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Journey Electrician

💰 $35 - $60 / hour

Skilled TradesConstructionMaintenanceIndustrial

🎯 Role Definition

As a Journey Electrician, you are the backbone of our operations, ensuring the safety, reliability, and efficiency of all electrical systems. This role demands a master craftsperson with a deep understanding of electrical principles, a commitment to safety, and the ability to work independently or as part of a high-performing team. You will be tasked with complex problem-solving, from initial installation and system layout based on intricate blueprints to diagnosing and resolving critical electrical failures. Your expertise will be vital in maintaining operational continuity, preventing downtime, and upholding the highest standards of quality and compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC).

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Electrical Apprentice (Post-Completion)
  • Electrician's Helper
  • Maintenance Technician with a strong electrical focus

Advancement To:

  • Master Electrician
  • Electrical Foreman / Site Supervisor
  • Project Manager (Electrical)
  • Estimator

Lateral Moves:

  • Controls & Instrumentation Technician
  • Facilities Maintenance Manager
  • Safety Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Execute the full lifecycle of electrical installations, including power distribution, lighting systems, motor controls, and low-voltage applications, ensuring strict adherence to blueprints and project specifications.
  • Systematically diagnose and troubleshoot complex malfunctions in electrical and electronic systems, utilizing advanced testing devices like multimeters, meggers, and circuit tracers to identify root causes and implement effective repairs.
  • Interpret and work from complex blueprints, schematic diagrams, and technical drawings to plan the layout and installation of electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures with precision.
  • Perform installations of electrical conduit systems, including EMT, IMC, and rigid conduit, demonstrating expert-level skill in bending, threading, and fitting.
  • Expertly pull, terminate, and splice conductors, ensuring secure and reliable connections for a wide range of power, control, and data cables.
  • Install, connect, and maintain essential electrical apparatus such as switchgear, panelboards, transformers, and circuit breakers according to code and manufacturer guidelines.
  • Conduct comprehensive preventative maintenance on electrical systems and components to ensure optimal performance, identify potential issues, and minimize unplanned downtime.
  • Respond swiftly and effectively to emergency service calls to troubleshoot and repair electrical outages or hazardous conditions, often under pressure.
  • Inspect and test electrical systems, equipment, and components to identify hazards, defects, and the need for adjustment or repair, ensuring continuous compliance with safety standards.
  • Install and service sophisticated motor control centers, including variable frequency drives (VFDs) and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), for industrial machinery.
  • Ensure all work performed meets or exceeds the requirements of the National Electrical Code (NEC), state, and local building codes.
  • Implement and strictly adhere to all safety protocols, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, arc flash safety (NFPA 70E), and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Work on a variety of voltage systems, from low-voltage controls and data to 480V/3-phase power distribution systems, demonstrating versatility and a comprehensive skillset.
  • Terminate and test structured cabling systems for data and communication networks, ensuring system integrity and performance.

Secondary Functions

  • Mentor and provide on-the-job training and guidance to apprentices and less experienced team members, fostering a culture of skill development and safety.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed records of all work performed, including materials used, hours logged, and as-built drawings for project closeouts.
  • Collaborate effectively with other trade professionals, such as plumbers, HVAC technicians, and construction crews, to coordinate project activities and avoid conflicts.
  • Advise project managers or facility leadership on the condition of electrical systems and make recommendations for upgrades, replacements, or repairs.
  • Support ad-hoc electrical projects and exploratory work to support facility upgrades or expansions.
  • Participate in pre-construction planning and project meetings to provide expert electrical input and help identify potential challenges.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • NEC Proficiency: Deep, practical knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local electrical codes.
  • Blueprint & Schematic Reading: Ability to read, interpret, and execute work from complex technical drawings and schematics.
  • Conduit Bending & Installation: Mastery of hand and power tools for bending and installing various types of electrical conduit.
  • Troubleshooting & Diagnostics: Advanced ability to systematically identify and resolve complex electrical problems using diagnostic tools.
  • Motor Controls & VFDs: Experience installing and troubleshooting motor controls, starters, and variable frequency drives.
  • Electrical Testing Equipment: Proficient in the use of multimeters, clamp-on ammeters, insulation testers (meggers), and circuit tracers.
    -Lockout/Tagout (LOTO): Expertise in implementing LOTO procedures to ensure worker safety during maintenance and repair.
  • High-Voltage & 3-Phase Systems: Proven experience working safely with systems up to 480V and 600V.

Soft Skills

  • Safety-First Mindset: An unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe work environment for yourself and your team.
  • Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills to diagnose issues and develop effective solutions.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in all aspects of work, from installation to documentation.
  • Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication with team members, supervisors, and clients.
  • Time Management: Ability to manage and prioritize tasks effectively to meet project deadlines.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: Proven ability to work constructively as part of a team and mentor others.
  • Self-Motivation: Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and take ownership of assigned tasks.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Completion of a state-approved Electrical Apprenticeship program.
  • Valid State Journey-level Electrician License.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's Degree in Electrical Technology or a related field.
  • OSHA 30 Certification.
  • NFPA 70E Arc Flash Safety Certification.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Electrical Technology
  • Industrial Maintenance

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 4-10 years of documented post-apprenticeship experience as a journey-level electrician.

Preferred: Significant experience in commercial or industrial environments is highly desirable. Experience as a lead electrician or in a supervisory capacity is a plus.

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