Last month, we discussed the many financial and non-financial benefits of becoming an electrician. But how do you become a journeyman electrician in Illinois? Here we provide guidance.
Step 1 – Apprenticeship
Before you can become a journeyman electrician, you must serve an apprenticeship, which is usually sponsored by a company or union. To serve an apprenticeship, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be physically capable of performing the work
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Score at least a “C” in a high school algebra course
Apprenticeship programs include both classroom training and on-the-job work experience. 500-800 hours of classroom training are required. The sponsoring company or union usually will pay the cost for classroom training.
You will also need 8,000 hours (four years) of work experience. Work experience can include:
- Assisting electrical contractors and journeyman electricians
- Installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical systems
- Operating a company vehicle
- Taking the required electrical courses
And one more thing about the apprenticeship program – you usually get paid while you are getting on-the-job experience.
Step 2 – Become a Journeyman Electrician
Once you have successfully completed your apprenticeship, you can apply for your license by taking a city or county electrician exam. The exam costs around $100, and you must score 75% to pass. Exam topics include:
- Electrical wire safety
- Fire detection and alarm systems
- Local electrical requirements
- OSHA regulations
Once you become a journeyman electrician, you can supervise apprentices.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for a Career as an Electrician
If you are interested in becoming an electrician, Ravinia Plumbing is interested in talking with you. We offer interesting work, excellent compensation, and opportunities for advancement. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 96 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we’ve made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicagoland. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today for more information.
