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As a small business owner, you must be aware of the different electricians available. It will help you when choosing the right person for the job. This blog post will outline the four main types of electricians. Keep reading to learn more!
What does a journeyman electrician do?
A journeyman electrician has several years of experience in the field and may work under the supervision of a master electrician.
There’s no degree required for this position. Still, many people pursue an associate’s degree in electrical engineering before beginning their career as a journeyman electrician.
In addition to a solid knowledge of electricity and how it works, a journeyman electrician should be able to solve specific problems on the spot without having to check with anyone else.
Their job includes performing maintenance in commercial buildings and helping to install new equipment when necessary.
Being a journeyman is a great start towards becoming a master or contractor.
What is a master electrician?
A master electrician is someone who has years of experience, as well as an associate’s degree in electrical engineering.
They may work under the supervision of a contractor or be self-employed.
A master electrician is responsible for overseeing all the work done by the journeyman electricians on the job site.
They also need to ensure that everything meets code requirements and is up to safety standards.
In some cases, a master electrician may also be responsible for training new employees.
This position usually requires five or more years of experience as a journeyman electrician.
What does an electrical contractor do?
Their job is to install and maintain electrical systems in residential and commercial buildings.
They may also be responsible for wiring new homes or businesses from scratch.
To become an electrical contractor, you typically need to have a degree in electrical engineering or possess several years of experience as an electrician.
It’s also essential to have a strong knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC).
What does an electrical inspector do?
An electrical inspector typically works for the local government.
Their job is to check out electrical installations – like outlets, switches, and light fixtures – to make sure they meet code requirements.
They may also be responsible for inspecting new construction projects to ensure they’re up to code.
To become an electrical inspector, you typically need a degree in engineering or a related field and several years of experience as a contractor, master electrician, or journeyman electrician.
As a business owner, what does this mean for you?
Being aware of what each electrician can do will help ensure that the project progresses quickly and smoothly.
Journeyman Electricians are ideal for performing regular maintenance tasks such as changing light bulbs and installing new equipment.
Suppose you have more extensive work that needs to be done, such as your office is moving to another location.
In that case, hiring Master Electricians will ensure that the job gets done right.
If you’re working with a construction company, make sure to hire an electrical contractor to handle all of the wiring and installation.
By doing so, you can ensure there’s one point of contact for your project and that everything meets code requirements.
What qualifications should I look for?
The most important qualification is experience and education:
- What type of degree does someone have (if they have a degree)
- What types of jobs have they previously held?
- What kind of certifications do they hold? Etc.
Another vital thing to consider is whether or not the electrician holds any certifications from reputable organizations.
For example, they have a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certificate.
In addition, underwriters Laboratories (UL) will help verify that the electrician is following correct safety practices and code requirements.
How do I find the right electrician?
The first thing you should do is create a list of what needs to be done on the project.
It will make it easier to write up your job description and post it on job aggregator websites such as Craigslist, Monster, CareerBuilder, etc.
When posting your job opening, don’t forget to mention what experience – specifically what years or type of experience – you’re looking for in an electrician.
For example: what types of tasks does this person need to know, and what kind of experience do they need?
If it’s a commercial job, what types of permits and licenses will the electrician need to complete the project?
Once potential candidates apply or contact you with their interest in your job post, make sure to ask what license(s) they hold and what projects they’ve completed.
Also, ask about their previous work experience, what certifications they hold and what is required to obtain these certifications.
Lastly, another essential thing to consider when hiring an electrician is whether or not you’re willing to accept liability if negligence on their part results in injury.
When it comes down to it, asking yourself this one question before hiring an electrician will help you choose the right person for the job.
Conclusion
Each type has specific qualifications and experiences that you should look for when hiring an electrician.
Make sure to ask potential candidates what license(s) they hold and what projects they’ve completed in the past. It will help you make the best decision for your project.
Remember: hiring an electrician is a big decision, so take your time and ask the right questions!
If you would like to know more, contact our trustworthy electrician at Impact Electrical.
