Category Archives: Electrician Qualifications

Becoming An Electrician Without An Apprenticeship

Before exploring this topic, it is incredibly important to note that it is necessary in some States to have done an apprenticeship if you are to qualify for a journeyman electrician license. Find out from your local licensing department about the laws of your particular State before you start your venture into becoming an electrician.

This is especially important in cases where your aim is to own your own business or to become a Master Electrician, as you will most likely have to prove that you have done an apprenticeship in order for you to be viable for these licenses.

Becoming An Electrician Without An ApprenticeshipApprenticeships can be hard to find, especially in areas where becoming an electrician is a popular job choice. Some schools and technical colleges offer apprenticeships as part and parcel of the formal education you will receive, so it is a good idea to start searching there. You can also find out from local unions whether they offer apprenticeships, or whether they might recommend one. Union apprenticeships are also great ways of finding jobs. Another option is to scour local job listings for any openings at companies in your region. Sometimes, Master Electricians will take on apprentices, so be sure to ask around as well.

You can, however, become an electrician without doing an apprenticeship in some States. If you do not want to wait (an apprenticeship can take up to four years to complete, depending on whether you have decided to specialize or not) and would like to jump right in, the following information might help you.

What Education Is Needed To Become An Electrician?

To become a certified electrician in America, you need to have a high school diploma or General Equivalent. This is absolutely necessary and non-negotiable, as you will be facing a number of tests and exams on your road to becoming a certified electrician. You will need to have a good understanding of algebra, for one, as this is likely to pop up in tests along the way.

The next educational requirement for becoming a certified electrician, is having graduated from a recognized school for electricians. There are a good many schools to choose from. Some focus on one field, while others allow you to gain a general knowledge of a number of fields. Find one that suits you. You can talk to electricians in your area to find out which schools they would recommend, or ask your local union for advice. There are even a number of online options, but make sure that the licensing department recognizes the institution before enrolling.

In most States, you will have to have completed an apprenticeship as part of practical training, so be sure to find out whether your State requires this.

Is Schooling Required To Become An Electrician?

Absolutely. American law dictates that you need to have graduated from an electrician school for you to be issued a license to work unsupervised as an electrician. Unfortunately, this is non-negotiable. But it is both to your benefit and those around you. You will be better able to find a proper job with a valid qualification, and your future clients will be sure to receive the best service possible.

How Many Years Does It Take To Complete Electrician Schooling?

This depends entirely on whether you have decided to specialize in a certain field or not. Your decision of doing an apprenticeship at your school can also add to the amount of time it will take.

In general, it can take anything from 6 to 18 months to complete a course at your electrician school. If you have decided to further your education and specialize in something like machinery, or even a sector such as coal mining, this could take longer.

After you have completed your course, you will need to take an exam at your local licensing department in order for you to operate as a valid electrician. The exam mostly consists of testing your knowledge of the National Electrical Code, as well as your State’s codes and regulations regarding electrical work. You will need to find out what the local testing schedule is.

By taking everything into account, you should be a certified electrician within two years’ time, if you have opted not to do an apprenticeship.

Once again, it is entirely possible to become an electrician without doing an apprenticeship. But be sure to check what the State laws are pertaining to this. Should you like to open your own business later on, your lack of an apprenticeship might count against you when you apply for a business license.

Also, if you should decide to move and work outside of your own State, you might find it more difficult to find a job with major companies without having a recognized apprenticeship on your résumé.

Weigh your options carefully and try to decide early on what your future goals as an electrician might be. You might not need an apprenticeship after all.

How To Become An Electrician Helper – our easy to follow guide

The electrician job market has seen a massive influx of opportunities in the last few years, and this is only projected to increase in the coming years. America is decreasing its carbon footprint, and businesses and individuals alike are looking for greener ways of using electricity. Electricians are flooded with work, installing new economic wiring systems and solar-energy contraptions.

Right now, new construction projects are springing up all over the United States as the country is becoming more economically stable.

