Careers in electrical can offer hands-on work in industries like construction, automation, energy and industrial maintenance. Many, you can train for in less than one year.
If you're looking to enter the field, this guide will explore different paths, the training required, career outlook and who makes the best candidate! Keep reading to learn if a career in electrical is the right fit for you and find your match.
Why Choose a Career in Electrical Work?
Electrical careers provide opportunities to perform meaningful and essential work. In addition to that, many professionals chose this field for the following reasons:
- Quick path to a career – Training for the electrical field often takes less than one year, meaning you can pursue opportunities ASAP.
- Stability – Electrical professionals are essential in industries that keep the world moving, like manufacturing, construction, automation and energy.
- Dynamic work – Electrical careers can provide variety. Not only will you work hands-on, performing mechanical duties, but you’ll also get to use high-tech tools. One day you may help wire a new residential home and the next you might troubleshoot issues on a large, commercial building!
- Career growth – With experience and training, you can grow into advanced roles or specialize in a specific field.
7 Electrical Careers That Take Less Than 1 Year To Train For
There are many careers in electricity and electronics you can explore. Some require a stronger mechanical aptitude while others call for tech-savviness. Browse the top careers involving electricity below and find one that fits your abilities and interests.
1. Electrical technician
An electrical technician installs, maintains, troubleshoots and repairs electrical systems. Not to be confused with an electrician, electrical technicians often work as their assistants, helping them complete work in residential, commercial or industrial settings.
Their responsibilities may include reading blueprints and schematics, gathering tools, maintaining a safe working environment, testing and repairing electrical components, and programming programmable logic controllers (PLCs).
How to become one
Pursuing an electrical technician career typically starts with trade school. Most employers will look for candidates with hands-on training in electrical theory, circuit design and troubleshooting. Certifications such as NCCER and OSHA Safety Certification can also enhance job prospects.
What makes a good candidate?
The ideal electrical technician is someone with strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, an interest in hands-on work and the ability to use technology.
Career outlook
Most often, these professionals work in manufacturing, utility companies, wholesale trade, repair and maintenance or for government agencies.
2. Robotics & automation technician
Robotics and automation technicians work on robotic systems, automated machinery and industrial control systems used in manufacturing, logistics and other high-tech industries.
These technicians may work with programmable logic controllers, robotic arms, conveyor systems and smart sensors to optimize efficiency and reduce downtime in automated production lines. Their role often includes diagnosing electrical issues and helping program equipment.
How to become one
Most robotics and automation technicians start with trade school where they learn hands-on in labs and practice programming, industrial automation, working with motor controls and more.
What makes a good candidate?
Robotics and automation technicians are detail-oriented, logical thinkers with strong problem-solving abilities. They have a knack for making processes more efficient and may be interested in innovative technologies like AI.
Career outlook
As industries continue to embrace automation and smart manufacturing, these technicians play a crucial role in supporting:
- Scientific research and development services.
- Engineering services.
- Machinery manufacturing.
- Navigational, electromedical and control instruments manufacturing.
- Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing.
3. Fire alarm technician
A fire alarm technician installs, repairs and maintains fire alarm systems in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. These technicians ensure that fire detection and suppression systems function properly to protect lives and property.
Their job might include testing alarm panels, troubleshooting wiring issues, configuring smoke and heat detectors, integrating security and fire control systems, and ensuring compliance with fire codes and safety regulations. They often work alongside electricians, building inspectors and fire safety professionals to help meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards and local building codes.
How to become one
To become a fire alarm technician, individuals typically need formal training from an electrical trade school program where they’ll learn wiring, installation, how to read blueprints, safety standards and more.
What makes a good candidate?
A strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills and knowledge of electrical circuits are essential. Those who excel in troubleshooting complex alarm systems, working with technology and ensuring public safety make great candidates for this electrical career.
Career outlook
These professionals typically work for or in the following environments:
- Building equipment contractors
- Healthcare
- Education
- Commercial real estate
4. Cable technician
A cable technician installs, maintains and repairs telecommunications systems, including internet, television and phone services, for residential and commercial properties. These technicians work with coaxial, fiber optic and Ethernet cables to maintain reliable connectivity.
Their job might include running and terminating cables, troubleshooting connectivity issues, configuring modems and routers, testing signal strength and repairing damaged lines.
