Electricians install, connect, test, and maintain electrical systems for a variety of purposes, including climate control, security and communications. They also install and maintain the electronic controls for machines in business and industry. Electricians work with blueprints when they install electrical systems in factories, office buildings, homes and other structures. Blueprints indicate the location of circuits outlets, load centers, panel boards and other equipment. Electricians must follow the National Electric Code and comply with State and local building codes when they install these systems.

In addition to wiring a building’s electrical system, electricians may install coaxial or fiber optic cable for computers and other telecommunications equipment. A growing number of electricians install telephone and computer wiring and equipment. They also may connect motors to electrical power and install electronic controls for industrial equipment.

Must live in the area covered by Local #34, IBEW, Peoria, Galesburg & Quincy Divisions; must be 17 years of age at the time of application and 18 years of age to begin work; be at least a high school graduate, or have a GED, or in lieu of a high school diploma or GED, have a two year associate degree or higher. Show evidence of successful completion of: one full credit of high school algebra course with a passing grade, or provide evidence of successfully completing the NJATC Online Tech Math Course. Provide an official transcript(s) for high school and post high school education and training or all GED records within 30 days of application. Must possess a valid Driver’s License. An aptitude test will be given to qualified applicants. Applicants to be interviewed will be determined by the apprenticeship committee based on educational transcripts and the aptitude test score. Applicant must be physically able to do the work and not be color blind.

Classroom study will be one  to two nights a week for four hours. Program length is five years for inside electrician, three years for telecommunication and three years for residential electrician.

Algebra, geometry, trigonometry and drafting classes.

Electricians’ work is sometimes strenuous. They may stand for long periods of time and frequently work on ladders and scaffolds. They often work in awkward or cramped positions. 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 job sites.

Familiarity with any type of construction work or electronics would be beneficial.

Must be physically fit to perform the job of carpenter with no restrictions.

While in the program, wages range from 40 to 90 percent of Journeyman-wireman wage scale.

Raises are based on eight periods of on-the-job hours.

• $38.25/hr Base Wage, plus
• $8.15/hr Health and Welfare, Plus
• $13.45/hr Annuity and Pension.

(subject to change)