Electrical contractors are Master Electricians who deal with every aspect of the homes electrical system. The Electrical Contractor runs a shop where products are assembled and assigns crews to perform installations.
Pre-Employment Skills
- Construction safety training
- Use of hand and power tools
- Knowledge of imperial and metric measurements
- Grade 12 math
General Job Description
Electrical contractors negotiate supply and install contracts with homebuilders. Contractors will then coordinate electrical crews, made up of Electricians, apprentices and helpers, to complete the installation of electrical components in a home. New home electrical installations take place in two stages: rough-in and finishing. Rough-in takes place after the framing, roofing, and heating and plumbing rough-ins have been completed. Finishing takes place after the interior finish woodwork and painting have been done. Most electrician skills can be learned through the installation of home wiring systems, meaning electricians in the homebuilding industry are among the most versatile in all industries.
Aptitudes:
Electricians need the following characteristics:
- Good physical health, with good vision and spatial awareness
- Good balance and safety awareness
- Ability to work well on a team
- Mental alertness
Electrical Contractors need the following characteristics:
- Good oral and written communication skills
- Strong organizational skills
- Ability to motivate staff
- Good business sense
- Ability to work within timelines
- Ability to get along well with people
Job Functions:
Electrician
- Study building plans determining materials required and details of work to be performed based on builder specifications and building codes
- Mount electrical usage meter to exterior wall
- Extend wiring from property line and hook up to electrical usage meter
- Mark out locations of all lighting fixtures and outlets based upon building blueprints
- Mount fixture boxes to wall studs using hand tools and nails
- Install plastic poly vapor barriers around fixture boxes on exterior walls and ceilings
- Cut and drill holes in wall studs, joists, ceilings and floors using hole saws
- Pull and install wiring throughout house to all required fixtures and main circuit board
- Install and mark panel breakers for identification
- Install all lighting and outlet faceplates
- Check switches and plugs for correct polarity and troubleshoot any problems
- Ensure work area is maintained clean and safe
Electrical Contractor
- Supervise and schedule activities of electrician crews, apprentices, and helpers
- Requisition materials and supplies
- Train or arrange for training of workers
- Recommend personnel actions such as hiring and promotions
- Ensure safe working conditions
- Manage company operations
- Estimate and price electrical jobs
Experience Levels (Approximate time in each position)
5. Electrical Contractor
4. Master Electrician - 6+ years
3. Journeyman Electrician - 5+ years
2. Apprentice Electrician - 4+ years
1. Electrician’s Helper - 6 months to 2 years
It usually takes about 20 years to become an Electrical Contractor.
