When electrical issues strike, you need to find help as quickly as possible. However, not all electricians have the same skill sets or are even have the experience to tackle the same projects. In addition to knowing what problem you need solved, you also need to know what kind of electrician can come to your aid. Journeyman electricians and master electricians are the most common type of electricians used for routine jobs and can work on different projects. Continue reading to learn what sets these electricians apart so you can make the right choice when an electrical issue arises.
Education
All electricians start their education off the same. First, they must earn their high school diploma or GED and then enroll in an apprenticeship program to become a journeyman electrician. This program will last a minimum of four years, combining classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students will learn how to read blueprints and mechanical drawings as well as how to install and maintain electrical equipment. They will also gain a deep understanding of electrical codes and regulations so they can ensure all their future work is done properly. Once their apprenticeship is completed, students must pass a licensing exam to become a journeyman electrician and work in their chosen state.
While the road to becoming a journeyman electrician ends here, becoming a master electrician requires more education. In addition to working as a journeyman electrician for a minimum of two years, depending on the state, those wanting to become a master electrician need to complete advanced coursework in several fields. Prospects also need to be able to create blueprints and mechanical drawings, solve complex electrical system failures, and manage projects to get their master electrician license. This additional education allows them to handle and even lead more complicated projects than a journeyman electrician would be able to.
Job Responsibilities
While journeyman electricians and master electricians may both work on electrical projects, they are able to do so in different capacities. For example, journeyman electricians focus mainly on installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems. This includes fixing wiring issues as well as installing and testing new electrical appliances. Master electricians can also perform these standard electrical duties along with many more. Due to their wider range of experience, master electricians can make electrical repairs as well as design electrical blueprints, manage projects, and ensure everything is up to code.
Project Scope
When deciding between a journeyman electrician and a master electrician, project scope is a vital consideration. Journeyman electricians can work independently on routine projects such as fixing issues with an electrical system. However, more complex projects like designing and building a new electrical system require a team led by a master electrician. These professionals have the advanced experience needed for these projects, as well as the qualifications to lead a team of electricians and communicate with other contractors. Master electricians can even start their own business with hand-picked teams they know work well together.
When to Hire a Journeyman or Master Electrician
While journeyman electricians and master electricians are both highly skilled, they are not interchangeable with projects. For residential projects, a journeyman electrician is often the right choice. These electricians are fully licensed to handle common electrical tasks such as installing lighting fixtures, replacing outlets, or troubleshooting power issues. For larger, more complex jobs like commercial projects, a master electrician is usually the answer. They are qualified to design electrical systems, pull permits, manage large crews, and ensure every part of the job meets strict local codes. Master electricians can be especially important when coordinating with general contractors or managing timelines on high-budget builds or renovations. In short, a journeyman electrician is best for smaller, routine jobs while master electricians are best for when projects are more complicated.
Ready to Start Your Next Electrical Project?
Whether you’re suffering from frequent electrical issues or looking to install a completely new system, you need to pick the right electrician for the job. At Landis Electric, our journeyman and master electricians are here to help no matter the size or complexity of your project. Call to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled electricians and get started on your next electrical project today.