How To Become An Electrician HelperIf you are thinking of becoming an electrician’s helper, now is the perfect time to do it. As an electrician’s helper (or apprentice), you will be doing anything and everything that the journeyman electrician requires of you. You will be learning new skills on the job and facing a variety of common problems. Should you apply for a journeyman electrician license later on, the hours you have put in as a helper will benefit you in your application process. Becoming an electrician helper is definitely an important step toward becoming a licensed journeyman electrician.

But where do you start? To help you on your way, here are a few answers to your most pressing questions.

How To Become A Helper For An Electrician Journeyman

First of all, you will need to obtain a high school diploma or General Equivalent. This is absolutely necessary, as you will be required to take an algebra and comprehension test when applying for a formal apprenticeship.

Once you have your diploma, start searching for a position as an electrician helper. As it is a paid position, you are likely to find job openings posted in your local classifieds. You can also ask around to find out if any Master Electricians in your area are taking on helpers.

Keep an eye on the websites of major electrical companies. Every so often, they take on scores of helpers at one time. If you would like to apply for such a position, you will need to have a decent résumé typed out, and you would most likely have to go for an interview.

You can also find out from local unions whether they know of any reputable apprenticeship programs. Oftentimes the unions themselves offer apprenticeships that later lead to jobs.

It is also a very good idea to check whether your local electrician school offers apprenticeships. If you would like to become a fully licensed electrician later on, you will need to complete formal studies anyway, so why not combine the two experiences?

How To Be A Successful Helper

Once you have locked down an apprenticeship/helper position, it is essential that you take it seriously.

Be inquisitive. Ask a lot of questions, as this will be your practical training. Don’t be afraid to make notes and check your theories with your Master Electrician.

Listen carefully. Once you have obtained a license, you will need to stand on your own two feet and handle everything on your own.

Take responsibility. Always be on time and on point. If the company you are working for has a dress code, stick to it. Keep to the safety regulations. If you make a mistake, own up to it and learn from it – this will only benefit you in the long run when you need reference letters from your Master Electrician.

See every task as an opportunity to learn. Relish your time as an apprentice and be sure to learn as much as you possibly can. Your enthusiasm and passion will be recognized and rewarded.

How Much Does An Electrician’s Helper Earn?

This is entirely dependent on the level of the helper (whether he is a first-year, second-year etc.), the base hourly rate of the company you are working for, whether you are working in a specialized field, and in what State you are in.

As your experience as a helper grows, so will your salary. It’s a slow and steady race. Experience pays.

Your salary will often be calculated according to a percentage of the Master Electrician’s hourly rate. You will be earning less than him, but the rate will be fair on all accounts.

If you are working as a general electrician’s helper, you may be earning less than someone who is more specialized. The different fields and sectors vary greatly. Be sure to find a field that you are passionate about first and foremost, though, as this will ensure your happiness as well.

The pay rates of different States vary greatly. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest paying State for electricians is Alaska, followed closely by New York. Find out what the Average salary of an electrician helper is for your States, so you can better calculate your potential earnings.

The above mentioned all needs to be taken into account. However, the average hourly rates for first-year helpers across America is reported to be anything between $12.00 to $23.00 per hour.

Becoming an electrician’s helper is the first step toward becoming a certified electrician. Grab the opportunity with both hands!

How To Become An Electrician In New Jersey

There is an increase in demand for skilled electricians around the globe at the moment. The construction world is finally regrouping after the economic meltdown of 2009 and new projects are popping up left right and centre. With new building projects come new opportunities for electricians to find stable contract work.

Together with this, America is going greener. Companies are exploring more sustainable ways of harnessing energy, and electricians are being called in to install new wiring systems, solar panels etc. Private homeowners are also calling in electricians to help them make their homes more environmentally friendly.

New Jersey is seeing similar trends at the moment, and job opportunities for electricians are only projected to grow in number in the coming years. Now is a great time to become an electrician in New Jersey. If you are technically apt, like solving problems and enjoy serving people, this could be the perfect career for you. If you are looking into becoming an electrician, here are a few things you might want to know.

