Is a Career As an Electrician Right for You

If you're just out of school, fallen victim to the current economy or are just sick of your current job and looking for a new career you may want to consider a career as an electrician. Electricians have one of the most important jobs ensuring that families, schools, cities and businesses are able to keep their lights on, phones working, computers surfing and everyone safe. Without electricity we'd be stuck in the dark ages.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects jobs in the electrical industry to grow at a rate of approximately 12%. In today's economy this is great news. Salaries range from roughly $28,000 to $80,000 plus, depending on experience, location and the industry you're in (such as residential, industrial, systems or infrastructure). With the offer of job growth and a good income it's easy to see why this is a great career for so many people.

Many electricians are also a part of a union, which offer great training and benefits for it's members. While not everyone will be a part of a union, it's another option that electricians have to help them throughout their career.

You can't just declare yourself an electrician though. You have to understand how electricity works in order to stay safe. Electricity can be very dangerous if you don't know what you're doing. You also have to be sure that your work stands the test of time. When someone flips a switch, something has to turn on or off. You'll also need to understand how to read blueprints and local/national codes.

Many states require specific training and courses as well as exams in order to become an electrician. (While your state might not have requirements, your local municipality very well may so be sure to check with them to help you through the process). Don't let the training and exams scare you away though, this is a great career that offers satisfaction and pride in your work. You'll be a part of something bigger than yourself and contribute to the world running.

Electrician courses and apprenticeship programs offer the best education and work experience to move up the ranks in this industry and get you earning the highest income possible as soon as possible. Before you start an electrician course or apprenticeship be sure that this is really what you want to do. It will take a lot of work and dedication but the benefits are worth it if it's what you really want to do.

Starting a Business

Are you planning to start up with an electrical business?

Are you new to the field and unaware of how and where to start to take it through the long run?

In such a situation, it is always the perfect choice to hire a lead electrician who can hold your hand and support in expanding the business and taking it to a greater audience. Apart from skilled and experienced electricians, any reputed electrical company will also require the services of an electrical lead.

It is always beneficial to hire a lead electrician who has years of experience behind him. This is because when you recruit an electrical lead, his duties and responsibilities include supervising the work of junior electricians and other electrical helpers. Apart from overseeing the regular installation, maintenance and repair jobs, the lead also becomes responsible for the inspection of the installed systems to ensure the proper working condition and also if all the safety standards are met.

Hence people who own electrical companies and take up contract work for large factories, industries or corporations can benefit immensely in registering with employment agencies. Using the right recruitment agency ensures that you hire only skilled, talented and qualified people for the various positions vacant in your company. The first tip is to use employment agencies that are specific for electrical jobs instead of general agencies which cater to all job types.

In addition to inspecting the work of junior electricians, the lead electrical officer also becomes responsible for the maintenance of time sheets, pay roll and record keeping for the materials. Usually electricians who are additional qualifications and many years of experience are appointed as the lead especially by big companies. Sometimes the lead electrician is also the person who has special skills in handling a new type of electrical appliance or system.

If you own an electrical business, then there are plenty of employment agencies which can help you in recruiting skilled electricians and electrical engineers for your company. Another big advantage of using these recruitment firms is that they can save you a lot of time in finding the right candidate for your needs.

Anyone who aspires to be a lead electrician must have passed the seven year training and certification in electrical repair and maintenance or completed a four year training program conducted by the federal government. In addition to an extensive knowledge of all types of tools and electrical equipments, the lead electrician must also be well versed in the safety regulations, governmental policies regarding electrical systems, codes and standards.

The internet has a lot of information if you are looking out for some qualified technicians and the lead electrician to take your company to greater heights. This can be done by sitting right at your own house and also can save on the fees or other charges levied by several agencies. The perfect decision can be finally taken by checking the resumes, photo uploaded as well as their experience apart from a phone conversation with the individual.

Keeping in mind these tips and pointers will help you immensely in getting qualified and skilled lead electricians for your company.