Electrician Pasadena prepares, assembles, installs, and troubleshoots electrical wiring, fixtures, and control devices in all types of buildings. They are employed by electrical contractors and building maintenance departments or can be self-employed. Becoming an electrician does not require a college degree, so that you can avoid student loan debt. However, you do need to complete an apprenticeship and industry-recognized qualifications like City & Guilds or EAL and pass the AM2 assessment.
There are a number of educational options for aspiring electricians. Most choose to attend a trade school or technical school, which offers courses in blueprint reading, electrical theory, residential wiring, and more. These schools can prepare students to move directly into an apprenticeship or serve as a stepping stone towards a bachelor’s degree.
In addition to coursework, most schools also offer hands-on training in a laboratory environment, where students work alongside experienced instructors and students. This is an excellent way to learn the skills and practice the tasks required of a job as an apprentice. Students can also take an apprenticeship through a local union or non-union trade organization. This will provide them with on-the-job experience and allow them to begin the journeyman electrician licensing process.
Electricians prepare, assemble, install, test, and repair electrical wiring, fixtures, and related equipment in all types of buildings and structures. They must be familiar with blueprints and other technical diagrams, and they must use a variety of hand tools as well as power tools such as screwdrivers, wire strippers, drills, and saws. They also need to be strong enough to move heavy components if needed.
While some electricians are self-employed and run their own businesses, most find employment with electrical contractors or building maintenance departments. They may also choose to pursue a career in electrical engineering, where they can design and develop new technology for the industry.
Specialized electricians can also be found working with power generating stations or substations. These electricians help to keep the power running when there are outages and perform tests to ensure safety. They can also assist with installing electrical systems for new construction projects and work with other electrical engineers on project management.
In order to become a licensed journey worker, electricians must complete their education and an apprenticeship as well as accumulate on-the-job experience under the supervision of a master electrician. Some trade schools, such as NECA Education & Careers, can assist with the entire process from pre-apprenticeship to licensure. Those interested in learning more about becoming an electrician should visit the program page to enter their zip code and request enrollment information.
Job Duties
The main job duties of an electrician involve the installation, maintenance and troubleshooting of power systems. They may work on commercial or residential projects, or a mixture of both. They can also specialize in certain industries or types of equipment. In the field, they often have to read and follow blueprints to locate wiring or equipment and ensure compliance with building codes. They may use a variety of hand and power tools, including pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, drills, wire strippers and hammers. They must be able to analyze problems, determine the best course of action and solve complex electrical issues.
There are several different types of electricians, each with a slightly different set of job responsibilities. A commercial electrician works on electrical power, lighting and communication systems in buildings and other structures like warehouses, office buildings, schools and hospitals. They can also install and repair elevators, air conditioning units and heating systems.
An industrial electrician, on the other hand, typically works in factories or manufacturing plants. They install and repair the electrical systems used in these settings, such as motors, generators and control systems. They usually work in conjunction with maintenance staff and engineers to ensure the smooth operation of these systems.
A line electrician, sometimes known as a line electrical worker, works outdoors on electric utility distribution systems that deliver power to homes and businesses. They may also be responsible for laying cabling that carries electricity from power plants to substations and then to individual buildings. They can also maintain telecommunications wiring for telephone and internet lines.
Regardless of the specific role, all electricians must be comfortable working with live electrical wires and ensuring that their work meets the necessary safety standards. This can mean working in cramped spaces or in the midst of construction, as well as dealing with hazardous materials like asbestos. They should also be able to communicate with customers and other workers in a professional manner. Other qualifications include a strong work ethic, physical strength and good manual dexterity. They must also be able to safely operate power construction equipment and understand basic plumbing.
Salary
The good news is that electricians are among the highest paid trade workers, and their salaries continue to rise throughout their careers. Check out the table below to compare earning potential for electricians with other popular trade jobs from entry-level to late-career wages.
The type of employer and location can also affect an electrician’s salary. Those who work for government agencies or electric utilities generally earn the most. Some electricians may also choose to become self-employed, and these professionals typically set their own rates. However, they need to have the right tools and skills to be able to compete with other companies who hire full-time employees.
Some electricians are also members of unions, such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and their wages are negotiated collectively with employers. These workers must pay dues to their union and meet with union officials to stay updated on issues that may impact their job duties. The union may also negotiate their health insurance, vacation and sick leave policies.
In addition to their wages, electricians may receive other benefits from their employer. Some of these include training, tools, and safety equipment. Depending on their company, they may also offer dental and vision insurance or disability coverage. Other benefits can include tuition reimbursement and a retirement plan.
While electricians enjoy high salaries, the job can also be stressful. The nature of their responsibilities requires precision and attention to detail, and some projects must be completed within tight deadlines. Additionally, many electricians work in dangerous construction sites or cramped spaces.
Nonetheless, most people who work as electricians love their career and are happy with the pay they earn. For many, this career is a lifelong calling and something they are proud to be a part of.
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Work Environment
Electricians need to work in a variety of environments. This is true whether they are working on residential homes, in commercial buildings or on large construction sites. The job will often involve working with electricity, which can be dangerous if it isn’t handled properly.
Most electricians need to travel to different locations on a regular basis. In addition to driving, they might need to walk or ride a bicycle to the next job site. They will also need to be on call for after-hours emergencies and may have to work during nights or weekends.
Depending on the specialization of an electrician, they may need to work in large spaces or cramped conditions. This is especially true when they are performing maintenance on electrical wiring or appliances.
It is also possible for an electrician to work on outdoor power lines, which can be very dangerous. In this case, an electrician would need to be a line installer, and they would be required to climb 100 foot poles while suspended in the air for hours at a time.
Some electricians will need to read blueprints or technical diagrams in order to determine the location of circuits and outlets. Others will need to use mechanical tools or hand-held devices to connect wires to circuit breakers and transformers. Other electricians will need to understand the physics of how electricity works in order to diagnose and repair problems.
Electricians contribute to society by ensuring that our electrical systems function correctly and safely. They also help make our communities more energy efficient by installing lighting solutions and programmable thermostats that can reduce energy usage. They are also responsible for reducing our dependency on fossil fuels and carbon emissions by installing alternative energy solutions such as solar panels. In addition, they are an integral part of the construction industry and play a crucial role in the safety of our cities and communities. Fires, electrocution and other accidents caused by faulty wiring can be avoided by the diligent efforts of an electrician. As a result, this is an important profession that is always in demand.
