electrical wiring and equipment, such as motors, generators, air conditioners, electrical outlets, and lighting fixtures in railroad locomotive cars, streetcars, and subway coaches.

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may also find it helpful to explore the following Career Exploration Scripts:

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WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Electricians work both indoors and outdoors. They may work in areas that are noisy and dirty due to construction or manufacturing activities.  Electricians stand, squat, and stretch almost continually as they climb and work from ladders and scaffolds. Electricians frequently lift and carry tools and materials from a truck to the job or from one part of the job to another.  

Although this occupation is not considered extremely hazardous, Electricians are subject to injuries caused by falls from ladders or other high places, cuts from sharp tools, electrical shocks, and burns. Strictly following safety standards reduces these hazards.  

The average work week is generally 35 to 40 hours per week. Construction Electricians usually work 5 days a week. Some jobs require overtime and irregular working hours for which appropriate rates are paid.  

Both journeyperson and apprentice Electricians are expected to provide their own hand tools. A basic set of tools generally costs $200 - $450. A complete set often costs $450 - $630. Employers provide the pipe threaders and benders, wire pullers, and other specialized equipment needed for this work.  

Many journeyperson Electricians and apprentices are members of The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and are affiliated with one of the local unions. Union members must pay dues.   

You Should Prefer:

• Activities dealing with things and objects

• Activities involving use of machines, processes, or methods

• Activities that bring satisfaction from producing things  

You Should Be Able To:

• Rate information using personal judgment

• Rate information using standards that can be measured or checked

• Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy

• Perform a variety of duties which may change often

• Use reason and logic

• Perform arithmetical operations rapidly and accurately

• See detail in objects and drawings

• Recognize slight differences in shapes or shadings

• Picture flat drawings as 3-dimensional objects

Math Problem You Should Be Able to Solve: 

If a voltage reading is taken between any two ungrounded conductors on a 120/208 volt, three-phase, 4-wire Y-Y-connected electric service, what would the normal voltage reading be?  

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend: 

An alternating current will flow when an AC voltage is applied to the primary coil of a transformer. This current produces a field of force which changes as the current changes. The changing magnetic field is carried by the magnetic core to the secondary coil, where it cuts across the turns of that coil.  

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Produce: 

Prepare written specifications for blueprints for a wiring job.   

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate: 

Should be able to demonstrate excellent analytical skills, logic skills, and be detail-oriented in laying out, assembling, and maintaining wiring.   

The State of Michigan requires a license for this occupation.  Click here  for "Michigan Licensed Occupations," see Electrician Apprentice; Electrician, Journeyperson; or Electrician, Master for specific licensing information.

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EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES  

NOTE: On-The-Job Training provided by the employer or a High School Diploma with specific Vocational Education Classes or a Certificate (program of up to one year of study beyond high school) or an Associate Degree (two years of study beyond high school) or an Apprenticeship (usually three to four years of training beyond high school) may qualify a person for this occupation.  

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in this Career Exploration Script: 

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***  

0500 BUILDING TRADES , 0700 CAREERS , 0900 COMMUNICATIONS , 1200 ELECTRONICS , 2200 MATH , 2900 SCIENCE , 3100 STUDY & WORK OPTIONS , 3200 TECHNICAL DRAWING , 3300 TECHNOLOGY 

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***  

030 ELECTRICAL/POWER TRANS. INST.  

Approved vocational education programs in Electrical and Power Transmission Installation prepare students to install, operate, maintain, and repair electrical systems for homes, businesses, and factories and the power lines that transmit electricity from its source of generation to its place of consumption.

Courses in other trade and industrial programs may be required for completion of this program.  

Approved vocational education programs in Electrical and Electronics repair prepare students to test, install, maintain, and repair electrical and electronics systems and components. These programs generally prepare students to operate, maintain, and repair electronic business machines, communications equipment, large and small appliances, and vending machines. Instruction includes the use of testing equipment. 

The following courses may be required for completion of this program:  

 High school students should consult their guidance office for more information about the specific requirements of this program at their school or area vocational education center.  

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS***

 052 ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS TECH.  

Programs in Electrical and Electronics Technology provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment servicing electrical and electronics systems, appliances, and motors. Individuals who teach Electrical and Electronics Technology at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.  

Courses within this program will vary but may include: 

 120 ROBOTICS TECHNOLOGY  

Programs in Robotics Technology provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment in the design, manufacture, testing, installation, operation, and maintenance of robots, robotics systems, and related devices, tools, and mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic equipment. Individuals who teach Robotics Technology at the secondary school level must have a Michigan Teaching Certificate.  

Courses vary from school to school but may include: 

  Search for a College and/or Instructional Program    

  ***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***   

017 ELECTRICIAN  

Most people enter occupations within this Career Exploration Script through an apprenticeship program. An apprenticeship program is a formal program that takes 3 - 5 years to complete with most of the time spent on the job.  

WHAT IS LEARNED ON THE JOB 

 WHAT IS LEARNED IN THE CLASSROOM 

 ***MILITARY TRAINING PROGRAMS***  

Please check the Military website at http://www.myfuture.com . 

BUILDING ELECTRICIANS  

The military uses electricity to do many jobs, including lighting hospitals, running power tools, and operating computers. Building electricians install and repair electrical wiring systems in offices, repair shops, airplane hangars, and other buildings on military bases.  

