Position Overview
Electrical contractors or electricians work with electrical equipment, machines, and wiring systems. They work in both residential and commercial settings.
As an electrical contractor, your main job will be to read blueprints and diagrams in order to determine how to install wiring in new buildings.
Also, you will be working on existing electrical systems, often fixing and maintaining them.
In addition, your work will include determining issues, and troubleshooting problems with electrical systems and components.
While working as an electrical contractor, you will also be required to maintain and repair motors, equipment, and control systems, especially in a commercial capacity.
Education
To be eligible to work as an electrical contractor, you must possess a high school diploma or a GED at the very least. However, an apprenticeship program will help you even more in learning the tricks of the trade.
Electrical Contractor Job Description and Duties
• Study blueprints and building designs in order to determine wiring maps
• Examine wiring maps to figure out what materials, supplies, and equipment is needed for installation
• Assemble and install electrical or electronic wiring and equipment
• Diagnose malfunctioning systems, and perform troubleshooting tasks
• Use power and hand tools to locate breakdown causes and correct the issue
• Install wires and provide proper insulation to them
• Connect wires to breakers and test them for functionality
• Inspect electrical systems and components in order to determine possible hazards and defects
• Determine need for adjustment or repair in order to ensure compliance with codes
• Suggest ways of improving current electrical systems
• Develop and monitor preventative maintenance inspections
• Perform outlet repair and replacement work
• Maintain and install electrical pedestals
• Repair and maintain circuit breakers and components
• Install new wires, chandeliers, and spot lights
• Inspect and repair / maintain electrical components such as transformers and circuit breakers
• Connect power supply circuits to radio, sonar, fire control, and other electronic equipment
• Drill holes and pull wiring through openings using power and hand tools
• Construct instrument panels by using hand tools, rulers, and dividers
• Recognize unsafe conditions, and perform measures to make them safe
• Determine electrical designs for new buildings
• Maintain work areas in order to ensure constant safety
• Measure, cut, bend, and install electrical conduit using hacksaws and pipe threaders
• Splice wires by stripping insulation from terminal ends
• Connect power cables to equipment and install grounding leads
• Test the continuity of circuits to ensure compatibility and safety