How To Become A Journeyman Electrician in New Jersey

The first thing you need to do on your road to becoming a journeyman electrician in New Jersey, is to obtain a high school diploma. You can also opt for a General Equivalent. This is essential and will benefit you later on during the process of becoming an electrician, especially at the licensing stage.

How To Become An Electrician In New JerseyNext, you need to find a trade school that offers courses in an area that you are passionate about. You need to decide whether you want to become a general electrician, or whether you want to go into a specific field. The number of schools out there is immense. There are even a few on the internet. Be careful, though, and be sure to check with the New Jersey Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors whether your school is recognized by the Board.

Along with your studies, you would ideally need to complete an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is an important part of your practical training, and it is also where you will rack up the supervised working hours you will need to qualify for a license. An apprenticeship gives you the chance to ask questions and gain experience in handling the most commonly found field problems. You will also be earning money as an apprentice, so keep this in mind.

How To Become A Licensed Electrician In New Jersey

After completing your apprenticeship and graduating from your chosen course, you need to apply for a journeyman electrician license. According to New Jersey law, you need around 8 000 supervised hours to be eligible for a license, which you will accumulate during your apprenticeship. It is also stated that 4 000 of these hours need to have been obtained within five years preceding your date of application. In addition, you will have to prove that you have amassed a minimum of 576 hours in a classroom to qualify for your license.

When handing in your application for a license, you will have to prove all these things, as well as the fact that you have a high school diploma or GED.

You will need to pay a fee, and to take a test based on the National Electrical Code, as well as the New Jersey codes. The test will be assessed by the New Jersey Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors. Only after you have passed this will you be issued a journeyman electrician license.

You need to remember that you will now be responsible for keeping your license. Adhere to the National Electrical Code at all times, and cover all you bases when working with clients. You will also have to renew your license regularly, and you could face a fine if you miss your renewal deadline. Stay on top of these administrative things regarding your position, and you will be able to build a good reputation as a licensed journeyman electrician.

Electrician Certification In New Jersey

The New Jersey Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors can give you advice on the many different electrical licenses you can apply for. Everything from linemen to sign electricians is included. Keep this in mind when you are deciding whether you want to specialize in an area or not. Compare your ideals with the licenses available to help you decide what to study before you start.

The Board handles all things related to electricians in the State, and you can visit their website for extra information on the specific license you would like to apply for. They can also be contacted via telephone or post.

Electrician schools are seeing an influx of students all over the State. Be sure to start your journey toward becoming an electrician in New Jersey as soon as possible, and get a head start on your future competition.

How To Become An Electrician Without An Apprenticeship

An electrician apprenticeship can take up to four years to complete, depending on the field you choose. As this is not always an option for people who want to become an electrician fast, you can consider not doing an apprenticeship at all, and merely focusing on your studies.

It is necessary to note that you will be required to be able to operate fully as a licensed electrician in order for you to keep your license. Often times, when looking for work at major companies after obtaining your license, the company will require you to have done an apprenticeship to be considered for the position. If you choose to open your own business, you will need to list your experience in order to build a clientele, and a lack of an apprenticeship could count against you. Also, in some States, you will have to prove that you have done an apprenticeship in order to qualify for a contractor’s license.

Apprenticeships are sometimes hard to come by, as they also require you to take an extensive test beforehand, focusing on maths. But their value can not be overestimated. During an apprenticeship, you will learn tricks of the trade from masters who have blazed the trail before. You will get to face the most common of field problems with someone by your side to guide and assist you. You will also be earning money as an apprentice, paid hourly and according to your level.

However, if you can’t afford the few extra years, and would like to jump right in, you can obtain an electrician license without doing an apprenticeship. You will still have to have a high school diploma or General Equivalent, and you will still have to study an electrician course at a trade school or college. You will also still have to take an exam to become certified. But if you choose to proceed without an apprenticeship, here are a few answers to your most burning questions.

How Many Years Does It Take To Become An Electrician?

The short answer to this question is five years. This is the general amount of time it takes, if you follow through with an apprenticeship, and you choose to specialize in a specific area.

