Overview
Electricians (except industrial and power system) lay out, assemble, install, test, troubleshoot and repair electrical wiring, fixtures, control devices and related equipment in buildings and other structures. They are employed by electrical contractors and maintenance departments of buildings and other establishments, or they may be self-employed. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Read and interpret drawings, circuit diagrams and electrical code specifications to determine wiring layouts for new or existing installations
Pull wire through conduits and through holes in walls and floors
Install brackets and hangers to support electrical equipment
Install, replace and repair lighting fixtures and electrical control and distribution equipment, such as switches, relays and circuit breaker panels
Splice, join and connect wire to fixtures and components to form circuits
Test continuity of circuits using test equipment to ensure compatibility and safety of system, following installation, replacement or repair
Troubleshoot and isolate faults in electrical and electronic systems and remove and replace faulty components
Connect electrical power to audio and visual communication equipment, signalling devices and heating and cooling systems
Conduct preventive maintenance programs and keep maintenance records.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$37,541
$59,440
$87,491
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
British Columbia
1,516expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is usually required.
Completion of a four- to five-year apprenticeship program is usually required.
Trade certification for construction electricians is compulsory in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta and available, but voluntary, in British Columbia, the Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
Additional information
The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.
Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Electricians (except industrial and power system) in B.C.
- Skilled Trades Certification - Electricians
Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Electricians (except industrial and power system) in B.C.
- Electrician Red Seal Certification
Skilled Trades Certification - Electricians
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To work as an electrician in B.C., you will need a SkilledTradesBC certification demonstrating that you have completed the necessary technical training and work experience part of your apprenticeship program.
Electrician Red Seal Certification
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
This career is eligible for Red Seal endorsement. When all levels of your trades training are complete, you can write an Interprovincial Red Seal exam. A successful result demonstrates you have met the national standard for your trade in Canada will allow you to practice your trade outside of B.C. in provinces and territories covered by the Red Seal certification.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.