What They Do  

Building electricians in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

• Install and wire transformers, junction boxes, and circuit breakers, using wire cutters, insulation strippers, and other hand tools

• Read blueprints, wiring plans, and repair orders to determine wiring layouts or repair needs

• Cut, bend and string wires and conduits (pipe or tubing)

• Inspect power distribution systems, shorts in wires, and faulty equipment using test meters

• Repair and replace faulty wiring and lighting fixtures

• Install lightning rods to protect electrical systems  

Helpful Attributes  

Helpful school subjects include science and math. Helpful attributes include:

• Ability to use hand tools

• Preference for doing physical work

• Interest in electricity

Work Environment  

Building electricians usually work indoors while installing wiring systems. They work outdoors while installing transformers and lightning rods.  

Physical Demands  

Normal color vision is required for working with color-coded wiring and circuits.  

Training Provided  

Job training consists of classroom instruction, including practice in the installation and repair of electrical wiring systems. Further training occurs on the job and through advance courses.  Course content typically includes:

• Fundamentals of electricity

• Electrical circuit troubleshooting

• Safety procedures

• Techniques for wiring switches, outlets, and junction boxes

Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses. The Army and Marine Corps offers certified apprenticeship programs for some specialties in this occupation. 

Civilian Counterparts  

Civilian building electricians usually work for building and electrical contracting firms. Some work as self-employed electrical contractors. They perform duties similar to military building electricians.  

Opportunities  

The exact number of building electricians is unknown. On average, the services need about 100 new electricians each year. After job training, building electricians work under close supervision. As they gain experience, building electricians work more independently. In time, they may be promoted to supervisors of one or more work crews. Eventually, they may become construction superintendents.  

E-Learning Courses and Programs

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OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY   

The various branches of the military offer opportunities to gain experience in this field. Experience may be gained through a formal apprenticeship also. Secondary vocational education programs in trade and industry as well as postsecondary programs in electrical and electronics technology and robotics technology offer training for this occupation.   

School-to-Work opportunities include: 

informal apprenticeships

mentorships

job shadowing experiences

touring a local Electrician employer

internships

volunteer work with a Electrician employer

community service work with an agency

The usual way to become an Electrician is through a formal apprenticeship, although some learn the trade informally by working as Electricians' helpers. Positions may be located by consulting newspaper ads, applying to electrical contractors, or contacting a Michigan Works! local office or a community college placement office.  In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment services sites such as:  

You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.

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EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT

Hourly wages for Electricians are among the highest in the building trades. They may vary by geographic location, type and size of employer, area of specialization, and union affiliation.   

Nationally, in early 2009, basic hourly wage rates for Electricians employed in residential construction averaged about $28.12 per hour and those who worked in industrial and commercial construction averaged about $42.20 per hour. Median weekly earnings for all Electricians were $807 or $20.18 per hour in 2008.The median weekly earnings of "all" workers in the U.S. were $722 in 2008.

In several areas in Michigan, Electricians in construction earned hourly union rates, including fringe benefits, of (mid 2009):  

Most Electricians working for automotive firms earned between $26.97 and $31.68 per hour in mid 2009. These workers also receive a cost-of-living allowance. In early 2009, Electricians employed by the State of Michigan earned between $17.96 and $25.20 per hour, depending on their seniority and responsibilities.  Master Electricians employed by the State of Michigan earned between $18.20 and $27.22 per hour and Electrician Supervisors earned between $20.33 and $27.97 per hour. 

Apprentices earn 40% of the skilled rate and receive a 5% increase for every 6 months of training. Overtime pay may be 1 1/2 or 2 times the hourly rate. Some Electricians receive cost-of-living allowances.  

The 2007 graduates of high school vocational education program in Michigan who are working in jobs related to this occupation earned a beginning average of $10.37 per hour in 2008.  

Most Electricians receive a health and welfare plan; pension plan; holiday and vacation pay; sick leave; and National Electrical Benefit Fund payments. Some have savings plans. Most benefits are paid for, at least in part, by the employer. Employers and employees may jointly contribute to a union fund to pay for certain benefits. Benefits of non-unionized workers depend on the employer. 

Electricians may become supervisors, superintendents, estimators, or owners of their own businesses.

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EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK   

Nationally, about 705,000 Electricians were employed in 2006. Slightly more than half worked as maintenance electricians. Employment is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2016. About 9.2% of them were self-employed. The industry distribution for Electricians looked like this:  

To find employers, click Employer/Business Locator.

With a sluggish economy and a steady decline in new construction and manufacturing projects, employment opportunities for Electricians may be scarce for certain periods at a time. 

There are about 24,625 Electricians employed in Michigan. Most of them worked in urban areas. Employment is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2014. An average 620 annual openings is expected, with 130 due to growth and 490 to replacement of those who retire, die, or leave the labor force for other reasons. In late 2008, there were 2,134 apprentices in training for this occupation, and 218 completed the apprentice program during the prior 12 months.  

Construction activity requiring installation and maintenance of electrical wiring of light fixtures, outlets, and heating, air-conditioning, pollution control, and electronic data processing equipment will create a need for Electricians. In addition to traditional wiring, Electricians are being used more to install other types of wiring and fiber optic cable for computers, telecommunications equipment, and programmable controls, especially when these wires and cables are installed during the construction of buildings. Technological developments, such as use of factory assembled parts that were once assembled by the Electricians, may tend to limit employment growth in this field. Substantial growth may occur in manufacturing, where Electricians are being trained to maintain and repair automated equipment, such as assembly robots and automated vehicle guidance systems.  

Electricians should also see an increase in job opportunities as more companies shift their focus on renewable and/or alternative energy.  Job opportunities in wind power and in solar power will prove to have the greatest need for electricians who can update and maintain electrical systems.

MICHIGAN 'S EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2014

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION    

      Copyright © 2009 Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Econmic Growth