What Does a Industrial Electrician Do?
An Industrial Electrician is a crucial role in the Electrical Trades sector of the Construction industry. If you decide on this career path, your main duty will be to maintain and repair the electrical systems within commercial and industrial facilities. By testing components, diagnosing problems, and replacing faulty parts, you will ensure that these systems operate effectively and safely.
In a typical workday, you might work with blueprints, use specialized testing tools, and operate heavy equipment. You will work in a variety of environments, from towering skyscrapers under construction to bustling factories. Attention to detail and safety are critical in this field, as working with electricity can pose significant risks.
As an Industrial Electrician, you are not confined to a desk; instead, you are hands-on, tackling real-world electrical challenges. This exciting and fulfilling career could be perfect if you enjoy problem-solving and physical work.
Skills Required
Technical Skills
- Electrical Systems Installation
- Electrical Codes Knowledge
- Blueprint Reading
- Safety Protocols
- Use of Power and Hand Tools
- Troubleshooting
- Control Systems
- Preventive Maintenance
Soft Skills
- Problem Solving
- Time Management
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Adaptability
- Attention to Detail
Technical Skills
- Electrical Systems Installation
- Electrical Codes Knowledge
- Blueprint Reading
- Safety Protocols
- Use of Power and Hand Tools
- Troubleshooting
- Control Systems
- Preventive Maintenance
Soft Skills
- Problem Solving
- Time Management
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Adaptability
- Attention to Detail
Education and Training Requirements
Required Education
- High School Diploma: Complete high school education or obtain GED equivalent. A strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and related technical subjects is beneficial.
- Pre-Apprenticeship Training: It's advisable to complete a pre-apprenticeship training program at a trade or vocational school. This training covers basic knowledge of electrical systems.
- Apprenticeship Program: Apply for an apprenticeship program. This entails on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced electricians and related coursework.
- Journeyman Certification: After completing the apprenticeship, you must pass the journeyman electrician examination to become a certified journeyman electrician.
- Industrial Electrician Specialization: At this stage, further on-the-job training may be required to specialize in industrial electrical work, dealing with complex electrical systems in industrial settings.
- Master Electrician Certification: After gaining sufficient experience, you may opt to take an examination to become a master electrician, which opens up higher job opportunities and the ability to start your own electrical contracting business.
- High School Diploma: Complete high school education or obtain GED equivalent. A strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and related technical subjects is beneficial.
- Pre-Apprenticeship Training: It's advisable to complete a pre-apprenticeship training program at a trade or vocational school. This training covers basic knowledge of electrical systems.
- Apprenticeship Program: Apply for an apprenticeship program. This entails on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced electricians and related coursework.
- Journeyman Certification: After completing the apprenticeship, you must pass the journeyman electrician examination to become a certified journeyman electrician.
- Industrial Electrician Specialization: At this stage, further on-the-job training may be required to specialize in industrial electrical work, dealing with complex electrical systems in industrial settings.
- Master Electrician Certification: After gaining sufficient experience, you may opt to take an examination to become a master electrician, which opens up higher job opportunities and the ability to start your own electrical contracting business.
Licensing and Certification
State Requirements
Required in most states