AdminA licensed electrical contractor can work in various industries. They can also perform construction projects of different types. They are a key part of the building process and help architects design the building’s systems.
They can also perform work on high-voltage lines to transport electricity from power plants to homes and businesses. These electrical contractors must be able to read and understand blueprints.
Qualifications
One of the main goals in life for most people is to have a career that provides them with a stable income and a secure future. While there are many industries that can offer this, perhaps none is as promising as the construction industry.
Electrical contractors are responsible for the installation and maintenance of electrical systems within buildings. The work can be complex and dangerous, so these professionals need to have the proper skills, experience and training.
To become an electrical contractor, you need to undergo a rigorous exam and licensing process. Fortunately, there are many prep classes and test resources available to help you get ready. You also need to have at least two years of experience working as a journeyman electrician under the supervision of a master electrician. In addition, you must have general liability insurance and proof that you or your company are licensed as a master electrician. These requirements vary by state.
Licenses
Most states require contractors to hold a license before performing electrical work. This ensures that they have liability insurance in case of accidents or damage to property during the job. It also means that they have passed a background check and meet other state and local requirements.
In addition to a state electrician’s license, some electrical contractors need additional licensing for specific types of work. For example, if you specialize in fire alarms, you need an additional license to work on those systems. Many states also have different licensing requirements for residential and commercial work, so you need to know the rules for each region where you plan to work.
If you’re not licensed, you may face fines or other penalties from state and local authorities. Most states have online resources that allow you to find out the required licenses for your area. You can also sign up for a class to prepare for your exam.
Experience
Accumulating relevant experience is pivotal for ensuring your work in the field as an electrical contractor is top-notch. Many trade schools offer apprenticeship programs, which provide a combination of classroom-based and hands-on training to prepare you for becoming a licensed electrician.
You may also gain relevant skills while working as an electrician’s assistant, which is an entry-level position that provides you with hands-on experience to help you become a licensed journeyman electrician. From there, you can start your own business or continue your education and career as a master electrical contractor.
Electricians are often the main point of contact between customers and their company, so it’s important to have excellent customer service skills. They should be able to explain complex technical information in a way that makes sense for non-electricians and have a good understanding of their client’s needs. This can be done by communicating effectively and keeping their workspace clean and organized. They also need to have the ability to make quick measurement calculations and conversions on the fly.
Personality
A contractor should have a professional demeanor and be reliable. They should also have good communication skills because they work closely with clients, supervisors, and other workers on a daily basis. They need to be able to explain technical issues in a way that everyone can understand.
There is no scientific exploration into what personality traits are ideal for electricians, but ISTP (Introverted-Sensing-Thinking-Perceiving) Myers Briggs personality types tend to have the best chances of being successful. These people have innate mechanical ability and enjoy building things. They are also attentive to detail, independent and self-directed.
Safety is a top priority for any Electrical Contractor, as their job can be dangerous if not done correctly. They must be willing to learn new techniques and keep up with current trends in the industry.