Duties and responsibilities
Helper electricians perform electrical jobs that require less skill (e.g., using, supplying or holding tools or materials and cleaning work areas and equipment). They may work on residential buildings or commercial buildings under the supervision of a journey man or master electrician. Their typical duties and responsibilities include:
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- Measuring, cutting and bending wire and conduit,
- Tracing out short circuits in wiring
- Stripping insulation from wire ends
- Attaching wires to terminals for subsequent soldering
- Examining electrical units for loose connections and then tightening these connections
- Constructing controllers and panels, using power drills, drill presses, taps, saws, and punches
Qualifications
To become a helper of electricians, you will need a high school diploma. Classes in mathematics, blueprint reading and other vocational subjects may be helpful.
Skills and relevant work experience
In order to have the best possible employment opportunities, aspiring helper electricians should aim to get as much experience in the construction industry. Helper electricians also need skills such as:
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- Physical fitness and stamina, as electrician–helpers will have to carry heavy materials and will have to kneel down for long periods of time
- Detail orientation, as electrician–helpers need to follow blueprints and ensure they wire things up correctly
- Communication skills, as helper–electricians need to be able to communicate with electricians
- Team work skills, as helper–electricians need to work closely with other electricians and follow their instructions
- Dexterity, as helper–electricians need to be able to wire things together carefully and accurately
Hours
Helper–electricians tend to work full time and they may work overtime to meet deadlines. They may also have to work evenings and weekends to meet the needs of the client.
Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for helpers — electricians was $32,830 in May 2019. Out of all construction helper trades, the lowest 10 percent earned less than $24,420, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $64,100 per year.
Progression
Through experience and training, electrician–helpers can advance into positions that involve more complex tasks. For example, they may decide to enrol in an electrician apprenticeship and become a licensed electrician.