How to become a journeyman electrician: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you intrigued by the world of electrical work and considering a career as a journeyman electrician? The demand for skilled and qualified electricians is on the rise with an increasing reliance on electricity in our everyday lives.

This guide will break down the process to becoming a journeyman electrician, covering everything from education requirements to certification processes.

Key Takeaways

• A journeyman electrician fixes and installs electrical systems, working under the supervision of a master electrician and helping teach apprentices.
• To become a journeyman electrician, you need a high school diploma or equivalent and complete pre-apprenticeship training at a trade school or vocational college.
• After completing pre – apprenticeship training, individuals can apply for an apprenticeship program through organizations like IBEW, NECA, or IEC.
• Completing an apprenticeship program typically takes around four years and provides hands-on training and classroom instruction.

 

Understanding the Role of a Journeyman Electrician

A journeyman electrician has many jobs. They fix and put in electrical systems in homes, offices, and other places. They use tools that are special for their job. Their tasks could include checking if a system works well or finding problems it might have.

A master electrician can tell them what to do.

They also help to teach new workers who are called apprentices. The journeyman electrician spends four to five years learning their job before they get a license. This time includes both class training and real work training.

Education and Training Requirements

To become a Journeyman Electrician, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent and complete pre-apprenticeship training at a trade school or vocational college.

High School Diploma or Equivalent

A high school diploma or GED is step one in your journey to become an electrician. This is a must for all who want to enter the electrical trade. High school classes like algebra, English, and physics can help you get ready.

They teach the basics of wiring and electricity flow. Learning about these in school gives a head start when you apply for an apprenticeship later on.

In some cases, getting your hands dirty early can be good too. Some high schools offer shop classes or basic electrical courses where you can learn practical skills. By doing simple tasks like reading construction blueprints or working with lighting fixtures, you gain hands-on experience that will prove useful in your future job as an electrician helper.

Pre-apprenticeship Training at a Trade School or Vocational College

You can start your journey to become a journeyman electrician at a trade school or vocational college. This is the place where you will learn about electrical systems, wiring, and safety.

You will also gain hands-on experience in this field. Taking pre-apprenticeship training here may help you land an apprenticeship program faster. It shows that you are serious about learning the electrical trade.

So, make sure to pick a good school with great teachers and tools for learning.

Getting into an Apprenticeship Program

To enter an apprenticeship program, individuals interested in becoming journeyman electricians should complete the application process and demonstrate their passion for the trade.

How to Apply for an Apprenticeship

Get ready to become an electrician trainee. Start by getting a high school diploma or GED. You will also need proofs of your age and U.S. citizenship.

The Role of an Electrician Trainee or Apprentice

Electrician trainees or apprentices play an important role in learning the skills and knowledge needed to become a journeyman electrician. They work under the supervision of experienced electricians, assisting with various tasks such as installing electrical systems, troubleshooting issues, and reading blueprints.

Trainees also learn about safety procedures and regulations to ensure that work is done safely. Through on-the-job training and classroom instruction, they develop hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge necessary for their future career as electricians.

It’s important for trainees to gain practical experience by working on real projects alongside seasoned professionals. By actively participating in their apprenticeship program, trainees build a strong foundation that prepares them for success as they progress towards becoming licensed journeymen electricians.

Completing the Apprenticeship Program

Completing an apprenticeship program is a crucial step in becoming a journeyman electrician. This program typically lasts around four years and provides hands-on training and classroom instruction.

Apprentices learn important skills such as reading construction blueprints, understanding electrical code requirements, wiring techniques, and testing and inspecting electrical systems.

Throughout the program, apprentices work under the guidance of experienced electricians to gain practical experience in different aspects of the trade.

To find an apprenticeship program, aspiring electricians can look to organizations like the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), or Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC).

Some programs may require applicants to pass an aptitude test that includes math and reading comprehension. It’s worth noting that local trade unions often prioritize offering apprenticeships to women and minorities as part of their efforts to promote diversity in the field.

During the apprenticeship program, it’s essential for aspiring electricians to demonstrate dedication, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn from experienced professionals.

By successfully completing this program, individuals will be well-prepared with the knowledge and practical skills needed to become fully qualified journeyman electricians.

Licensing and Certification

To become a journeyman electrician, you will need to obtain the necessary licensing and certification. Find out the specific requirements in your state and how to navigate the process.

