What does an Electrician Apprentice do?
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An electrician apprentice is someone who is learning the trade of being an electrician. They will often work under the supervision of a journeyman or master electrician, and will learn how to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems.
Electrician Apprentice job duties include:
- Read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, and electrical code specifications to determine layout of industrial electrical equipment installations.
- Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, fixtures, and equipment.
- Connect wires to circuit breakers, transformers, or other components.
- Inspect electrical systems, equipment, and components to identify hazards, defects, and the need for adjustment or repair.
- Test electrical systems and components using testing devices such as ohmmeters, voltmeters, and oscilloscopes, to ensure compatibility and safety of system.
- Plan layout and installation of electrical wiring, equipment, or fixtures, based on job specifications and local codes.
- Use a variety of tools or equipment such as power construction equipment, measuring devices, power tools, and testing equipment including oscilloscopes, ammeters, or test lamps.
- Perform physically demanding tasks such as digging trenches to lay conduit or climbing ladders or scaffolding.
- May supervise or train other workers.
Electrician Apprentice Job Requirements
An electrician apprentice is someone who is learning the trade of electrician under the supervision of a licensed electrician. In order to become an apprentice, you must have a high school diploma or GED. Some apprenticeship programs may require you to take some college courses related to electrical work, but most of your training will be done on the job. Once you complete your apprenticeship, you will be able to take the journeyman electrician exam and become a licensed electrician.
Electrician Apprentice Skills
- Wiring
- Electrical systems
- Troubleshooting
- Installation
- Maintenance
- Repair
- Tools
- Equipment
- Safety
- Regulations
- Standards
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How to become an Electrician Apprentice
There are a few things you need to do if you want to become an electrician apprentice. First, you will need to find an apprenticeship program. Many of these are offered by unions, but there are also non-union programs. You can search for apprenticeship programs online or through your local Chamber of Commerce.
Once you have found a program, you will need to apply and be accepted into the program. The application process will vary depending on the program, but you will likely need to submit transcripts, take a aptitude test, and/or go through an interview process.
Once you have been accepted into an apprenticeship program, you will need to complete the required coursework and on-the-job training. The length of the program will vary depending on the program, but it is typically between three and five years. Upon completion of the program, you will receive a journeyman electrician license.
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