Top 11 Journeyman Electrician Certifications

Certifications are important for a journeyman electrician in the job market because they demonstrate proficiency and knowledge in the trade. Employers want to hire qualified, experienced workers who can safely perform the duties required of them. Certifications provide evidence that an individual has been trained and tested on specific topics related to their trade. They also show employers that an individual has taken the time to further develop their skills and stay up to date with current industry standards. Certifications not only give journeyman electricians an edge when applying for jobs, but they also help ensure that employers are hiring qualified professionals who can do a safe and effective job.

The purpose of this article is to review top certifications for Journeyman Electricians and explain how they can help advance a journeyman electrician's career.

What are Journeyman Electrician Certifications?

Journeyman electrician certification is a form of professional certification that demonstrates an individual has achieved the necessary skills and knowledge to work as an electrician. It is generally awarded after completing an apprenticeship program or other type of training program, and it indicates that the individual has demonstrated proficiency in all aspects of electrical installation and repair.

Having journeyman electrician certification can help individuals in many ways, primarily by providing them with a competitive advantage when seeking employment. With this certification, electricians will be more likely to be hired for jobs, as employers will know they are qualified to do the job. Additionally, having journeyman electrician certification can often lead to higher wages than those without the certification. Journeyman electricians may also have access to better benefits than those without the certification, such as health insurance or retirement plans. Finally, having journeyman electrician certification may open up opportunities for advancement within a company or organization.

Pro Tip: To become a certified journeyman electrician, you must have at least 8,000 hours of hands-on experience in the field and pass an exam. It is important to stay up-to-date on all safety regulations and electrical codes to ensure that you are qualified for the certification. Additionally, many states require journeyman electricians to complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their certification.

Related: What does a Journeyman Electrician do?

Top 11 Journeyman Electrician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Journeyman Electricians today.

1. National Electrical Code (NEC)

The National Electrical Code (NEC) is a set of safety standards for the installation and maintenance of electrical wiring and equipment in the United States. It is published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The NEC is updated every three years, with the most recent edition being published in 2017.

The NEC provides guidance on the safe installation and use of electrical wiring and equipment, including requirements for grounding, overcurrent protection, insulation, and other safety measures. It also covers topics such as hazardous locations, emergency systems, energy conservation, fire alarm systems, communications systems, and more.

The NEC is available for purchase from NFPA or through various booksellers. It typically takes 1-2 weeks to get a copy of the code once you order it. The cost varies depending on where you purchase it from but generally ranges from $50-$100 for a single copy.

2. OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health

OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health is a voluntary course offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to provide workers with an introduction to basic safety and health hazards in the construction industry. The course is intended to help employers meet OSHA requirements for training employees on safety and health topics.

The OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health course typically takes about 10 hours to complete, depending on the number of participants. It can be taken in a classroom setting or online, with both options offering interactive activities, quizzes, and other learning tools. The course covers topics such as fall protection, scaffolding, electrical safety, personal protective equipment, hazard communication, and more.

To get an OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety and Health certification card, you must successfully complete the course from an authorized provider. There are several providers who offer this course online or in person at their facility. Prices vary depending on the provider; however, most courses cost between $100-$200 USD.

3. NFPA 70E Electrical Safety in the Workplace

NFPA 70E, also known as the Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, is a set of guidelines and best practices designed to protect workers from electrical hazards in the workplace. It was developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and is updated regularly.

The NFPA 70E standard covers topics such as safety-related work practices, arc flash hazard analysis, personal protective equipment (PPE), training requirements, and maintenance requirements. It also provides guidance on how to identify potential electrical hazards in the workplace and how to reduce or eliminate them.

It typically takes about three months to obtain NFPA 70E certification. The process involves completing an online course or attending an instructor-led course at an approved training center. In addition, employers must demonstrate that they have implemented all of the necessary safety procedures outlined in NFPA 70E before they can be certified.

The cost of obtaining NFPA 70E certification varies depending on the type of training chosen and other factors such as location and number of participants. Generally speaking, online courses start at around $100 per person while instructor-led courses can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 per person depending on length and complexity.

4. Basic Electricity and Electronics Theory

Basic Electricity and Electronics Theory is the foundation of electrical engineering. It covers the fundamental concepts and principles of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. This includes topics such as Ohm’s law, Kirchhoff’s laws, circuit analysis, AC/DC theory, semiconductor devices, digital logic circuits, and power systems.

It typically takes around one to two years to gain a comprehensive understanding of Basic Electricity and Electronics Theory. This can be done through a combination of formal education (such as an associate or bachelor's degree in electrical engineering) or through self-study by reading textbooks or taking online courses.

