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What Types of Electricians Are There?
An electrician is a skilled tradesperson working in the construction industry who specializes in the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of power systems - and the need for these skilled workers is only growing in the US.
In fact, the expected growth of electrical workers is 10% by 2028.
Electricians work in a wide range of professional sectors like residential, office building maintenance, as well as commercial/industrial and residential construction.
This article will give you an in depth understanding of the different types of electricians:
Types of electricians can be broken down into several broad categories - however, there are two primary categories into which most electricians fall:
Linemen
(Outside Electricians)
Also called line electrical workers, these electricians work outdoors installing electric utility transmission and distribution systems at higher voltages. They ensure the electricity produced at power plants move to substations - and are equipped to manage high-voltage lines across the residential, commercial, and industrial facilities.
Wiremen
(Inside Electricians)
Wiremen are electricians who work with the lower voltages found inside buildings and structures. Wiremen install, maintain, and repair electrical systems that provide residential, commercial, and industrial buildings with reliable power. Residential systems, such as solar panel installation, would fall under this category.
Types of Electricians by Certification Levels
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Apprentice Electrician
The first step to becoming an electrician is going through an apprenticeship program.
This requires a high school diploma (or equivalent) to apply, in most states. Generally, an apprentice would take several hundred classroom hours, before joining a commercial electrician group.
After about three to six years, you can apply for an apprenticeship under a licensed electrician.
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Journeyman Electrician
Once you complete your apprenticeship program, and fulfill all requirements, you can then take the test to become a journeyman electrician where you will receive your license from the local, state, or federal licensing group.
A certification enables you to work without supervision and gives you the credentials to train new apprentices.
3
Master Electrician
Master Electrician is the highest level of electrical certification, with requirements varying from state to state.
The main standard for most states is around 4,000 hours of electric work as a Journeyman, followed by a licensing exam to display in-depth knowledge of the National Electrical Code.
Lastly, Master electricians work on the most complex commercial and industrial projects, and have the experience to train Journeymen electricians to do the same.
What Different Types of Electricians Are There Based on Specialization?
Within the two primary categories of electricians, there are many different electrician fields. Different types of electrician jobs will also require unique skills and certifications. These fields include:
Industrial Electricians
An industrial electrician is tasked with installing, troubleshooting, and repairing electrical equipment within power plants, processing plants, factories, and mines.
These types of electricians work with manufacturing systems and large, complex machinery - with some technicians focusing on security and lighting systems.
As an industrial electrician, you would report to maintenance supervisors or facility managers. In most cases, you are required to have some years of apprenticeship job training under your belt prior to working in this field.
Commercial Electrician
A commercial electrician specializes in installing, repairing. and maintaining electrical systems - with most operating in commercial buildings like offices and other workplaces.
As a commercial electrician, you might also be called upon to assist in designing and planning electrical systems during the construction of new buildings. If you’re the type of person to take on additional challenges, this would be ideal for you - the job frequently includes having to navigate public safety concerns and local electrical codes.
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Residential Electrician
A residential electrician is the most common type of electrician. They are typically responsible for installing, troubleshooting, maintaining, and upgrading electrical systems - this includes equipment in residential settings like homes, apartments, and condominiums.
As a residential electrician, you’ll install and repair security systems, air conditioning units, and other household appliances.
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Maintenance Electrician
Maintenance electricians are a vital part of industrial, commercial, and residential sectors. As a maintenance electrician, you are tasked with maintaining, repairing, and upgrading existing electrical equipment.
Other maintenance responsibilities include testing, troubleshooting, and diagnosing problems with equipment.
To work as a maintenance electrician, you would also need a formal apprenticeship, with on-the-job technical training, followed by an electrician license.
Morgan James, NY
An auto electrician specializes in cars and other automotive vehicles, and are responsible for the electrical systems within these vehicles that are vital for their safe operation.
To be an auto electrician, you would need an in-depth understanding of vehicle diagnostics, allowing the proper inspection of drivetrain systems using performance electronics. Technicians also use these devices for official motor vehicle certification.
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Industrial Electricians
An industrial electrician is tasked with installing, troubleshooting, and repairing electrical equipment within power plants, processing plants, factories, and mines.
These types of electricians work with manufacturing systems and large, complex machinery - with some technicians focusing on security and lighting systems.
As an industrial electrician, you would report to maintenance supervisors or facility managers. In most cases, you are required to have some years of apprenticeship job training under your belt prior to working in this field.
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Commercial Electrician
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