Overview:

Electrician/Electronics Technicians implement wiring and the maintenance for mechanical equipment in electrical systems.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Installation, maintenance and repair of electrical systems
• Read blueprints and diagrams while troubleshooting and diagnosing electrical problems
• Perform preventative maintenance to avoid operational failures of electrical systems
• Install electrical wiring, assemble electrical parts and test fixtures and components that provide electricity to related instruments
• Provide drawings and suggestions related to inspection and testing
• Use computers and other technologies to test electrical equipment
• Tear apart and reassemble equipment
• Read dials and meters to determine amperage, voltage, electrical output and input at specific operating temperature to analyze parts performance
• Install electrical warning systems
• Ensure compliance with local and national electrical codes
• Maintain an inventory of the instrument/electrical/electronic parts
• Assist in developing, trainings and reviewing electrical programs and procedures for company

What education and training is required?

A high school diploma or more preferably an associate’s degree in industrial equipment technologies, HVAC Maintenances or electrical/electronic technology is required.  With a high school diploma you will need to earn electrical certifications.

To pursue a career as an Electrician:

The following high school courses are recommended:  agricultural education, a focus on science, and mathematics.

Where can I work?

Typical employers: employed by farm equipment dealers and manufacturers, grain milling operations, research firms, meat processing companies, as well as some state and government agencies.

Future Job Market/Outlook:

The future outlook for Electricians is projected to be good to excellent depending on skills, certification and location.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations:

• National Electrical Contractors Association
• Farm Equipment Manufacturers Association
• Midwest Equipment Dealers Association
• International Association of Electrical