They work indoors and outdoors and may work in dusty, hot, or wet conditions. Electricians often work in confined areas. Most work a standard 40-hour week with overtime sometimes required. If an electrician works for a company that operates 24 hours a day, their shift may vary and sometime they may have to work nights, weekends, or be on call. Safety procedures must be closely followed to avoid injury on the job.
Some electricians specialize in either construction or maintenance and many today can do both.
Upon completion of the electrical systems technology program, students should have the qualifications to enter apprenticeship programs offered by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Independent Electrical Contractors, or local contractors. They can also enroll in a post-secondary institution. Additional education resulting in a baccalaureate degree from a four-year college can lead to employment as an electrical engineer. Air conditioning mechanic, cable installers and repairers, electronics mechanic, elevator constructors, electrical equipment salesperson, electrical apprentice, electrical production repairer, and electrical repairer.