By zedcoalam Electrician careers are now upping in technical and manufacturing industries; and the job opportunities are not expected to go down in the next few decades. Electricians are experts that demonstrate various skills and someone who wishes to pursue this career must take the time to learn about the fundamentals of electricity and the different job descriptions.
If you are thinking of switching careers (a.k.a. – your job does not pay well) or are venturing into the professional world, then choosing an electrician’s path is a good decision. If you want to become self-employed in the long run, then being an electrician is also a road that will lead you to your dream.
These days, electrician jobs are mainly found in the manufacturing and construction industries so be prepared to take on that route.
Electrician – Employment Types
Electricians are now known by many names. They are sometimes referred to as electrical technicians or communication installers. Those who wish to become an expert in this field can choose from many different options. You can also be certified in a specific electrical repair work. Lines of specialization include –
- Control technician
- Cable splicing
- Electronics specialist
- Data communications
- Certified fire alarm specialist
- Certified fiber optics specialist
- Instrument fitter
- Marine
- Low voltage repair work
- Nuclear-certified
- MSHA-certified
- Tower climber
- Sub-station
- Motor repair
- Electrical and electronics repair
- Electrical and electronics installer
- Electrical engineering technicians
- Electrical drafters
- Electronic home entertainment equipment repairer or installer
- Lineman
- Electrical and electronics engineer
- Construction and building inspectors
- Elevator installation
- Maintenance professional
- Electronics technician
Making the decision to become a particular electrician significantly narrows down your options. It is vital that you explore each specialization and read about it before delving into it through enrolment.
Domestic electricians, for instance, are the ones that install and repair residential wiring systems. People with breaker unit issues need to call on this type of electrician.
Commercial electricians have trade setting skills. They are needed in places such as shopping malls, hospitals, schools, stores, restaurants and office buildings. Their line of work involves testing, installation and repairs of air conditioning and lighting systems. They are also the experts to call if a commercial establishment needs security or alarm systems.
Construction electricians are especially trained to deal with electrical structures for new buildings whether it be industrial, commercial or residential. They typically work together with architects, engineers and carpenters since they are hands-on during the construction process.
Industrial electricians work on electrical systems in workshops, factories and any type of industrial setting. Linemen, also known as journeymen electricians, specialize in setting up building electrical power systems.
The Electrician Job Description
The job description varies per specialty but many tasks are focused in the maintenance or construction field. There are some electricians that can incredibly do both. There are, of course, educational requirements for those who would want to become electricians. There are also some needful primary skills that will be required as well as a set of responsibilities. There are also jobs that require certification and advanced training in a particular trade or technique. Electricians also need to comply with local building and State codes.
‘Sounds like a lot? It does because you are really obliged to put in these requirements as it is also required of you to show relevant work experience. If you don’t have any experience yet, do not worry, most of the electrical training happens on-the-job so you acquire experience as you learn.