What is a Journeyman Electrician? Duties, Certification, and Opportunities

Zeke Carrington | Posted on February 2, 2024 |

Electricians hold one of society’s most indispensable roles, ensuring the seamless and safe flow of electricity, which is the lifeblood of modern living. Tasked with installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical power systems, communications, and control systems, they operate behind the scenes in homes, businesses, and factories to power our daily lives.

In the United States, the demand for skilled electricians is robust, with projections indicating a steady career growth trajectory. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the profession reflects both the increasing reliance on electrical systems in a technology-driven era and the lucrative return on investment (ROI) those entering this field can expect. This trade expertise is not merely a job; it’s an essential service that maintains the rhythm of our society.

Considering a career in this vital sector, one must understand the hierarchical steps within the profession. Before one can aspire to become a master electrician, there is an important milestone: becoming a journeyman electrician.

What is a Journeyman Electrician?

A journeyman electrician is an industry-certified individual who has completed the necessary education, training, and apprenticeship to perform a wide array of electrical work. This certification is often a midpoint in an electrician’s career path, with the initial stage being an apprentice and the subsequent one being a master electrician.

The term “journeyman” itself has historical roots, stemming from the medieval trade guilds. It indicated that a tradesperson had completed an apprenticeship and was fully educated in their trade, thus being entitled to earn wages as a skilled worker.

The “journey” in journeyman also refers to the period during which a tradesperson would travel or “journey” to work with different masters, gaining diverse experiences before they themselves could become a master electrician.

The journeyman level ensures that the electrician has a significant level of professionalism and expertise to work independently, though not yet at the level to run their own business or supervise other journeymen, which are capabilities typically reserved for a master electrician.

Skills Required to Become a Journeyman Electrician

If your ultimate goal is to become a journeyman electrician, acquiring a particular skill set is crucial. Here’s what’s needed and how to attain these proficiencies:

Technical Knowledge: Understanding electrical theory, wiring techniques, and the properties of conductive materials is foundational.
Safety Practices: A thorough comprehension of safety standards to prevent workplace accidents is vital. This includes knowledge of OSHA regulations and local codes.
Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to diagnose and fix electrical issues requires logical problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
Manual Dexterity and Physical Fitness: Working with small components in tight spaces, often at heights or in uncomfortable positions, calls for physical coordination and stamina.
Reading and Interpreting Blueprints: Electricians must be able to understand and follow technical diagrams and building plans.
Customer Service Skills: Good communication with customers and the ability to explain technical concepts in a clear and customer-friendly manner are important.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Journeyman Electrician

As a journeyman electrician, your job description will encompass a range of roles and responsibilities essential to the profession:

Installation: Set up electrical systems, including wiring, control systems, and lighting fixtures, in new buildings and constructions.
Maintenance: Perform routine checks and servicing of existing electrical systems to ensure they are functioning correctly and safely.
Troubleshooting: Identify and repair electrical problems in residential, commercial, or industrial settings.
Compliance: Ensure all work is in compliance with the NEC and local electrical codes.
Supervision: Oversee and mentor apprentices and provide guidance on proper techniques and safety practices.
Coordination: Work collaboratively with other construction professionals and tradespeople on larger projects.
Continuous Education: Keep current with the latest electrical technology and practices to ensure competent and code-compliant work.

Certification: The Key to Recognition as a Journeyman Electrician

Earning the certification of a journeyman electrician is perhaps the most significant step on this career path. This credential validates your skills and knowledge, signifying your ability to work independently on a wide range of electrical tasks. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the certification process:

Education

Start with a solid foundation of a high school diploma or its equivalent. Following this, consider enrolling in vocational training or pursuing an associate degree in electrical technology. These programs often cover basic electrical theory, safety practices, and the use of tools and equipment.

Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship is a critical step towards becoming a journeyman electrician. These programs, which typically last between four and five years, offer a blend of classroom instruction and practical training under the guidance of experienced electricians. You’ll get a chance to apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios, gaining invaluable hands-on experience.

Licensing Preparation

Once your apprenticeship is complete, it’s time to prepare for the journeyman electrician licensing exam. This test generally covers the National Electrical Code (NEC), local electrical codes, and sometimes aspects of electrical theory. It’s crucial to adequately prepare for this exam, as passing it is a requirement for obtaining your journeyman electrician license.

Continued Learning

The world of electrical work is constantly evolving, with new technologies emerging and updates to electrical codes being made. As such, it’s vital to commit to lifelong learning in this field. Many states require journeyman electricians to complete continuing education courses as part of their license renewal process. These courses can keep you updated on the latest developments in the industry and help you maintain your competency as an electrician.

Utilizing Your Journeyman Electrician License

Once you’ve gained your journeyman electrician certification, a vast array of opportunities open up to you. Here are some areas where you can make use of your expertise:

Residential Services: You can work in residential settings, installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems in homes.
Commercial Services: Offices, restaurants, and other commercial establishments require the services of journeyman electricians for their electrical needs.
Industrial Services: Factories and industrial plants have complex electrical systems that need installation, maintenance, and repair, offering ample opportunities for journeyman electricians.
Construction Projects: New construction projects often require journeyman electricians to install new electrical systems.
Maintenance and Repair Services: Many companies hire journeyman electricians to perform regular maintenance and repair work on their electrical systems.
Consultation Services: As a journeyman electrician, you can offer consultation services to individuals or companies planning to install new electrical systems.
Teaching: If you have a knack for sharing knowledge, consider teaching aspiring electricians at a vocational school or community college.

Is becoming a journeyman electrician worth it?

Becoming a journeyman electrician requires a significant investment of time and effort, but the rewards can be substantial. For one, the job offers a high degree of satisfaction as you get to solve complex problems, work with your hands, and see tangible results from your work.

In terms of financial compensation, the median annual wage for electricians in the United States was $60,240 in May 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, salaries can vary widely depending on factors like location, experience, and specialty. Experienced journeyman electricians can earn even higher wages.

Beyond the financial aspect, this career path offers a sense of stability and security. The demand for skilled electricians is consistent, and the need for electrical work in residential, commercial, and industrial settings is unlikely to diminish.

In conclusion, if you’re interested in a hands-on career that offers variety, problem-solving opportunities, and a good income, becoming a journeyman electrician could be a fantastic choice.