What Does an Electrician Do?
An electrician installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems that power homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. These professionals work with wiring, circuit breakers, outlets, lighting, and electrical panels to ensure safe and reliable operation. They read blueprints and technical diagrams, follow local and national electrical codes, and use specialized tools to troubleshoot and test electrical systems.
Electricians often work on new construction projects, remodels, or service calls. They may run conduit, install devices, upgrade outdated systems, or respond to emergency repairs. The role requires strong technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and a focus on safety in a variety of environments.
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Electrician Core Responsibilities
- Install and maintain electrical wiring, outlets, lighting, and circuit breakers
- Interpret blueprints, schematics, and wiring diagrams to plan layouts
- Ensure systems comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local regulations
- Perform inspections and troubleshooting of electrical systems
- Upgrade and replace panels, breakers, switches, and transformers
- Use diagnostic tools (e.g., multimeters, voltage testers) to identify issues
- Install conduit, cable trays, and other wiring infrastructure
- Maintain safety standards and use personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Communicate with project managers, clients, or inspectors as needed
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in electrical installation and maintenance techniques
- Ability to read and interpret electrical diagrams and blueprints
- Knowledge of NEC and local electrical codes
- Experience using hand and power tools, meters, and circuit testers
- Ability to perform load calculations and ensure grounding system compliance
Soft skills
- Strong problem-solving and diagnostic skills
- Physical stamina and dexterity for demanding environments
- Clear communication with coworkers and supervisors
- Time management and job site efficiency
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- Completion of an electrician apprenticeship or trade program
Certifications
- State or municipal electrician license (required for most roles)
- OSHA 10/30 certification
Additional certifications, such as NFPA 70E (arc flash safety) or low-voltage systems, may be beneficial based on specialty.
Preferred Qualifications
- 2–5 years of experience in residential, commercial, or industrial settings
- Experience with specialized systems (e.g., fire alarms, generators, HVAC wiring)
- Familiarity with digital work order systems or mobile apps
- Bilingual skills for field team or client communication
National Average Salary
Electrician salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for an Electrician is:
$71,522
Sample Job Description Templates for Electricians
Apprentice Electrician
Position Overview
An apprentice electrician works under the direct supervision of licensed electricians to learn the fundamentals of electrical installation, safety, and code compliance. This entry-level role is part of a formal apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Responsibilities
- Assist with installing wiring, outlets, switches, lighting fixtures, and panels
- Carry tools, materials, and equipment to job sites
- Learn to read blueprints, wiring diagrams, and local electrical codes
- Bend and install conduit, pull wire, and prep systems for inspection
- Observe safety protocols and proper use of PPE
- Maintain clean and organized job sites
Requirements
Hard skills
- Basic understanding of electrical systems and hand tools
- Willingness to learn NEC standards and code requirements
- Ability to follow instructions and standard safety procedures
Soft skills
- Eagerness to learn a skilled trade
- Strong work ethic and punctuality
- Good communication and team collaboration
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
Certifications
- Enrollment in a registered apprenticeship program
OSHA 10 certification recommended
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in construction or trade support
- Mechanical aptitude and comfort with physical labor
Journeyman Electrician
Position Overview
A journeyman electrician is a licensed professional who installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems with minimal supervision. They interpret electrical blueprints, ensure compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC), and are qualified to handle residential, commercial, or industrial work.
Responsibilities
- Install and repair wiring, circuits, panels, outlets, lighting, and control systems
- Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and NEC regulations
- Perform load calculations and ensure code compliance
- Troubleshoot faulty systems and make safe, permanent repairs
- Train and mentor apprentice electricians
- Coordinate inspections and maintain accurate job documentation
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in NEC-compliant installation and service work
- Ability to read wiring diagrams and perform diagnostics
- Experience with panel changes, conduit installation, and load testing
Soft skills
- Independent problem-solving
- Job site leadership and mentoring
- Strong communication and documentation skills
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a certified apprenticeship program
Certifications
- State or local journeyman electrician license
OSHA 30 certification preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 4–6 years of field experience
- Specialty experience (e.g., low-voltage, solar, fire alarm systems)
Master Electrician
Position Overview
A master electrician is a licensed expert responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing complex electrical systems. This role pulls permits, ensures compliance with all electrical codes, and supervises journeymen and apprentices across large-scale or high-stakes projects.
Responsibilities
- Design electrical systems and develop technical drawings and specifications
- Oversee and inspect electrical installations for NEC compliance
- Pull permits and coordinate with building inspectors and utility reps
- Estimate project costs and develop material takeoffs
- Supervise and mentor electrical staff at all levels
- Ensure job site safety and code adherence at all stages
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expert knowledge of NEC, NFPA 70E, and state/local electrical codes
- Ability to engineer systems and plan complex wiring layouts
- Project estimation and scope development skills
Soft skills
- Strategic decision-making and planning
- Team leadership and training
- Regulatory communication and inspection readiness
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of apprenticeship + journeyman requirements
Certifications
- Valid Master Electrician license
Project management or OSHA 30 certification preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years of electrical experience with leadership roles
- Experience managing large commercial or industrial projects
Lead Electrician
Position Overview
A lead electrician serves as the on-site supervisor responsible for coordinating electrical crews, managing installations, and ensuring project timelines are met. This role blends hands-on electrical work with leadership, quality control, and client communication.
Responsibilities
- Oversee day-to-day electrical operations and crew assignments
- Ensure proper installation of electrical systems per NEC code
- Perform inspections and troubleshooting to maintain work quality
- Communicate with project managers and coordinate with other trades
- Mentor apprentices and evaluate journeyman performance
- Track job progress and report issues or delays
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong working knowledge of electrical systems, tools, and safety procedures
- Ability to interpret plans and ensure code compliance
- Skilled in organizing team schedules and site logistics
Soft skills
- Effective team leadership and accountability
- Strong communication and coordination
- Conflict resolution and decision-making under pressure
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of apprenticeship program
Certifications
- Journeyman or Master Electrician license (varies by employer)
OSHA 30 and CPR certification preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 6+ years of electrical experience, including supervisory roles
- Experience managing multi-phase construction or service jobs