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.
Next, 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 8Â 000 supervised hours to be eligible for a license, which you will accumulate during your apprenticeship. It is also stated that 4Â 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.
