5 answers
Nathan
Student
Hopewell, Virginia
3
Questions
Asked
660 views
What do you do on a daily basis as an electrician and is it hard?
Im in 10th grade and interesresred in trade jobs and will like to know what some of them are like.
Login to comment
5 answers
Brian Dreher
Security and Access Coordinator
3
Answers
New Britain, Connecticut
Updated
Brian’s Answer
I work in security and access control. I’m at a University and spend most days updating servers, managing IP based devices and programming within our systems. I will also physically service devices replacing hardware and install new cameras, locks and various detection devices. Designing new solutions as needed and managing contractors on projects is also part of my job.
Electrical is a great trade it can be extremely physical or technical. Really whatever you make it.
Electrical is a great trade it can be extremely physical or technical. Really whatever you make it.
Scott Fisher
Painter
9
Answers
Bloomington, Illinois
Updated
Scott’s Answer
Louis’s answer was spot on, the only thing I would add is if you a local electrical union they normally provide a great apprenticeship program so check with them while you are checking out trade schools etc. the good thing about that is you can earn while you learn. Other than that it is a great trade and important! There is so much variety you will have many choice you could specialize in. Best of luck to you!
Louise Mackin
1
Answer
Updated
Louise’s Answer
Hello! Being an electrician is an excellent career choice! I've spent many years in human resources, specifically recruiting electricians, so I'm confident I can provide some insight into your query.
Your daily tasks as an electrician can greatly vary depending on the specific role you choose. If you're employed by a large company or a local government body responsible for maintaining power lines, your duties might involve working on and repairing high-voltage equipment like power lines and transformers. On the other hand, as a domestic electrician, you might find yourself dealing with tasks such as repairing fuse boxes, addressing overloaded circuits, and fixing defective wiring. There's also the option of working in new housing projects where you'll be tasked with installing wiring systems from scratch. Moreover, there's a wealth of opportunities for self-employment in the electrician field if that's something you're interested in.
Becoming an electrician requires a significant amount of knowledge, but that's where trade schools come in! These institutions equip you with all the necessary knowledge and skills. Typically, they don't have many academic prerequisites, although some might require a basic understanding of mathematics. If you're feeling apprehensive, I recommend reaching out to your local college or trade school. They can usually provide a detailed breakdown of the course. Many individuals opt for trades because conventional academic or desk jobs don't appeal to them. So, don't worry if you didn't excel academically at school. In this field, a readiness to learn and a knack for hands-on tasks are far more valuable. This applies to many other trades, such as construction. Trade schools are fantastic starting points for a potentially lucrative career.
Best of luck on your journey!
Your daily tasks as an electrician can greatly vary depending on the specific role you choose. If you're employed by a large company or a local government body responsible for maintaining power lines, your duties might involve working on and repairing high-voltage equipment like power lines and transformers. On the other hand, as a domestic electrician, you might find yourself dealing with tasks such as repairing fuse boxes, addressing overloaded circuits, and fixing defective wiring. There's also the option of working in new housing projects where you'll be tasked with installing wiring systems from scratch. Moreover, there's a wealth of opportunities for self-employment in the electrician field if that's something you're interested in.
Becoming an electrician requires a significant amount of knowledge, but that's where trade schools come in! These institutions equip you with all the necessary knowledge and skills. Typically, they don't have many academic prerequisites, although some might require a basic understanding of mathematics. If you're feeling apprehensive, I recommend reaching out to your local college or trade school. They can usually provide a detailed breakdown of the course. Many individuals opt for trades because conventional academic or desk jobs don't appeal to them. So, don't worry if you didn't excel academically at school. In this field, a readiness to learn and a knack for hands-on tasks are far more valuable. This applies to many other trades, such as construction. Trade schools are fantastic starting points for a potentially lucrative career.
Best of luck on your journey!
Angel S
UI/UX Design Aspirant
369
Answers
India
Updated
Angel’s Answer
As an electrician, your daily tasks vary depending on the type of work, but typically include:
Installing & repairing electrical systems: This could be residential, commercial, or industrial wiring, outlets, switches, and lighting.
Reading blueprints: To plan electrical systems and ensure safe installations.
Troubleshooting issues: Diagnosing problems with circuits, wiring, or electrical equipment.
Maintaining safety standards: Ensuring compliance with regulations and working safely with electricity.
Installing & repairing electrical systems: This could be residential, commercial, or industrial wiring, outlets, switches, and lighting.
Reading blueprints: To plan electrical systems and ensure safe installations.
Troubleshooting issues: Diagnosing problems with circuits, wiring, or electrical equipment.
Maintaining safety standards: Ensuring compliance with regulations and working safely with electricity.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6357
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Nathan!
Daily Responsibilities of an Electrician
As an electrician, your daily responsibilities can vary widely depending on the specific job site, the type of electrical work being performed, and whether you are working in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you might do on a daily basis:
Planning and Preparation:
Before starting any job, electricians often review blueprints and technical diagrams to understand the layout of electrical systems. This includes identifying where wiring will be installed and determining the necessary materials.
They may also gather tools and equipment needed for the day’s tasks, which can include wire strippers, pliers, screwdrivers, drills, and safety gear.
Installation Work:
A significant part of an electrician’s job involves installing new electrical systems. This could mean running wires through walls, ceilings, or underground conduits.
