An electrician specializes in electrical wiring, distribution lines, power poles, stationary electric machines, and other related electric equipment. Electricians can be employed either in installing new electric components in your home or the repair and maintenance of already existing electrical infrastructure. Basically, there are three kinds of electricians. They are general engineers, consultants, and operators. Electricians also form an integral part of the construction team of any building they are associated with.
General Electricians deal with large-scale commercial works such as power plants and industrial production lines. They need to know about electricity, its properties, and how it affects different fields. Electricians may work in factories and offices, inside buildings, and even on farms. They are usually required to have an advanced degree and extensive experience in their field to ensure that they can perform their duties safely and effectively.
The second type of electrician is an experienced electrician who has obtained the license for working in their particular field. Electricians who have acquired the license may work both inside and outside the premises. Usually, licensed electricians are those who have gained experience while attending electrician apprenticeship programs. These training programs are usually eight to sixteen weeks long. Most apprentices acquire their license after completing the initial coursework. There are some electricians who attend vocational and trade schools to complete their formal education.
Electricians who have gained a diploma or degree will have the knowledge and skills needed to perform a variety of tasks within their line of work. The majority of electricians work in industrial facilities where they install and repair power poles, transformers, generators, and other electrical equipment. Some electricians work on construction site sites for hours on end without the opportunity to complete work on their personal cars or trucks. Whatever the location, all electricians work under the supervision of a qualified electrician supervisor.
Electrician supervisors are responsible for hiring and supervising their own crew of electricians. A typical day for an electrician includes completion of general duties, such as installing wiring and components; preparing and installing circuit boards; and inspecting components for defective wiring or fabrication. Electrician assistants are also involved in the process of completing various wiring jobs, as well as performing general maintenance duties on various electrical equipment. Electrician assistants must also be knowledgeable about construction site safety and the rules and regulations pertaining to the use of power lines and materials.
Electricians work side by side with their supervisors and electrician assistants. Electricians work in pairs or teams to complete electrical projects. Electricity is supplied to a wide variety of job sites including residences, factories, hotels, businesses, and public buildings. Most power plants and other commercial electrical systems require a substantial number of electricians, technicians, and electrician assistants. In addition, public works and schools commonly use large numbers of electricians.
Electricians may work for a variety of different contractors, depending upon the size of the job and the complexity of the task. Generally there are two types of electricians – journeyman electricians and registered electricians. Journeyman electricians work for one company on a temporary basis and register with that company when they complete their journeyman contract. They do not have to complete a certification program to qualify for a journeyman position.
The registration status of electricians is determined by two tests – The National Association of Electrical Contractors (NACE) Registration exam and the Midsouth Code Certification Exam. Midsouth Code requires an applicant to take a specific set of tests to obtain a Midsouth Code certification. Registrants are required to pay an additional fee for their certification. Electrical contractors are required to obtain an examination from NACE or the Midsouth Code Board every two years. The completion of these examinations will enable electricians to display knowledge of the most recent industry trends. Electricians who are unable to demonstrate continued knowledge will not be allowed to renew their registration.
