Blog

Electrical Contractor Roles & Responsibilities

August 2, 2023

Electrical contractors are essential to the construction and maintenance of both residential and commercial buildings, as they ensure the safe and efficient operation of electrical systems, ranging from basic lighting to complex network installations. Read on to discover more about this exciting career!

What is an Electrical Contractor?

Electrical contractors are responsible for the planning, installation, and upkeep of electrical systems in structures like homes, offices, and industrial buildings. This term not only refers to the companies offering these services but also to the individual workers who physically carry out the tasks.

Electrical contractors are broadly categorized into three main types:

Inside Electrical Contractors: Serve as the main contractor for all aspects of electrical systems, including cabling design, installation, and maintenance for industrial, commercial, and residential buildings. They deliver electrical services to any structure within the property’s boundary, which includes outdoor lighting and substations. 

Outside or “Line” Electrical Contractors: Service outdoor, high-voltage electrical needs, such as linemen who work on transporting electricity generated at a power plant through power lines and substations to power buildings and homes.  

Integrated Building Systems Contractors (IBS): Oversee the low-voltage electrical aspects of a building’s integrated systems, such as access and climate control, networking, energy-efficient lighting, telecommunications, security systems, and more.

What Does an Electrical Contractor Do?

Electrical contractors are essentially electricians, but not all electricians are electrical contractors because the term also refers to companies that employ them. While the day-to-day activities of electrical contractors vary depending on their specialty and the project at hand, some of their responsibilities include: 

  • Troubleshooting electrical systems 
  • Installing, maintaining, and upgrading electrical systems
  • Project management
  • Managing client relationships

Skills and abilities required for electrical contractors include: 

  • Color vision 
  • Endurance/strength 
  • Communication 
  • Attention to detail 
  • Business knowledge
  • Motor skills
  • Schematic comprehension 
  • Intermediate math level

How Much Does an Electrical Contractor Make?

Your salary as an electrical contractor is not solely determined by your training and experience but also by your geographical location within the U.S. On average, you can earn between $18.00 and $30.00 for electrical apprentices and between $37.00 and $52.00 for master electricians. Demand is another factor that may increase wages, and electricians are currently in high demand.

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects electrician opportunities will increase by eight percent between 2019 and 2029, which is faster than the projected growth for all U.S. jobs over the same time period, at half or four percent. 

If you’re interested in getting into the field, State Electric Company is hiring electrical apprentices and journeymen. Visit our careers page to learn more and apply online.

__________

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge of renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs. 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/