State and/or Municipality Licensing Requirements

To become a journeyman electrician, you need to meet certain licensing requirements set by the state or municipality where you want to work. Here are some important facts to know about these requirements:

 

• Each jurisdiction has its own specific licensing requirements for electricians.
• Licensing may include passing a written exam that tests your knowledge of electrical codes and regulations.
• You may also need to complete a certain number of work hours as an apprentice or trainee.
• Some jurisdictions may require you to provide proof of completing a certain number of classroom hours in electrical training.
• Many states and municipalities have reciprocity agreements, which means that if you are licensed in one jurisdiction, you can apply for a license in another without having to go through the entire application process again.

 

How to Get Licensed or Certified

To become a licensed or certified journeyman electrician, you need to follow these steps:

 

1. Complete the required education and training: This includes obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent and completing pre-apprenticeship training at a trade school or vocational college.
2. Apply for an apprenticeship program: You can apply for apprenticeship programs through various organizations such as trade unions, electrical contractors, or vocational schools. These programs provide on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
3. Complete the apprenticeship program: During the program, you will gain hands-on experience working alongside experienced electricians while also attending classes to learn about electrical systems and safety.
4. Pass the licensing exam: After completing the apprenticeship program, you need to pass a licensing exam administered by your state or municipality. This exam tests your knowledge of electrical codes, regulations, and best practices.
5. Renew your license regularly: Once you obtain your journeyman electrician license, you will typically need to renew it every few years by completing continuing education courses.

• In Washington state, individuals must first become an electrical trainee before applying for an apprenticeship program.
• Electricians in Washington must complete an electrical apprentice program approved by the state starting from July 2023.
• Journeyman electricians in Washington must renew their license every three years and complete 24 hours of continuing education.
• Individuals with at least four years of experience as a journeyman electrician in Washington can apply for a master electrician or electrical administrator license.

 

Advancing Your Career as a Journeyman Electrician

After becoming a journeyman electrician, there are several ways to advance your career. One option is to gain more experience and expertise in specific areas of electrical work, such as commercial or industrial projects.

By specializing in a niche field, you can become an expert in that area and increase your job prospects. Another way to advance is by pursuing additional certifications or licenses.

These credentials can demonstrate your advanced skills and knowledge, making you more valuable to employers. Additionally, you may consider taking on leadership roles within your company or joining professional organizations that provide networking opportunities and industry resources.

Overall, advancing as a journeyman electrician involves continuous learning, gaining experience, and seeking new opportunities for growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements to become an electrician?

How Long Does It Take to Become an Electrician?

Becoming an electrician typically takes four to five years of apprenticeship training. During this time, aspiring electricians gain hands-on experience and complete online and classroom courses.

Pre-apprenticeship training at a trade school or vocational college can help establish a strong foundation. It’s important to note that algebra and trigonometry are important subjects for electricians, as they are used in measuring wiring lengths and calculating electrical currents.

Physics and English are also beneficial subjects for better understanding technical documents and scientific concepts.

What Education Do You Need to Become an Electrician?

To become an electrician, you need a high school diploma or equivalent. It’s also helpful to have some vocational training or pre-apprenticeship training at a trade school or vocational college.

This will give you the basic knowledge and skills needed for the job. While formal education is important, hands-on experience is equally valuable in this field. The more practical experience you gain through apprenticeships and on-the-job training, the better prepared you’ll be for a career as an electrician.

Additionally, continuing education courses may be required to keep up with advancements in electrical systems and technologies.

How Do You Get an Electrician’s License?

To get an electrician’s license, there are certain requirements you need to meet. First, you must complete the necessary education and training, including a high school diploma or equivalent.

Next, you’ll need to apply for and complete an apprenticeship program where you will gain valuable on-the-job experience under the guidance of experienced electricians. Once your apprenticeship is completed, you’ll have to pass a licensing exam administered by the state or municipality where you plan to work as an electrician.

This exam will test your knowledge of electrical systems and safety practices. By meeting these requirements, you can obtain your electrician’s license and begin working as a journeyman electrician.

How Hard Is It to Become an Electrician?

Becoming an electrician requires dedication and hard work, but it is achievable with the right training and determination. It involves completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by pre-apprenticeship training at a trade school or vocational college.

Getting into an apprenticeship program is the next step, which may require applying and going through a selection process. During the apprenticeship, you will gain valuable on-the-job experience while receiving classroom instruction.

After completing the apprenticeship, you will need to obtain state and/or municipality licensing by passing licensure exams. While it may be challenging at times, with commitment and perseverance, you can become a skilled journeyman electrician.

How Much Does It Cost to Become an Electrician?

