Electrician

Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes. May install or service street lights, intercom systems, or electrical control systems.

Educational Requirements

for Electricians
The typical entry level education for this occupation is a high school diploma or equivalent. Those with a postsecondary training (non-degree) have a competitive advantage in the labor market.

Knowledge

Examples of the knowledge needed for success in this occupation is listed below, in order of importance.
  • Building and Construction: Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
  • Mechanical: Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
  • Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
  • Design: Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
  • English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Skills

Examples of the skills needed for success in this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Troubleshooting: Figuring out what is causing equipment, machines, wiring, or computer programs to not work.
  • Repairing: Repairing machines or systems using the right tools.
  • Judgment and Decision Making: Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one.
  • Critical Thinking: Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.
  • Active Listening: Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.

Abilities

Examples of the abilities needed for success in this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Problem Sensitivity: Noticing when problems happen.
  • Near Vision: Seeing details up close.
  • Inductive Reasoning: Making general rules or coming up with answers from lots of detailed information.
  • Deductive Reasoning: Using rules to solve problems.
  • Oral Comprehension: Listening and understanding what people say.

Detailed Work Activities

Examples of the detailed work activities involved with this occupation are listed below, in order of importance.
  • Plan layout of construction, installation, or repairs.
  • Inspect electrical or electronic systems for defects.
  • Update job related knowledge or skills.
  • Thread wire or cable through ducts or conduits.
  • Communicate with other construction or extraction personnel to discuss project details.