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Electrician Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Last updated: April 15, 2023

An Electrician, or an Electrician Maintenance Worker, is responsible for maintaining electrical systems in residential and commercial buildings. Their duties include communicating with clients to establish job details and related costs, reviewing electrical blueprints to identify wiring circuits and coordinating with team members to install light fixtures and other items.

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Electrician duties and responsibilities

Electricians use a variety of industry-specific tools to perform their tasks, including ammeters, voltmeters, thermal scanners and cable testers. They must:

  • Understand and apply blueprints and technical diagrams
  • Inspect electrical components including transformers and circuit breakers
  • Use testing devices to identify and report electrical problems
  • Use hand and power tools
  • Adhere to state and local building regulations
  • Complete work orders on time
  • Create records of materials used
  • Set up and test computer systems by running cables and connecting computer jacks and plugs
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Electrician Job Description Examples

What does an Electrician do?

Electricians typically work for electrical companies, maintenance services or contractors to complete various tasks. They work closely with other Electricians and Maintenance Workers to install and repair electrical systems. Their job is to install circuit boards, outlets and other electrical equipment. They also work to troubleshoot electrical problems and make repairs accordingly. They may also take inventory of tools and supplies and place orders based on future jobs.

Electrician skills and qualifications

An employable Electrician must be adept at performing a wide variety of skills, including:

  • Exceptional communication and customer service skills
  • Ability to identify wires accurately
  • Ability to perform electrical tests, read results and diagnose and repair electrical problems
  • Problem-solving
  • Critical thinking
  • Circuit knowledge
  • Time management
  • Strong work ethic

Electrician salary expectations

An Electrician makes an average of $25.08 per hour. Pay rate may depend on level of experience, education and the geographical location.

Electrician education and training requirements

Electricians need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Most Electricians attend technical schools where studies include circuitry, electrical safety and basic electrical knowledge. To be considered as a qualified Electrician, students must pass an electrical exam to obtain their license. Ongoing education may be a requirement for an Electrician to maintain their current license. Electricians need to know and apply the current safety requirements, which may change over time.

Electrician experience requirements

Most Electricians undergo an apprenticeship to get experience while under the supervision of a licensed professional. An electrical apprentice studies electrical theory, electrical code standards, safety practices and first aid. Some Electricians also learn soldering skills, business communications, fire and alarm systems and elevators. The three different ranks of an Electrician are apprentice, journeyman and master. Master Electricians can train and supervise both apprentices and journeymen.

Job description samples for similar positions

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Frequently asked questions about Electricians

What is the difference between an Electrician and an Electrical Engineer?

The main difference between an Electrician and an Electrical Engineer is that Electricians tend to install and repair electrical systems. In contrast, Electrical Engineers work to create electrical equipment like power generators and other appliances. Further, Electricians and Electrical Engineers have different education requirements. Electricians need a high school diploma before graduating from a technical school and obtaining their Electrician’s license. In contrast, Electrical Engineers need at least a bachelor’s degree in education, but some employers may prefer Electrical Engineers to have a master’s degree in electrical engineering.

What are the daily duties of Electricians?

On a typical day, an Electrician starts by arriving at their company location. They review their job schedule for the day and organize tools and supplies to load into their work van for each job. Throughout the day, they travel to different job sites with their team to perform routine installations of wires, light fixtures, circuits or outlets. They also troubleshoot and repair electrical systems. Once they complete each job, they notify the property owner about what they did, collect payment and provide a business card for future needs.

When they arrive back to their company location, they unload tools and supplies, take inventory and review jobs for the next day.

What qualities make a good Electrician?

A good Electrician is someone who has expertise in a variety of areas relating to electrical wiring and troubleshooting procedures. They have a team-oriented mindset that enables them to work with other Electricians and Maintenance Workers to complete or troubleshoot tasks. Electricians should also follow an ethical code, especially when performing jobs at residential properties. Having a moral code ensures that they uphold the credibility of their company through their actions and help homeowners feel at ease with them in their homes.

Further, a good Electrician should have a personable nature that allows them to participate in positive communication with their clients to enhance customer service procedures at their company.

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