Homebuilding Career
Hi! I’m an Electrician
I am the one who makes the lights turn on! Electricians prepare, assemble, install and repair electrical wiring, fixtures, control panels and electrical equipment in your home.
Here are some of the skills you need:
- Understanding of construction drawings, circuit diagrams and electrical code specifications
- Trouble-shooting to solve mechanical problems
- Strong digital technology skills
- Detail oriented in your work
Every building needs an electrical system and electricians can be called in to install or repair an array of tasks, from the planning of wiring to installing and updating circuits.
Electricians typically work for electrical contractors or building maintenance departments, however, some seize the opportunity to be self-employed with flexible hours and a great salary.
Mid-Range
>$66,000
Average Salary
High-Range
>$89,000
Average Salary
What are the training or certification requirements?
Certification is not required to work as an electrician in B.C., however, most employers prefer candidates who are certified. The provincial government is introducing 10 skilled trades certifications, including electricians, and those who wish to be certified must complete a four-year apprenticeship program.
What’s the earning potential?
The mid-range average salary is $66,560 and the high range is $89,440.
Where can I learn more about this career?
Click here to learn more about this career from Skilled Trades BC, with links to technical training providers.
The Canadian Home Builders’ Association has identified approximately 40 provincially designated skilled trades in homebuilding. Check them out here.
Related Resources
Canadian Apprenticeship Forum
Learn MoreCAF-FCA is a non-profit organization that connects Canada’s apprenticeship community. It works collaboratively with the construction industry to support a vibrant and innovative apprenticeship system with a view to developing a highly skilled, inclusive and mobile skilled trades workforce.
TradeUpBC
Learn MoreTradeUpBC is a provincially-funded initiative that connects tradespeople to all BC post-secondary institutes. The primary goal is to elevate and broaden the accessibility of microcredentials and professional development opportunities for tradespeople across the province.
SkilledTradesBC
Learn MoreSkilledTradesBC is a public sector organization that works with employers and industry partners to advance BC’s trades training system. They also issue credentials, support apprentices, fund programs and promote a wide range of rewarding careers in the trades.
Student WorkSafe Resources
Learn MoreThis is the place to start if you’re a secondary school career education or apprenticeship educator. Student WorkSafe resources are designed to support the B.C. career education curriculum.
Looking for Another trade?
The Canadian Home Builders’ Association has identified approximately 40 provincially designated skilled trades in the residential construction industry.
Find your future in these job possibilitiesFind Your Trade
Discover the right trade for you!
SkilledTradesBC has developed this quick, fun quiz which will help you explore the best skilled trades for you!
All you need to do is pick a few words that describe yourself and the quiz will match you with your top five trades!
inspire the next generation of homebuilders
The Homebuilders Initiative (Hi!) is on a mission to promote skilled trades and construction as a career of choice!
If you are passionate about your career in construction and have worked in the skilled trades for plus 5 years, we would like to talk to you about joining us as a volunteer Homebuilders Initiative Ambassador.
Reach out to dani@chbabc.org for more information.
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