Without an apprenticeship, you can become an electrician within two years (no specialization). Study courses can range in length, but most take between 6 to 18 months to complete. Now take into account that you will have to take a licensing exam in order to work, so give yourself some extra time to study. The sooner you take your exam, the better, but some States have a testing schedule that you will have to slot into.

Can You Be Too Old To Become An Electrician?

How To Become An Electrician Without An ApprenticeshipThis is relative. You can never be too old to learn a new skill or gain knowledge, so studying a course should not be something to hold you back. It is worthy to mention that being an electrician can be a physically demanding job. Often times you will be clambering up ladders or balancing on scaffolding. You will be handling heavy power tools and even crawling though cramped spaces.

If you are fit, able and mentally bright, you are most definitely not too old to become an electrician.

Become An Electrician Fast

If you already have your high school diploma or GED, the next step to becoming an electrician fast would be to decide what exactly it is that you want to do. Do you want to become a general electrician? Or do you want to specialize in a specific area or even sector, such as machinery or mining?

Once you have decided this, search for the course that will suit your needs. Be focused and determined in your search, so you won’t have to settle or change courses halfway through. Once you have enrolled in a course, give it your all. Study hard, so you won’t have to repeat a subject.

Once you have graduated from your trade school, find out what the requirements are for your local certification exam. Take the test as soon as possible so you can obtain your license and begin to work.

It is possible to become an electrician without doing an apprenticeship, but it is not highly recommended. However, not everyone has the luxury of time. Do your best and achieve high scores to improve your chances of finding a job later on.

Some States do not require you to have done an apprenticeship for you to qualify for a contractor’s license, so you may even be able to still start your own business.

Better yet, talk to electricians in your region to get an idea of what the job scope looks like, and be willing to listen to their advice. If you are willing to work hard, you will be successful regardless.

What Is The Best Way To Become An Electrician? – We show you how

Electricians world-wide are currently seeing an increase in job opportunities, and it is predicted that this influx will only rise in the coming years. It is one of the few sectors that have not only survived the recession, but might actually be better for it. This is due to companies and private residences turning to greener and more energy efficient products and systems. It seems that electricians are busier than ever, installing and maintaining systems, and even assisting in the design of new economic products.

What Is The Best Way To Become An ElectricianThis is the perfect time to jumpstart your career as an electrician, and it is never too late, nor too early to begin. To become an electrician, you will have to follow a range of specified steps. This is in order for you to get a license. However, you will already be earning some money as an apprentice before your officially start to work as a certified electrician.

But how much can you earn as an apprentice, and will it be enough to carry you through your studying years? What are the steps to becoming a licensed electrician, so you can venture out and start your own business? Here is a quick guide.

How Much Does An Electrician Apprentice Earn?

As an apprentice, you will be paid according to an hourly rate for the work you do while being trained. Most people do their apprenticeships while they are also studying, which is a great way to earn money. As you will also have to know how to run your own business as a certified electrician, earning and managing your own income early on in the process will only do you good.

The amount your will be earning is calculated according to the amount of years you have been an apprentice, whether you have chosen to specialize or not, your mentor’s hourly rate, and the region you are working in.

A general apprentice will most likely earn less than someone who is learning to specialize in a specific electrical field, such as commercial apprentices. A second-year apprentice will also earn more than a first-year apprentice, as he/she will have more working experience.

You will be earning a percentage of your mentor’s hourly rate. This percentage differs from region to region, as well as from one area of expertise to another.

The average annual incomes of electricians differ from State to State, so this also needs to be taken into account. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Alaska is ranked as the highest paying State for electricians, and North Carolina is the lowest ranked.

All these factors need to be taken into account when estimating what you will be earning as an electrician apprentice. However, according to the Bureau, it ranges between $12.00 an hour, to $24.00 an hour for a first-year apprentice. This is regarded as rather decent pay, and most students find that they can survive on this. You need to remember that your pay will increase every year as you learn more. An average apprenticeship lasts for about four years.

