Electrician Technician: 15 Essential Electrician Tools to Have

If you’re pursuing a career as an electrician technician, equipping yourself with the right tools is crucial. Not only do the proper electrician tools make your job more efficient, but they also help ensure your safety on the job. 

In the Electrical, Electronics, & Industrial Technology (EEIT) program offered at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), students aspiring to work in the electrical field can gain hands-on training with the same tools that professionals use in the industry.¹³⁰ 

In this guide, we’ll cover 15 essential electrical tools every electrician technician should have in their toolbox, and why each one plays a vital role in the trade. If you enroll in the EEIT program, you’ll likely see these when you’re progressing through courses and lab work! 

Tape Measure

 A tape measure is one of the most basic yet indispensable electrician tools. Accurate measurements are needed for installing conduit, placing outlet boxes and cutting wires to the correct length. 

Variety of Pliers 

A variety of reliable pliers are essential for gripping, bending, twisting and cutting wire. Lineman’s pliers are perfect for heavy-duty tasks, needle-nose pliers help in tight spaces, and diagonal-cutting pliers are great for snipping wires cleanly. Every job may require a different type of grip or cut, making it important to have a variety of options in your toolkit. 

Wide Range of Screwdrivers 

Electrician technicians regularly encounter a variety of screws and fasteners. Like with pliers, having a wide range of screwdrivers, including flathead, Phillips and multi-bit options, is important. This allows you to remove and install faceplates, outlet covers and light fixtures quickly and efficiently. 

Level 

Precision is key when installing panels, boxes or conduit. A level helps ensure your installations are straight and properly aligned, which is important not only for aesthetics but also for safety and functionality. 

Battery-Powered Drill 

A battery-powered drill is a time-saver on almost every electrical job. Whether you're drilling holes for wiring or fastening equipment to walls, a cordless drill with a variety of bits helps you work quickly and efficiently without needing to hunt for an outlet. 

Various Wire Strippers 

Wire strippers are used to remove the insulation from electrical wires without damaging the conductors. Having various wire strippers allows you to handle different wire gauges, which is crucial for safe, clean connections. 

Voltage Tester 

Safety is a top priority for any electrician technician. A voltage tester allows you to quickly check whether a wire or circuit is live, helping prevent accidental shocks and making it easier to troubleshoot electrical problems. 

Fish Tape 

Running wire through walls, conduit or other hard-to-reach spaces? Fish tape is an essential electrical tool. It’s designed to pull wire through enclosed spaces without damage, saving you time and reducing frustration during complex installations. 

Conduit Bender 

When working with conduit, a conduit bender helps you shape the pipe to fit around corners and obstacles while maintaining the required angles. Proper conduit bends ensure safe, code-compliant installations and clean-looking jobs. 

Reaming Bit 

A reaming bit is attached to a drill and used to smooth the inside edges of conduit after cutting. This prevents sharp edges that can damage wire insulation and helps ensure smoother wire pulls. 

Electrical Tape 

Electrical tape is more than just a way to hold wires together. It insulates and protects connections from moisture and abrasion. It’s a must-have for wrapping wire splices and marking wires for identification. 

Circuit Finder 

Troubleshooting circuits can be tricky without the right tools. A circuit finder helps you identify which breaker controls a specific outlet or fixture, streamlining repairs and reducing guesswork. 

Flashlight 

A dependable flashlight is essential when working in dark spaces like attics, crawl spaces or unlit rooms. A headlamp can be especially useful, as it keeps your hands free while you work. 

Safety Glasses 

Electrician technicians are frequently exposed to flying debris, sparks and dust. Safety glasses protect your eyes during drilling, cutting and other tasks, making them a vital part of your personal protective equipment (PPE). 

Insulated Gloves 

To protect yourself from electrical shocks, especially when working near live circuits, insulated gloves are crucial. These gloves are designed to withstand high voltages and should always be worn when working with or near energized components. 

Prepare for a Career in The Electrical Field with UTI 

Now that you know the essential electrical tools for the trade, it’s time to take the next step toward your future. 

Our EEIT program helps prepare students with the hands-on training and knowledge they need to start an entry-level career as an electrician technician. 

It’s easy to get started. Enroll today!