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An electrical contractor is a business person or firm that
performs specialized construction work related to the design,
installation, and maintenance of electrical systems.
An electrical contractor is different than an electrician; an
electrician is an individual tradesman and an electrical
contractor is a business person or company that employs
electricians. Both usually hold licenses and insurances to
properly and safely operate a business, protecting the employees
and home owners/business owners from insurance liabilities.
These requirements vary from state to state. Electricians may
work for an electrical contractor, or directly for individuals
or companies.
Electrical contractors employ workers in many capacities,
determined by their level of training and experience. Some
common jobs include:
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Apprentice
Electrician — Receives on-the-job training and classroom
instruction from licensed journeymen or master electricians
about how to install, modify, repair, and maintain power and
lighting systems. Most apprentice programs last 3 to 5 years and
apprentices earn wages during this training period.
Journeyman Electrician — Installs, modifies, repairs, and
maintains power and lighting systems. Reads blueprints,
terminates cable, and installs and troubleshoots control wiring
from drawings. Has completed the apprentice program and holds a
journeyman's license (according to state requirements) and
supervises apprentices.
Estimator — Calculates a project's duration and cost,
including materials, overhead, and labour. This estimate is
often submitted as a bid on a project and serves as a scheduling
and budget guideline as the project proceeds.
Project Supervisor — Oversees workforce to encourage safe
and high-quality installations. Monitors progress to meet
project deadlines. Submits required reports and forms.
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