Cable technicians often work both indoors and outdoors, setting up service lines for new customers, upgrading existing systems and ensuring compliance with telecommunication industry standards and safety regulations. They frequently interact with homeowners, business owners and network engineers.
How to become one
You can prepare to become a cable technician by attending a hands-on electrical program. The program should cover wiring, installation, troubleshooting techniques and configuration.
What makes a good candidate?
Successful cable technicians are personable individuals with strong problem-solving and communication skills. Those who enjoy working on the go, troubleshooting internet and TV connectivity issues, and can provide excellent customer service are well-suited for this career.
Career outlook
Cable techs usually work for:
- Telecommunications providers.
- Internet service companies.
- Home security and automation firms.
- Corporate IT and networking departments.
5. Security systems technician
A security systems technician works with security and surveillance systems for residential, commercial and industrial properties. These technicians keep security cameras, alarm systems, access control systems and motion detectors functioning properly.
Their job might include installing and configuring security cameras, setting up alarm monitoring systems, troubleshooting connectivity issues, integrating security systems with smart home automation, and ensuring compliance with security regulations.
How to become one
This career path typically requires technical training from an electrical or electronics program, where you can practice low-voltage electrical wiring, installation and troubleshooting.
What makes a good candidate?
These individuals might have an interest in public safety, alarm systems and surveillance while being detail-oriented, tech-savvy and excellent communicators.
Career outlook
Security technicians may find opportunities in:
- Home and business security companies.
- Government and law enforcement agencies.
- Corporate IT and security departments.
- Smart home automation companies.
6. Industrial maintenance technician
An industrial maintenance technician installs, maintains and repairs electrical and mechanical equipment used in manufacturing, production and industrial facilities. These professionals may work on conveyor systems, hydraulic and pneumatic equipment and electrical control systems.
Their job might include diagnosing electrical failures, performing routine maintenance on industrial machinery, troubleshooting PLC systems and calibrating sensors and motors.
How to become one
To pursue this type of electrical career, you’ll likely need to attend a hands-on program that teaches students about electrical systems, mechanical maintenance, hydraulics, pneumatics and more.
What makes a good candidate?
Industrial maintenance technicians have strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail. They may prefer working with their hands, enjoy learning how machines work and solving complex problems.
Career outlook
These pros are often found in manufacturing, commercial and industrial machinery and construction industries.
7. Wind turbine technician
A wind turbine technician works on mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems to ensure wind turbines operate efficiently and safely. As the demand for clean energy grows, wind turbine technicians play a critical role in expanding and maintaining the nation’s wind power infrastructure.
Their job might include climbing wind turbines to inspect and repair components, troubleshooting electrical and mechanical malfunctions, and performing routine maintenance on generators and control systems.
How to become one
You can gain the skills to become a wind turbine technician at a technical program. The program should teach students about renewable energy, electrical wiring, turbine operation, climbing and safety and more.
What makes a good candidate?
Successful wind turbine technicians develop strong mechanical and electrical skills and physical endurance. They’re also willing to work at great heights, be outdoors and travel to different locations. Some might call themselves an ‘adrenaline junkie.’
Those who excel in troubleshooting complex systems, show interest in renewable energy and know how to follow strict safety protocols are also well-suited for this career.
Career outlook
Wind turbine techs might work at:
- Wind farms.
- Utility and power generation companies.
- Wind turbine manufacturing and maintenance firms.
- Government and environmental agencies.
- Engineering firms specializing in clean energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best careers in electricity?
The best electrical career for you depends on your interests, unique talents and what you want from a career. There are several paths you can take, including becoming an electrical technician, robotics and automation technician, electrician’s assistant or wind turbine tech. When trying to decide which path to take, consider what kind of salary you want to earn, how fast you want to train, which environments you’re comfortable working in and other similar factors.
Do I need a degree for a career in electrical work?
No, but many employers require proof of technical training. An electrical trade school program like the one at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) can help set you up to pursue a rewarding career in the industry.130
How long does it take to start an electrical technician career?
Most electrical training programs last one to two years. At UTI, you can get career-ready in less than a year, and our Career Services team can even help you search for opportunities.
Prepare for Careers in Electrical at UTI
If you're ready to start a career in electricity, electrical or electronics, UTI offers specialized training that can help prepare you to pursue one. Request more information and an Admissions Rep will reach out to answer your questions about this career path.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.