Electricians install outlets, switches, circuit breakers, and lighting fixtures according to local codes and regulations.
Maintenance and Repair:
Electricians frequently perform maintenance on existing electrical systems to ensure they are functioning properly. This can involve troubleshooting issues such as flickering lights or tripped circuit breakers.
Repairs may include replacing faulty wiring or components that have worn out over time.
Testing Systems:
After installation or repair work is completed, electricians test systems to ensure everything is working correctly. This involves using specialized tools to measure voltage levels and check for proper grounding.
Compliance with Safety Standards:
Safety is paramount in electrical work. Electricians must adhere to strict safety protocols to prevent accidents such as electrocution or fires.
They often wear personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and goggles while working with live circuits.
Documentation:
Keeping accurate records of work performed is essential for compliance with local regulations and for future reference. Electricians may document their installations or repairs in reports.
Communication:
Electricians often communicate with clients about their needs and explain the work being done. They may also collaborate with other tradespeople on larger projects.
Continual Learning:
The field of electrical work is constantly evolving due to new technologies and regulations. Electricians must stay updated through ongoing education and training.
Is It Hard?
The difficulty of being an electrician can vary based on several factors:
Physical Demands: The job can be physically demanding; electricians often lift heavy materials, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces.
Technical Skills Required: Understanding complex electrical systems requires a solid grasp of mathematics (for calculations involving voltage, current, resistance), physics (understanding how electricity works), and technical skills (reading blueprints).
Problem-Solving Skills: Troubleshooting issues requires critical thinking skills to diagnose problems accurately.
Work Environment Variability: Working conditions can change dramatically from one job site to another—some may be indoors in comfortable environments while others could be outdoors in inclement weather.
Overall, while there are challenges associated with being an electrician—such as physical labor and the need for technical knowledge—many find it rewarding due to the variety of tasks involved and the satisfaction that comes from solving problems and completing projects successfully.
In conclusion, if you enjoy hands-on work that involves problem-solving within a structured environment where safety is prioritized, a career as an electrician could be a good fit for you.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Provides comprehensive data on job responsibilities, working conditions, salary expectations, and employment outlook for electricians.
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA): Offers resources related to training programs for electricians along with industry standards that highlight daily tasks involved in electrical work.
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW): A union that provides insights into the profession including training requirements and safety practices essential for electricians.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.
Daily Responsibilities of an Electrician
As an electrician, your daily responsibilities can vary widely depending on the specific job site, the type of electrical work being performed, and whether you are working in residential, commercial, or industrial settings. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you might do on a daily basis:
Planning and Preparation:
Before starting any job, electricians often review blueprints and technical diagrams to understand the layout of electrical systems. This includes identifying where wiring will be installed and determining the necessary materials.
They may also gather tools and equipment needed for the day’s tasks, which can include wire strippers, pliers, screwdrivers, drills, and safety gear.
Installation Work:
A significant part of an electrician’s job involves installing new electrical systems. This could mean running wires through walls, ceilings, or underground conduits.
Electricians install outlets, switches, circuit breakers, and lighting fixtures according to local codes and regulations.
Maintenance and Repair:
Electricians frequently perform maintenance on existing electrical systems to ensure they are functioning properly. This can involve troubleshooting issues such as flickering lights or tripped circuit breakers.
Repairs may include replacing faulty wiring or components that have worn out over time.
Testing Systems:
After installation or repair work is completed, electricians test systems to ensure everything is working correctly. This involves using specialized tools to measure voltage levels and check for proper grounding.
Compliance with Safety Standards:
Safety is paramount in electrical work. Electricians must adhere to strict safety protocols to prevent accidents such as electrocution or fires.
They often wear personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and goggles while working with live circuits.
Documentation:
Keeping accurate records of work performed is essential for compliance with local regulations and for future reference. Electricians may document their installations or repairs in reports.
Communication:
Electricians often communicate with clients about their needs and explain the work being done. They may also collaborate with other tradespeople on larger projects.
Continual Learning:
The field of electrical work is constantly evolving due to new technologies and regulations. Electricians must stay updated through ongoing education and training.
Is It Hard?
The difficulty of being an electrician can vary based on several factors:
Physical Demands: The job can be physically demanding; electricians often lift heavy materials, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces.
Technical Skills Required: Understanding complex electrical systems requires a solid grasp of mathematics (for calculations involving voltage, current, resistance), physics (understanding how electricity works), and technical skills (reading blueprints).
Problem-Solving Skills: Troubleshooting issues requires critical thinking skills to diagnose problems accurately.
Work Environment Variability: Working conditions can change dramatically from one job site to another—some may be indoors in comfortable environments while others could be outdoors in inclement weather.
Overall, while there are challenges associated with being an electrician—such as physical labor and the need for technical knowledge—many find it rewarding due to the variety of tasks involved and the satisfaction that comes from solving problems and completing projects successfully.
In conclusion, if you enjoy hands-on work that involves problem-solving within a structured environment where safety is prioritized, a career as an electrician could be a good fit for you.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Provides comprehensive data on job responsibilities, working conditions, salary expectations, and employment outlook for electricians.
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA): Offers resources related to training programs for electricians along with industry standards that highlight daily tasks involved in electrical work.
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW): A union that provides insights into the profession including training requirements and safety practices essential for electricians.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless!
JC.