Electrical Contracting: What You Need to Know

Do you love lighting as much as we do here at e-conolight? A career as an electrical contractor may be for you!

Working in homes, businesses and factories, electrical contractors, “design, develop, test and install electrical hardware, equipment and systems.” Electrical contractors can narrow their scope to focus on either construction, maintenance, or both. They also have flexibility within their trade, and can choose from four general industry classifications:

  • Outside/ Line contractors
  • Inside Wireman
  • VDV Installer Technician
  • Residential Wireman

There is a lot of flexibility within this field, but before entering in to the electrical contracting industry, there are a few things you should know. This job typically has a higher rate of on-site accidents than the national average. Despite that finding, the industry is worth $130 billion in the US and is a desired field to work in. Before showing up on a job site, there are some necessary skills and certain requirements needed:

RequirementsSkills
  • High school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Post-secondary education, with a degree in a related field, is preferable in most instances.
  • Certain level of experience is required, which can be provided by a technical trade school or an apprenticeships.
  • Electricians must be able to differentiate and identify wire colors.
  • Licensure is required in nearly all states - with requirements varying by region.
  • Staying up-to-date on all state laws and regulations is imperative.
  • Good communication and people skills are necessary for building a clientele base.
  • Attention to detail is a must.
  • Troubleshooting skills.
  • Managing your business, a team of employees and expenses effectively.
Clint
Article Written by Clint Y.

Clint is a Product Marketing Specialist. He aims to bring innovative, high-quality lighting to the market that provides a solution to customers’ needs. By keeping the consumer front of mind, he focuses on providing superior customer service and competitive pricing and delivering the best overall experience and value straight to the consumer.