The cost of gaining a comprehensive understanding of Basic Electricity and Electronics Theory will depend on how you choose to learn it. If you decide to pursue a formal education in electrical engineering then tuition costs will vary depending on the school you attend. Self-study options such as textbooks or online courses are generally more affordable but may take longer to complete than a formal degree program.

5. Motor Control Theory

Motor Control Theory is a theory that explains how the human body moves and controls its movements. It is based on the idea that movement is controlled by the nervous system, which consists of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Motor Control Theory suggests that motor skills are acquired through practice and repetition. It also proposes that different muscles must be trained in order to perform certain tasks.

The process of learning motor control takes time and effort. Depending on the skill being learned, it can take anywhere from days to months or even years to reach mastery. The amount of time required will depend on the complexity of the skill being learned as well as an individual’s natural ability level.

In order to learn motor control, individuals must practice regularly and focus on proper technique. This means breaking down complex movements into smaller components and practicing each component separately until it becomes second nature. Additionally, individuals should focus on form rather than speed in order to ensure correct muscle recruitment patterns are established.

The cost of learning motor control varies depending on the type of instruction one receives. Private lessons with a qualified instructor may be more expensive than attending group classes or purchasing instructional videos online. Additionally, equipment such as weights or exercise machines may need to be purchased in order for an individual to practice certain skills at home.

6. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)

A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a type of computer-based control system that is used in industrial automation applications. It is designed to replace the traditional hardwired relay logic, which was used for controlling machines and processes in the past. PLCs are programmed using a specialized programming language, such as ladder logic or structured text, to control various types of equipment and processes.

The time it takes to get a PLC depends on the complexity of the application and the availability of components. For simple applications, it can take less than an hour to install and program a PLC. For more complex applications, it can take several days or even weeks for installation and programming.

To get a PLC, you will need to purchase one from an industrial automation supplier or manufacturer. There are many different types of PLCs available on the market today, so it’s important to research which one is best suited for your specific application before making a purchase decision.

The cost of a PLC varies widely depending on its features and capabilities. Basic models can cost anywhere from $100-$500 USD while more advanced models can cost up to $10,000 USD or more.

7. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards. The NFPA develops, publishes and disseminates more than 300 consensus codes and standards intended to minimize the possibility and effects of fire and other risks.

NFPA standards are developed through a consensus process that involves a wide range of stakeholders from industry, government, academia and the public. This process takes an average of three years from initial concept to final adoption. The standards are periodically updated as new information becomes available or technology changes.

To obtain NFPA standards you must become an NFPA member or purchase individual standards from the NFPA store. Membership includes access to all current codes and standards for one year with free updates as they are issued. Prices for individual standards vary depending on the document.

8. Industrial Automation and Control Systems

Industrial Automation and Control Systems (IACS) are systems that enable the automation of industrial processes, such as manufacturing, packaging, and material handling. These systems use sensors and actuators to monitor and control physical processes. They provide feedback loops to ensure that the process is running as expected.

IACS can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to get up and running, depending on the complexity of the system and the number of components involved. The cost of IACS depends on the size and scope of the project, but typically ranges from tens of thousands to millions of dollars.

To get an IACS system, you must first determine what type of system you need for your particular application. Then you will need to find a vendor who can provide you with a comprehensive solution that meets your requirements. You should also consider any additional features or services that may be needed in order to fully automate your process. Finally, you will need to negotiate a contract with the vendor for installation and maintenance services.

9. Power Distribution Systems Design and Installation

Power Distribution Systems Design and Installation is a process of designing and installing an electrical power distribution system. This system is responsible for distributing electricity from the source to the various loads in a building or facility. It includes the design of the power distribution system, its components, and the installation of all necessary equipment.

The design process begins with an analysis of the building's needs and requirements, such as what type of electrical loads will be present, how much power each load requires, and how many circuits are needed to meet those demands. This information is then used to create a detailed schematic diagram that outlines all of the components needed for the system. Once this diagram is complete, it can be used to determine which type of equipment should be used for each component.

The installation process involves connecting all of the components together according to the schematic diagram. This includes running wiring between components, mounting circuit breakers and other safety devices, and connecting them to their respective sources or loads. The entire installation must comply with local codes and regulations in order to ensure safety and reliability.

The length of time required for Power Distribution Systems Design and Installation depends on several factors including size of project, complexity of design, availability of materials, etc. In general, it can take anywhere from a few days up to several weeks depending on these factors.

In order to get Power Distribution Systems Design and Installation done correctly, it is important to hire a qualified electrician who has experience in this area. They should be able to provide you with a detailed cost estimate based on your specific needs before beginning any work.