The Quickest Way To Become An Electrician

There are a number of specified steps that you need to follow in order to become a licensed electrician.

First, you need to obtain a high school diploma, or General Equivalent. This is necessary, as you will be required to write (and pass) an algebra and comprehension test before being accepted into an apprenticeship.

Next, you will have to find a decent college or technical school that suits you. At this point it would be helpful for you to know whether you would like to specialize in a certain field or not, as this will often dictate the type of course you need to take. Don’t be afraid to look at courses outside of your State. There are even a few online courses available.

While studying, it will be helpful if you could complete an apprenticeship at the same time. Apprenticeships are essential to gaining a license later on, so make sure you lock one down as soon as possible (they take approximately four years to complete). Look to local companies, unions, or even the school you are going to attend (some offer apprenticeships as part of their course).

After completing both your studies and your apprenticeship, you will need to write a licensing exam at your local licensing authority. This will require you to learn the laws and codes that are acceptable in your State.

Once you have completed this, you will be a licensed electrician.

Becoming an electrician takes a good amount of discipline and hard work. But if you are tech-savvy, analytical and a great problem-solver, you will find this to be a very rewarding line of work! With all the new inventions and ingenious leaps in the field, there has never been a more exciting time to be an electrician.

Electrician Certification – what you’ll need to succeed

In the United States, there are a number of requirements you need to adhere to in order for you to become a certified electrician. This is absolutely necessary in order for authorities to be able to regulate and govern those who deliver this service. It ensures that your clients receive a lawful and safe service, and that the quality of the work will meet the State’s codes.

It is essential for you to be certified in order for you to operate as an electrician in any American State. If you are currently completing an apprenticeship, or studying to become an electrician, you will deem it necessary in future to apply for such a certification. Even if you are still only deciding on whether you would like to become an electrician, it will do you good to know the basics.

What are the steps you need to follow to become an electrician? What type of certification test can you expect, and what are your options? Herewith a few answers to your most pressing questions.

How To Become An Electrician

To become an electrician, you will need to acquire a high school diploma first. A General Equivalent will also do. This is necessary, as you will be tested on algebra and even comprehension sometime throughout the process of becoming an electrician.

Next, you will need to find an apprenticeship. You can apply for an apprentice position at major electrical companies, or with an electrical union. Technical schools sometimes offer apprenticeships along with their courses, which saves a bit of time. An apprenticeship lasts for about four years, during which time you will also be paid an hourly rate for the work you do. The amount you are paid, as well as the duration of the apprenticeship depends on the area you have chosen (i.e. whether you have chosen to specialize or not).

The next step is to enroll in a technical electrician school or college. Choose an institution that caters to the field you have chosen. If you are not sure whether you would like to specialize yet, choose a school that can give you that option later on. There are many schools to choose from, and even a few online options. Make sure that the school you choose is as widely recognized as possible, as it will increase your chances of finding a job, in more than one State.

After you have completed both your apprenticeship and your studies, you will be ready to take your certification test. Find out from your local licensing authority when the next exam is, and take your test as soon as possible.

Electrician Certification Test Questions

The licensing exam of every State is different. You will need to gain as much information about your upcoming test as possible, so you can plan and study accordingly.

Most States use the National Electrical Code (or NEC) handbook as the main source of study. Clarify with the department beforehand whether you will be allowed to take your handbook into the test with you.

It is important to find out what the format of the exam will be. Some exams may require you to write an essay, while others have a layout similar to a monkey puzzle. This is unique to the individual State.

Most commonly, your test questions will focus on the National Electrical Code, as well as the codes and laws that apply to your State. Make sure you get all the info.

While studying for your exam, make sure you take the material to heart, as you will be operating according to these laws and codes once you are certified. This also means that you can be held accountable if you do not adhere to them, so it is essential that you have a firm understanding of the information.

Electrician Certification Online

There are a number of online institutions where you can study to become an electrician, and so also offer you the chance to take your certification test online. It is important to check that the institution is reputable and widely recognized. Make sure that the certification you obtain from them will be accepted in your State. It would be best to speak with your local authorities, as they would be able to tell you which institutions are accepted in the region.

