What it takes to become an IBEW Member

JOB DESCRIPTION

Electricians install, repair, operate and maintain electrical equipment and circuitry. Construction electricians wire buildings, install traffic signals, and work in electrical manholes installing or repairing cables. Maintenance electricians inspect electrical equipment and systems for defects and hazards. Electricians use light hand tools such as screwdrivers, pliers and knives and heavier equipment such as pipe threader, conduit and EMT benders, and hammer drills.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Most of the work is done indoors; however a construction electrician may find himself/herself outside if the building has not been closed all winter. The work requires some physical strength and a great deal of flexibility. The electrician often finds himself/herself standing for long periods of time on ladders or in very cramped quarters. Good safety practices limit the risk of electrical shock.

JOB AVAILABILITY

Electricians work mostly for electrical contractors, private companies, municipalities, or medical facilities.

WAGES

The hourly rate for a Union journeyman electrician at IBEW Local 99 Apprentices' wages start at 42% of the journeyman's rate, or $14.31, and increase every six months. Benefits include Health and Dental insurance, Pension and an Annuity

HOW TO BECOME AN ELECTRICIAN

Apply to the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee or the Joint Apprenticeship Action Committee of the Electrical Contracting Industry. The applicant must be 18 years of age. A high school diploma or GED, plus one year of high school algebra with a passing grade of 70, an aptitude test and interview are required for admission. The apprenticeship is 5 years of classroom related instruction and 8,000 hours of on the job training.

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers

22 Amflex Drive • Cranston, RI 02921

(401) 946-9900 • Fax (401) 946-9907