What does an Apprentice Electrician do?
Published 3 min read
An apprentice electrician is someone who is learning how to become an electrician. They typically work under the supervision of a licensed electrician, and learn how to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems.
Apprentice Electrician job duties include:
- Learn how to safely handle and use tools and equipment
- Study electrical theory, blueprint reading, mathematics, and physics
- Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, fixtures, and apparatus
- Follow state and local building codes
- Inspect work completed by other electricians to ensure compliance with code
- Identify electrical hazards and take steps to correct them
- Train new apprentices in the trade
- Keep up with advancements in the field by attending seminars and taking continuing education courses
Apprentice Electrician Job Requirements
An apprentice electrician must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and must complete an electrician apprenticeship program. An apprentice electrician typically works under the supervision of a journeyman or master electrician, and must have completed a certain number of hours of on-the-job training before taking the journeyman electrician exam.
Apprentice Electrician Skills
- Basic understanding of electricity
- How to read and interpret electrical drawings, blueprints and schematics
- How to use various electrical test equipment
- Basic soldering skills
- How to install and terminate various types of electrical cable
- How to install various types of electrical devices and fixtures
- How to troubleshoot basic electrical problems
- Basic wiring skills
- How to work safely with electricity
- Ability to lift heavy objects and climb ladders
- Good hand-eye coordination
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How to become an Apprentice Electrician
There are many ways to become an apprentice electrician. One way is to find an electrical contractor who is willing to take you on as an apprentice. Another way is to go through a registered apprenticeship program.
The first step is to find an electrical contractor who is willing to take you on as an apprentice. This can be done by asking around, searching online, or contacting your local electrical union. Once you have found a potential employer, you will need to fill out an application and pass an interview.
The next step is to go through a registered apprenticeship program. These programs are typically run by unions or trade associations. To find a program in your area, you can search online or contact your local electrical union. Once you have been accepted into a program, you will be required to complete a certain number of hours of on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
After completing an apprenticeship program, you will be able to take the journeyman electrician exam. This exam will test your knowledge of the National Electrical Code and other electrical standards. Once you pass the exam, you will be officially licensed as a journeyman electrician.
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