Crafts

Electrician

Electricians are skilled tradespeople who specialize in the installation, repair, and maintenance of electrical systems. They work on different components, including wiring, switches, outlets, and circuit breakers, ensuring that homes, buildings, and other structures are safe and their electrical systems are functional and up to code. Electricians work in residential, commercial, and industrial environments, ensuring the safe and efficient functioning of electrical systems.

Avg pay/year

low

Apprentice

$37,440

med

Journeyman

$60,240

high

Master

$102,300

Months apprentice

48

Number of jobs

762,600

Projected Yearly Job Openings

73,500

Figures based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Featured articles

What is an Electrician and What Do They Do at Work?Electricians are essential professionals who play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and functionality of our electrical systems...

Trade paths

10

General Electrician

A general electrician is a skilled tradesperson responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They work with wiring, fixtures, and equipment to ensure the safe and reliable functioning of electrical systems, including lighting, power distribution, and appliances.

Automotive Electrician

An automotive electrician is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in the wiring and installation of electrical systems in vehicles, including cars, trucks, and buses. The job typically involves working on lighting, sound systems, climate control, safety systems, and other components that rely on electrical power to function properly. Automotive electricians must have a strong understanding of electrical systems and safety procedures, as well as knowledge of the specific electrical systems used in automobiles. They may work in auto repair shops, dealerships, or other automotive facilities.

Commercial Electrician

Commercial electricians are trained in the installation and maintenance of electrical systems for commercial buildings. They are responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining wiring and lighting systems, as well as evaluating and installing electrical equipment such as circuit breakers, switches, and outlets. A commercial electrician’s job is more complex than that of a residential technician. It includes wiring for large appliances, data networks, security systems, and other specialized systems.

Industrial Electrician

Installing, maintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting electrical systems in industrial sites and facilities is a big part of an industrial electrician’s job. It includes electrical wiring and components such as motors, transformers, switches, and circuit breakers. Industrial electricians read blueprints and diagrams to determine the location of either wiring or equipment, and they may be required to operate hand and power tools. They must also adhere to safety practices to protect themselves and those around them.

Low Voltage Electrician

Low-voltage electricians specialize in the installation, repair, and maintenance of electrical systems that operate at 50 volts or less. They typically work on fire alarms, lighting systems, telecommunications networks, and audio-visual equipment. The main responsibilities of this electrician type include installing and maintaining low-voltage electrical systems, troubleshooting and repairing faults, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They must have a solid understanding of electrical principles, knowledge of the latest industry standards, and the ability to read and interpret electrical diagrams and blueprints.

Marine Electrician

While automotive electricians focus on land-based vehicles, marine electricians specialize in sea vessels. Their job typically involves installing, repairing, and maintaining the electrical systems on ships, yachts, boats, and the like. Installing, repairing, testing, and troubleshooting navigation lights, communication systems, electrical propulsion systems, generators, and batteries are some examples of a marine electrician’s tasks. These are done to ensure that all marine vessels are functioning properly.

Residential Electrician

The residential electrician position is a very popular option in the industry. It involves the installation, repair, and maintenance of wiring and lighting systems in homes. Residential electricians evaluate and install electrical equipment such as circuit breakers, switches, and outlets. They also diagnose and repair electrical faults in home electrical systems.

Solar Electrician

This type of electrician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing solar panel arrays installed on rooftops or ground-mounted systems. The job may also require working on other components of solar power systems, such as inverters and battery storage systems. Solar electricians must be knowledgeable about electrical systems and safety codes, as they are responsible for ensuring that the solar panel systems are installed and maintained in compliance with safety regulations.

Solar Installer

A solar installer is a professional who installs, maintains, and repairs solar energy systems on buildings or other structures to harness sunlight for power.

Wind Turbine Electrician

A wind turbine electrician is a skilled professional who is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing wind turbines and associated electrical systems. They work on a variety of electrical systems, including wiring, motors, generators, and control systems. Wind turbine electricians must also be able to troubleshoot and diagnose electrical problems in wind energy systems and respond to emergency situations, such as power outages or system malfunctions.

Electrician

Avg pay/year

$37,440

$60,240

$102,300

48

762,600

73,500

Featured videos

More videos

Featured articles

Trade paths

10

Skills

0

Certifications and Credentials

0

Jumpstart a well-paying career with CareerStarter.