While online studying and testing may be convenient, there are a lot of scammers out there. Protect yourself and ask around first.

After you have obtained your certification, you will be able to legally work as an electrician in your State. You will be responsible for maintaining your license, however. Pay your license fees on time and adhere to the National Electrical Code, as well as your State’s individual codes and laws.

Remember that this process has been designed to help you. Your certification will go a long way when sourcing new clients, and applying for a contractors license of your own.

How To Become An Electrical Apprentice – what you need to know

If you are creative, have an interest in electricity and all things technical, and if you approach problems in an analytical way, you may want to consider a career as an electrician. Electrician job opportunities are on the rise, and are said to experience even further growth in the coming years.

The electrician’s job description is diverse, and includes the installation and maintenance of electrical wiring systems. He/she also needs to be able to diagnose problems, maintain safety standards and have a good understanding of the various codes that apply to operating as an electrician in their respective State.

The process of becoming an electrician is divided into steps, and they must be followed for you to be certified.

First you will have to obtain a high school diploma, or General Equivalent. You will then need to enroll at a good technical college. There are many to choose from (even some online ones), but make sure that the institution is widely recognized in more than one State, as it will improve your chances of finding a job later on.

Together with your studies, you will have to get practical experience in the form of an apprenticeship, where you will be trained by an experienced mentor to handle any and all problems that you might face in the field one day.

Most pupils choose to complete their apprenticeships while they study, as the apprenticeship can take about four years to complete. You will also be paid for your apprentice work, at an hourly rate determined by your level of training, as well as your mentor’s rate.

But how difficult is it to find an apprenticeship program? Where do you start? Herewith a few answers to your most pressing questions.

How Hard Is It To Get An Electrician Apprenticeship?

There are so many apprenticeship programs out there, that you are sure to find one to suit you. However, you will need to put in a bit of work.

You will need to do research on the various programs that are available in your area. If you are looking to specialize, you will need to find an apprenticeship that will suit those needs exactly. Some schools and technical colleges offer apprenticeships as part of your course, which is incredibly helpful. If you are lucky enough to be accepted in a school such as this, you will be well on your way.

It can be quite daunting, finding an apprenticeship, especially if you are trying to find one with a company. There are many options, but you will have to diligently seek them out and apply to as many as possible. Do your part and apply to various programs, don’t just rely on one working out. Once you have pinned down an apprenticeship, you will be happy that you put in the effort, so keep going.

How To Get An Electrician Apprenticeship

Check with the college you will be enrolling at whether they offer apprenticeships as part of your course. This will make things a lot easier for you.

If not, keep your eyes on the classifieds and ask around. A few unions also offer apprenticeships, which could later lead to jobs within the union. Research these and make sure you speak to a certified electrician beforehand, as he can give you an idea of the union’s scope.

Your other option is to apply for an apprenticeship position with a Master Electrician, or electrical company. For this, you will need a proper CV and be able to motivate your reasons for wanting to come on board. There are many electricians taking on apprentices, but finding a position at a large company is somewhat more difficult.

How To Become An Electrical Lineman Apprentice

Electrical linemen follow the same path to apprenticeships as other electricians. But, more often than not, you will be required to write a math test as part of your application to become an apprentice. There are a number of dedicated apprenticeship programs focused solely on linemen, so take your time to find one near you.

Make sure to apply to more than one institution, and also check local job listings. Electrical lineman apprenticeships are also paid, so they are often advertized in the local job sections.

The apprenticeship is an essential part of becoming an electrician. You will not be able to gain a license without having completed one. The experience is very rewarding, though, as you get to face common problems first hand over the course of four years – with a mentor by your side to guide you at all times. The process is invaluable, and certified electricians often choose to give back from their experience by taking on apprentices themselves later on.

Take your time to research the various apprenticeship opportunities available to you, and don’t be afraid to ask around. You are sure to find the right program for you.