Becoming an electrician can require some financial investment. The cost will vary depending on factors such as the type of training program, location, and any additional certifications you pursue.

Vocational colleges or trade schools can offer programs ranging from several hundred to a few thousand dollars. Apprenticeship programs typically have lower costs since they involve on-the-job training with paid work experience.

Additionally, there may be fees associated with licensing exams and obtaining necessary tools and equipment for the job. It’s important to research different options and consider any financial assistance or scholarships that may be available to help offset these costs.

What Is a Typical Electrician Salary?

A typical electrician salary in the United States ranges from $37,000 to $81,000 per year. This income can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and specialty within the electrical trade.

Electricians who have completed their journeyman training and have several years of experience can generally expect higher salaries than those just starting out. It’s also important to note that some electricians may earn additional income through overtime or by taking on specialized projects.

Overall, becoming an electrician can offer a stable career with competitive earning potential.

Benefits of Becoming a Licensed Electrician

Becoming a licensed electrician offers several benefits. First, it provides job security and a competitive advantage in the electrical field. With a license, you have increased earning potential and can pursue higher-paying opportunities.

Having a trade license also shows that you have experience and skill in the industry, giving you more credibility with employers and clients.

Additionally, being a licensed electrician allows you to operate your own business as an electrical contractor. This means you can bid on public and government projects, obtain commercial insurance, and take on larger-scale jobs.

It opens up new possibilities for career growth and financial success.

Moreover, licensed electricians often start as apprentices at lower wages but can earn pay raises as they gain more skills and expertise. The national growth rate for electricians is predicted to be 7% from 2021 to 2031, meaning there will be ample job opportunities in this field.

Overall, becoming a licensed electrician not only provides stability but also the potential for higher income and professional advancement. It’s an investment in your future that pays off both financially and personally.

Journeyman Electrician License Requirements

To become a licensed journeyman electrician, you need to meet certain requirements:

 

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Complete an apprenticeship program, which typically lasts around four years.
• Accumulate the required amount of on-the-job training hours, usually around 8,000 hours.
• Attend and pass the necessary classroom training and courses.
• Pass a licensing exam to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in electrical work.

 

The Journey to Becoming a Journeyman

Becoming a journeyman electrician requires meeting specific requirements for licensing, gaining on-the-job experience, and successfully completing an apprenticeship program.

Requirements for Journeyman Licensing

To become a journeyman electrician, you need to meet certain requirements. Here are the key requirements for journeyman licensing:

 

1. Education: You must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
2. Training: Completion of an approved electrician apprenticeship program is required. This program typically involves both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
3. Work experience: Most states require a specific number of hours of supervised work experience as an electrician apprentice.
4. Licensing exam: You need to pass a licensing exam administered by your state or local licensing authority. The exam usually consists of a practical examination and a written test.
5. Knowledge of electrical codes: You must be familiar with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and other relevant electrical codes and regulations.
6. Safety training: It’s important to have knowledge and training in electrical safety practices and procedures.
7. Background check: Some states may require applicants to undergo a background check before granting a journeyman license.

 

Working as a Journeyman: What to Expect

As a journeyman electrician, you can expect to have hands-on experience installing, inspecting, and managing electrical systems in homes and businesses. You may specialize as an outside wireman or inside wireman, depending on your skills and preferences.

Outside wiremen work on power lines that connect power generation to the power meter, often requiring work on poles and towers. Inside wiremen focus on maintaining electrical systems within buildings.

This field offers various opportunities like industrial wiring, factory wiring, and working with data, alarm, and telecom systems. Journeyman electricians also have the chance to advance their careers by becoming master electricians through further licensure.

Beyond Working as a Journeyman: Taking the Next Step

After gaining experience and becoming a journeyman electrician, there are opportunities for advancement in the field. Some electricians choose to pursue additional certifications or licenses to specialize in specific areas such as solar energy or wind turbine technology.

Others may decide to become electrical contractors and start their own businesses. With further education and training, journeyman electricians can also become master electricians, taking on more complex projects and supervising other electricians.

The average income range for journeyman electricians is between $37K and $81K per year, depending on factors like location and experience.

Conclusion

Becoming a journeyman electrician takes dedication and hard work. By completing the necessary education and training requirements, getting into an apprenticeship program, and obtaining the required licensing and certification, you can embark on a rewarding career in the electrical trade.

Remember, with determination and hands-on experience, you can achieve your goal of becoming a skilled journeyman electrician. So don’t wait any longer—start your journey today!