Torchora
Back to Home

Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for an Electrical Mechanic

💰 $28/hr - $45/hr

Skilled TradesMaintenanceManufacturingIndustrialEngineering

🎯 Role Definition

An Electrical Mechanic is a highly skilled, hands-on professional responsible for the operational integrity and safety of all electrical systems and equipment within an industrial or commercial facility. This pivotal role involves installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing complex electrical infrastructure, including machinery, control panels, wiring, and automation components. You will be the front-line expert ensuring that production machinery runs efficiently and safely, minimizing downtime and contributing directly to the organization's productivity and success. This position requires a deep understanding of electrical theory, adherence to safety codes like the NEC, and the ability to diagnose issues under pressure.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Electrical Apprentice / Maintenance Apprentice
  • Industrial Maintenance Technician
  • Certified Electrician (Residential/Commercial)
  • Technical School Graduate (Electromechanical or Electrical Technology)

Advancement To:

  • Lead Electrical Mechanic / Electrical Team Lead
  • Maintenance Supervisor or Manager
  • Controls Engineer or Automation Specialist
  • Reliability Engineer

Lateral Moves:

  • Instrumentation and Controls (I&C) Technician
  • Facilities Maintenance Manager
  • Project Engineer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Diagnose and troubleshoot complex electrical malfunctions in industrial machinery and automated systems using multimeters, oscilloscopes, and other advanced diagnostic equipment.
  • Perform comprehensive installation, preventative maintenance, and corrective repairs on a wide range of electrical systems, including motors, control panels, wiring infrastructure, and facility lighting.
  • Interpret and work from complex electrical blueprints, technical schematics, ladder logic, and wiring diagrams to execute installations, modifications, and repairs with precision.
  • Safely work with low and high voltage systems, including troubleshooting and servicing electrical circuits and equipment operating up to 480V 3-phase.
  • Install, program, and troubleshoot Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and servo drives to optimize machine speed, performance, and energy efficiency.
  • Perform diagnostics, troubleshooting, and basic programming/modifications on Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), primarily Allen-Bradley or Siemens platforms.
  • Execute the efficient repair and replacement of defective components, including motors, drives, sensors, switches, relays, electrical wiring, and fixtures to minimize equipment downtime.
  • Skillfully bend, run, and install various types of electrical conduit (e.g., EMT, Rigid) to protect and route wiring according to National Electrical Code (NEC) and project specifications.
  • Champion a safety-first culture by strictly adhering to all company safety protocols, OSHA regulations, and NFPA 70E standards, including proper execution of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures.
  • Conduct routine and predictive maintenance (e.g., thermal imaging, megger testing) on all critical electrical equipment to ensure operational reliability and prevent unexpected failures.
  • Maintain detailed and accurate records of all maintenance activities, repairs performed, and parts utilized within the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
  • Calibrate and service a variety of electronic instrumentation that controls temperature, pressure, flow, and other process variables.
  • Participate in the installation and commissioning of new production equipment, ensuring all electrical components are installed to code and function as designed.
  • Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in machine reliability, electrical system design, and maintenance processes.
  • Assemble, install, test, and maintain electrical or electronic wiring, equipment, appliances, apparatus, and fixtures, using hand tools and power tools.
  • Respond to emergency breakdown calls in a timely and effective manner to get production machinery back online as quickly and safely as possible.
  • Collaborate with mechanical technicians and engineers on complex repairs and projects that involve both electrical and mechanical systems.
  • Assist in developing and updating preventative maintenance schedules and procedures for all plant electrical equipment.
  • Size and install conductors, overcurrent protection devices, and raceways for new and existing equipment installations.
  • Inspect electrical systems, equipment, and components to identify hazards, defects, and the need for adjustment or repair, and to ensure compliance with codes.

Secondary Functions

  • Manage and maintain an organized inventory of critical electrical spare parts, components, and supplies.
  • Assist mechanical maintenance teams during large-scale equipment overhauls or plant shutdowns.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to apprentices or junior maintenance technicians.
  • Participate in Root Cause Analysis (RCA) activities to identify and eliminate the underlying causes of recurring equipment failures.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • PLC Troubleshooting: Proficiency in diagnosing issues with PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens preferred) and understanding ladder logic.
  • VFD and Motor Control: Strong ability to install, program, and troubleshoot Variable Frequency Drives, servo motors, and complex motor control circuits.
  • Schematic & Blueprint Reading: Expertise in interpreting complex electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic schematics and blueprints.
  • National Electrical Code (NEC): In-depth knowledge of NEC standards for industrial environments.
  • High-Voltage Systems: Experience and proven safety record working with systems up to 480V 3-Phase.
  • Conduit Installation: Skill in bending and installing EMT, rigid, and other types of electrical conduit.
  • CMMS Proficiency: Experience using a Computerized Maintenance Management System to log work and manage assets.
  • Instrumentation & Calibration: Ability to calibrate and troubleshoot various process sensors and instrumentation.
  • Lockout/Tagout (LOTO): Mastery of LOTO procedures and a commitment to electrical safety (NFPA 70E).
  • Diagnostic Tools: Proficient use of multimeters, meggers, oscilloscopes, and thermal imaging cameras.

Soft Skills

  • Problem-Solving: Advanced analytical and troubleshooting skills to diagnose issues under pressure.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in all work to ensure safety and quality.
  • Communication: Ability to clearly communicate technical issues and solutions to operators, managers, and other technicians.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: Works effectively with cross-functional teams to achieve common goals.
  • Self-Motivation: A proactive, self-starting individual who can manage time and priorities effectively with minimal supervision.
  • Adaptability: Flexible and able to adapt to changing priorities and emergency situations.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Completion of a certified electrical apprenticeship program OR a technical certificate in a relevant field.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's Degree in Electrical Technology, Electromechanical Technology, or Industrial Maintenance.
  • State-issued Journeyman or Master Electrician license.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Electrical Technology
  • Industrial Maintenance Technology
  • Electromechanical Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-7 years of hands-on experience as an Electrical Mechanic or Industrial Electrician in a manufacturing, production, or similar industrial environment.

Preferred: Experience in a high-speed manufacturing or packaging environment with significant exposure to automated machinery, robotics, and advanced control systems.

Explore More Careers