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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Field Electrician

💰 $28 - $55 per hour

Skilled TradesConstructionMaintenanceElectricalIndustrial

🎯 Role Definition

As a Field Electrician, you are the hands-on expert responsible for bringing power and light to our clients' projects. You will work independently and as part of a dynamic team to install, service, and troubleshoot a wide range of electrical systems in commercial, industrial, and residential environments. This role requires a master problem-solver who can read complex blueprints, adhere to strict safety codes (like the NEC), and communicate effectively with clients and team members. You are the face of our company in the field, ensuring every job is completed with precision, safety, and the highest level of quality.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Electrical Apprentice
  • Maintenance Technician with electrical experience
  • Trade School Graduate (Electrical Technology)

Advancement To:

  • Lead Field Electrician / Foreman
  • Master Electrician
  • Electrical Project Manager
  • Electrical Inspector

Lateral Moves:

  • Controls & Instrumentation Technician
  • Electrical Estimator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Install, maintain, and repair electrical control, wiring, and lighting systems across various commercial and industrial environments.
  • Perform comprehensive diagnostics and troubleshooting on complex electrical systems and equipment to identify root causes and resolve issues efficiently.
  • Read and interpret technical diagrams, blueprints, and electrical schematics to determine wiring layouts for new installations and system upgrades.
  • Ensure all electrical work performed strictly complies with National Electrical Code (NEC), state, and local building regulations to guarantee safety and legal compliance.
  • Execute scheduled preventative maintenance programs on electrical systems, panels, and components to minimize downtime and ensure operational longevity.
  • Install and service control panels, distribution boards, transformers, and other critical electrical infrastructure components according to project specifications.
  • Terminate, splice, and connect wires to circuit breakers, transformers, outlets, or other components and fixtures with high precision.
  • Utilize a variety of electrical testing equipment, such as multimeters, voltmeters, and meggers, to test continuity, voltage, and insulation resistance.
  • Manage and execute the installation of electrical conduit systems, including EMT, rigid, and PVC, ensuring proper support, routing, and professional appearance.
  • Respond to emergency service calls to troubleshoot and repair electrical faults and power outages in a timely and professional manner, often outside of normal business hours.
  • Commission new electrical systems and equipment, performing final inspections and functional tests to ensure they are operating correctly and safely before handover.
  • Install, test, and troubleshoot motor controls, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) in industrial settings.
  • Upgrade existing electrical systems and components to improve energy efficiency, increase capacity, and ensure compliance with current codes and standards.
  • Inspect and test low-voltage systems, including fire alarms, security, and data/communication systems, to ensure proper installation and integration.
  • Perform site surveys to assess electrical needs for new projects, provide accurate estimates for labor and materials, and contribute to project planning.

Secondary Functions

  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of all work performed, including materials used, hours logged, and services rendered, utilizing digital work order systems.
  • Collaborate effectively with project managers, general contractors, and other trade professionals to coordinate installation schedules and ensure project milestones are met.
  • Provide exceptional customer service by clearly communicating project status, potential issues, and recommended solutions directly to clients.
  • Uphold and champion strict safety standards on all job sites, including the diligent use of lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures and personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Mentor and provide on-the-job training to apprentice electricians, guiding them on technical best practices, safety protocols, and professional conduct.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Deep understanding and practical application of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local electrical codes.
  • High proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, electrical schematics, and technical manuals.
  • Expertise in using a wide range of electrical diagnostic tools, including multimeters, clamp-on ammeters, and insulation resistance testers.
  • Proven skill in bending, installing, and pulling wire through various types of conduit (EMT, Rigid, PVC).
  • Competency in wiring, terminating, and troubleshooting industrial control panels, motor controls, and VFDs.
  • Knowledge of low-voltage systems, such as fire alarm, security, and data/communication cabling.
  • Mastery of safe work practices, including lockout/tagout (LOTO), arc flash safety (NFPA 70E), and general OSHA standards.
  • Ability to terminate conductors of all sizes and types to industry standards.

Soft Skills

  • Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills for effective troubleshooting and problem-solving.
  • Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills for clear interaction with clients, colleagues, and other trades.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and demonstrate strong personal accountability.
  • Meticulous attention to detail to ensure quality, safety, and code compliance in all work.
  • A customer-first mindset with a professional, courteous, and solution-oriented demeanor.
  • Robust time management and organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively on a dynamic job site.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Completion of a registered Electrical Apprenticeship program or equivalent on-the-job training.

Preferred Education:

  • State-issued Journeyman Electrician License or certification.
  • Associate's Degree in Electrical Technology or a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Electrical Technology
  • Industrial Maintenance

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3-5+ years of experience as a licensed Journeyman Electrician in commercial or industrial settings.

Preferred:

  • Experience working in a field service role with direct client interaction.
  • Experience with high-voltage systems, generators, and transfer switches.
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
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