A job description for an electrician
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Sophie Jones is a qualified electrician. She works for an electrical contractor and is based in northern England. Most of her job involves installing electricity to new houses and building on construction sites.
Why did you choose to become an electrician?
I became interested in electrical work at school and it was a natural move for me. I liked the variety of work that comes with the job and I wanted to obtain a useful qualification. I now have a trade which will give me a good living.
What does the job involve?
Installation electricians are responsible for all the lighting and power points needed in the buildings together with the mains supply and wiring. We also have to fit the wiring for cookers, washing machines and, in some cases, central heating.
When do you start working on the site?
We get involved before the building even starts and just after the foundations have been laid. We have to lay the main electricity wiring, which is housed in protective pipes or conduits, from the main transformers into central areas where the structure is being built.
We then have to come back when the building is almost finished to complete the wiring into the premises and to specific power points. The initial plans for the site and the buildings show where the wiring is to be laid and the position of the electrical points to be installed.
What equipment do you use?
Drills, screwdrivers and portable electric handtools. Sometimes we also use small generators to provide us with mobile power for our drills before the mains are ready for use. We also use test equipment to check that our installations are safe.
What training have you done so far?
I started work as a Modern Apprentice straight from school. During the first year I attended college for 12 weeks in four sessions of three weeks. During the second year I went to college for six weeks and a further two weeks in the third. I spent the remaining time on-the-job training with my employer. After three years I passed the NVQ Level 3 and Achievement Measurement (AM2) in Electrical Installation. This means I am now a fully qualified electrician.
What do you like best about being an electrician?
I like meeting different people and each day produces different problems which have to be solved. No two days are the same.
What skills and qualities are needed for this work?
Being able to work in a team, using your initiative and not being afraid to ask questions. Being good at communication is also vital in this work. You must be able to read drawings and have an eye for detail.
Sophie's electrician tips
- Contact companies to check on the availability of work experience.
- Always be willing to learn.
Electrician related jobs
- PAT testing jobs
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- Engineering operative
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Average salary of an electrician
- Basic starting salary for qualified electrician is likely to be between £13,000 - £15,000, rising to more than £20,000 with experience.
- Earnings are boosted often with overtime and bonus payments.
How to become an electrician in uk
- Entry is normally through Modern Apprenticeship (Skillseekers) training.
- Installation electricians might be self-employed or work on short-term contracts for different employers.
