If you’re wondering what a residential electrician does, this article will explain the Job duties, salary, education required, and job outlook for this occupation. In addition, you’ll learn the best way to make your home a comfortable place to live. Interested? Start now! Here’s what you need to know! Become a residential electrician
Job duties
The job duties of a residential electrician can vary, but they all involve installing electrical systems in homes. This electrician must follow all applicable municipal codes and install wiring-protection measures. They must also have a working knowledge of blueprints to ensure the safety of the entire installation. The job is not only rewarding, but also requires advanced knowledge of electrical tools. Listed below are some of the most common duties of a residential electrician.
The first step in becoming an electrician is getting an education. A degree in electrical engineering or a related field is a plus. Obtaining an electrical license is necessary for employment. Electrical system technicians need to know about building codes and the National Electric Code (NEC) to practice in the field. They are responsible for keeping themselves and their clients informed of changes or revisions to these codes. A residential electrician will also need to know how to use hand power tools to perform their tasks.
Salary
The U.S. Department of Labor publishes salary data for electricians nationwide, including the average annual salary of $54,000. However, the salary ranges for electricians are more varied. Many states have lower electrician salaries than others, including the South. This is due in large part to anti-union policies. However, one can always increase their income by switching specializations, or even working from home. In either case, the salary ranges will depend on experience and location.
As a result, it can be difficult to find qualified employees in the field, and electricians often worry about leaving their jobs. However, one trade company owner and podcast host Tommy Mello is working to change this. He is building a solid company foundation by requiring high standards of all his employees, and is offering a $1,500 referral bonus for any electrician that refers one to them. In fact, he has a staff of more than 50 electricians.
Education required
A residential electrician is a highly-trained technician who installs and maintains electrical systems in residential homes. This job requires years of hands-on experience and classroom training to ensure that all electrical systems are functioning properly and are not a safety hazard. Demand for residential electricians is expected to grow over the next few years, especially as the popularity of solar power grows. Here are the education requirements for becoming a residential electrician.
A degree in electrical engineering is the minimum requirement for a career as a residential electrician. However, you can also earn an associate’s degree in residential electrical work through a vocational or technical school. You can earn an associate’s degree in residential electrical work in less than seven months through an online program. Coursework includes Electrical Fundamentals and Reading Electrical Blueprints, which covers basic electrical concepts. This information is essential for planning installation projects.
Job outlook
With the Great Recession behind us, the construction industry is experiencing a revival. New construction projects are back on the rise, but many specialty trade workers were not. A recent disease called COVID-19 has accelerated retirement timelines across all industries, so it may have pushed some electricians into early retirement. This good news, however, does not mean that electricians should give up on their career. Rather, a career in this field will have a very positive job outlook.
As construction projects continue to rise, the need for electricians will remain strong. With a skilled labor shortage, there will be opportunities for more people to enter the field. Residential electricians will see an increase in demand because of the increasing number of homes. However, the number of electrical jobs will continue to grow, so this field isn’t in a crisis. Until 2030, the U.S. population will grow by about 2 million.