The cost for Power Distribution Systems Design and Installation can vary greatly depending on numerous factors such as size of project, complexity of design, availability of materials, etc., but typically ranges from $1-2 per square foot installed (including labor).

10. Low Voltage Wiring Techniques

Low Voltage Wiring Techniques (LVWT) is a method of wiring electrical systems that uses low voltage cables and components. This technique allows for the installation of electrical systems in areas where traditional high voltage wiring would be too dangerous or impractical. Low voltage wiring techniques are used in many applications, such as security systems, home automation, lighting control, and audio/video systems.

Low voltage wiring typically requires specialized tools and knowledge to install properly. It is important to hire a qualified electrician who has experience with LVWT when installing any type of low voltage system. The installation process can take anywhere from a few hours to several days depending on the size and complexity of the system being installed.

The cost of low voltage wiring will vary depending on the type and complexity of the system being installed, as well as the amount of labor required for installation. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

In addition to labor costs, there may also be additional materials needed for installation such as conduit, junction boxes, connectors, etc., which will add to the overall cost of the project.

11. Grounding and Bonding Practices

Grounding and Bonding Practices are safety measures that help protect people from electrical shock. It is a process of connecting electrical equipment to the earth or ground, and then bonding all metal components together in order to ensure they are at the same potential. This helps to prevent any dangerous current from flowing through the system, which can cause injury or death.

The time it takes to get Grounding and Bonding Practices in place depends on the complexity of the system, but typically it can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. To get Grounding and Bonding Practices in place, an electrician must be hired to inspect the system and make sure all components are properly connected and grounded. The electrician will also need to install any necessary grounding rods or other equipment needed for proper operation.

The cost of Grounding and Bonding Practices varies depending on the complexity of the system, but typically it ranges from a few hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars. This cost includes labor costs for installation as well as materials such as grounding rods, clamps, etc.

Do You Really Need a Journeyman Electrician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your career goals. A journeyman electrician certificate is a document that certifies that an individual has completed a state-approved apprenticeship program and has acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to work as an electrician. While having this certification can be beneficial, it may not be necessary for everyone.

If you are looking for a job as an electrician, then having a journeyman electrician certificate can help you stand out from other applicants in the field. It demonstrates that you have the qualifications and training required to perform electrical work safely and effectively. This certificate will also give employers confidence in your abilities and may provide higher pay rates than those without the certification. Additionally, having a journeyman’s license may enable you to pursue more advanced positions within the industry.

On the other hand, if you are interested in pursuing other career paths within the electrical industry, such as engineering or management, then having a journeyman electrician certificate may not be necessary. In these cases, additional education and experience may be more important than certification. However, depending on the employer or position you are applying for, they may still require some level of certification or training before considering your application.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a journeyman electrician certificate depends on your individual career goals and interests. If you plan to stay within the field of electrical work then obtaining this certification is likely beneficial; however, if you have ambitions beyond just being an electrician then additional education or experience may be what is most valuable to employers.

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FAQs About Journeyman Electrician Certifications

Q1. What is a Journeyman Electrician Certification?

A1. A Journeyman Electrician Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the electrical trade. It is awarded to those who have successfully completed an approved apprenticeship program, passed the appropriate examinations, and met any other requirements set by their state or local jurisdiction.

Q2. How long does it take to become a certified Journeyman Electrician?

A2. The time it takes to become a certified Journeyman Electrician varies depending on the individual's experience and education level, as well as the requirements of their state or local jurisdiction. Generally speaking, it can take up to four years of combined classroom instruction and on-the-job training in order to become certified.

Q3. Are there any prerequisites for getting a Journeyman Electrician Certification?

A3. Yes, most states require those seeking certification to have at least 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under the supervision of a qualified master electrician before they can take the exam for certification. Additionally, some states may require applicants to have certain educational qualifications such as completing high school or earning an associate's degree in electrical technology prior to taking the exam for certification.

Q4. What are the benefits of having a Journeyman Electrician Certification?

A4: Having a Journeyman Electrician Certification can open up doors for career advancement opportunities in the electrical industry and provide higher earning potential due to increased job responsibilities and pay scales associated with this type of credentialing. In addition, having this credential may also make one eligible for additional certifications or specializations within the field that could further increase their earning potential and career prospects down the road.

Q5. How often do I need to renew my Journeyman Electrician Certification?

A5: Renewal requirements vary from state to state but generally speaking most jurisdictions require renewal every three years in order for one's certification status to remain valid and up-to-date with industry standards and practices.