Apprentice - Richmond, VA Branch

Purpose

The job purpose of an electrical apprentice is to gain practical experience and learn the necessary skills under the supervision of a qualified electrician. Apprenticeship helps in learning the concepts and skills necessary to become a certified electrician. As an apprentice, an electrician will receive a combination of classroom education and paid on- the-job experience. Skills that are typically covered in these programs include how to design, install and repair commercial or residential electrical systems. Apprentice electricians work under the observation of a journey-level electrician, building basic skills and gaining additional tasks and responsibilities as they improve.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Learning and Training

As an Electrician Apprentice, you will spend the majority of your time learning and training under the supervision of qualified electricians. This will involve attending classroom lectures, studying electrical theory and codes, and participating in hands-on training sessions.

• Assisting Electricians

As an Electrician Apprentice, you will work closely with experienced electricians to assist them with various tasks. This may involve helping to install wiring, conduit, and electrical components, as well as troubleshooting and repairing electrical systems.

• Safety Compliance

As an Electrician Apprentice, you will be responsible for maintaining a safe working environment by following safety protocols and regulations. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), adhering to safety guidelines and practices.

• Documenting and Reporting

As an Electrician Apprentice, you will be responsible for maintaining accurate records and reporting any observations or findings to the supervising electrician. This may include documenting installation details, completing checklists, and providing updates on project progress.

• Learning and Adapting

As an Electrician Apprentice, you will have the opportunity to learn and adapt to new technologies and industry standards. This may involve attending workshops, seminars, or training sessions to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in the electrical industry.

Minimum Requirement

• At least 18 years of age or older
• High School Diploma, GED or Equivalency
• Able to pass Basic Skills Test, Multi-Craft Aptitude Test, Color Identification Test and Drug Screen.

Qualifications / Licenses & Work Experience

To be considered as an Electrician Apprentice, you must meet the following.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Interest or passion for the electrical industry
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Strong work ethic and reliability
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Valid driver's license may be required
• Basic knowledge of electrical principles and terminology
• Work Experience: Electrical or Mechanical xperience recommended
• Familiarity with electrical safety standards and regulations
• Licenses – N/A
• Physical stamina and the ability to lift and carry heavy objects
• Ability to work in various weather conditions

Skills Required

The apprentice must be able to follow direction, as most jobs begin with a blueprint that details where electrical devices need to be installed, also needs to know where to look for issues and be a capable problem solver. Should be organized, analytical and provide the necessary strength and stamina for a job that involves occasional heavy lifting and flexibility. On top of those things, apprentices need to be able to act on the instructions from a supervisor and work well alone or as members of a team.

Typical Working Conditions: 

Electricians' work is often strenuous. They may stand for long periods and frequently work on ladders and scaffolds. Their working environment varies, depending on the type of job. Some may work in dusty, dirty, hot, or wet conditions, or in confined areas, ditches, or other uncomfortable places. Electricians risk injury from electrical shock, falls, and cuts; to avoid injuries, they must follow strict safety procedures. Some electricians may have to travel to jobsites, which may be up to 80 miles away.

Equipment Used:

Electricians use hand tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, knives, and saws. They also use power tools such as band saws, sawzalls and drills and testing equipment such as voltmeters, ammeters and ohmmeters.

Essential Physical Tasks:

Identifying and separating wires by color. Digging trenches and working in trenches. Breaking concrete with jackhammer or other tools. Assisting in the moving, positioning and fastening of heavy electrical equipment. Lifting, positioning and fastening objects such as light fixtures, wire, conduit, junction boxes, motors and other equipment. Carrying material and tools from location to location or floor to floor. Working from A-Frames, extension ladders and scaffolds at various heights. Crawling under floors and working in attics where space is limited. Working under hot and cold weather conditions, indoors and outdoors. Lifting and working with tools and equipment above head