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Inspect, test, repair, or maintain electrical equipment in generating stations, substations, and in-service relays.
Color vision. Electrical and electronics installers and repairers must be able to identify the color-coded components that are often used in electronic equipment.
Communication skills. Electrical and electronics installers and repairers work closely with customers, so they must listen to and understand customers’ descriptions of problems and explain solutions in a simple, clear manner.
Physical stamina. Some electrical and electronics installers and repairers must stand at their station for their full shift, which can be tiring.
Physical strength. Electrical and electronics installers and repairers may need to lift heavy parts during the repair process. Some components weigh over 50 pounds.
Technical skills. Electrical and electronics installers and repairers use a variety of mechanical and diagnostic tools to install or repair equipment.
Troubleshooting skills. Electrical and electronics installers and repairers must be able to identify problems with equipment and systems and make the necessary repairs.
| A3 | Your Strengths | Importance |
Characteristics of this Career |
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93% | Attention to Detail - Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks. | |
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90% | Analytical Thinking - Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems. | |
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86% | Cooperation - Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude. | |
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85% | Dependability - Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations. | |
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85% | Integrity - Job requires being honest and ethical. | |
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84% | Adaptability/Flexibility - Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace. | |
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83% | Initiative - Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges. | |
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80% | Stress Tolerance - Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations. | |
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80% | Persistence - Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles. | |
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79% | Achievement/Effort - Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks. | |
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79% | Independence - Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done. | |
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78% | Concern for Others - Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job. | |
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77% | Leadership - Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction. | |
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77% | Self-Control - Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations. | |
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74% | Innovation - Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems. | |
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67% | Social Orientation - Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job. |
| A3 | Your Strengths | Importance |
Strengths |
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95% | Realistic - Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services. |
| A3 | Your Strengths | Importance |
Values of the Work Environment |
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78% | Support - Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical. | |
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67% | Independence - Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy. |
| A3 | Your Strengths | Importance |
Abilities | Cognitive, Physical, Personality |
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72% | Near Vision - The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer). | |
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69% | Oral Comprehension - The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences. | |
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69% | Problem Sensitivity - The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem. | |
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69% | Arm-Hand Steadiness - The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position. | |
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66% | Written Comprehension - The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. | |
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66% | Oral Expression - The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand. |
| A3 | Your Strengths | Importance |
Attributes & Percentage of Time Spent |
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100% | Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets - How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets? | |
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97% | Face-to-Face Discussions - How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job? | |
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94% | Importance of Being Exact or Accurate - How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job? | |
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93% | Contact With Others - How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it? | |
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90% | Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable - How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable? | |
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90% | Work With Work Group or Team - How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job? | |
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89% | Consequence of Error - How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable? | |
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88% | Physical Proximity - To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people? | |
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88% | Responsible for Others' Health and Safety - How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job? | |
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86% | Coordinate or Lead Others - How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job? | |
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86% | Telephone - How often do you have telephone conversations in this job? | |
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86% | Electronic Mail - How often do you use electronic mail in this job? | |
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85% | Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results - What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer? | |
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83% | Outdoors, Exposed to Weather - How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions? | |
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81% | Exposed to Hazardous Conditions - How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions? | |
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80% | Very Hot or Cold Temperatures - How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures? | |
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80% | Importance of Repeating Same Tasks - How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job? | |
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79% | Time Pressure - How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines? | |
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79% | Frequency of Decision Making - How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization? | |
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78% | Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls - How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls? | |
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78% | Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled - How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)? | |
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75% | Exposed to Contaminants - How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)? | |
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74% | Exposed to Hazardous Equipment - How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment? | |
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73% | Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting - How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions? | |
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72% | Indoors, Environmentally Controlled - How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions? | |
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68% | Spend Time Standing - How much does this job require standing? | |
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67% | Responsibility for Outcomes and Results - How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers? | |
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67% | Structured versus Unstructured Work - To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals? | |
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65% | Exposed to High Places - How often does this job require exposure to high places? | |
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67% | Duration of Typical Work Week - Number of hours typically worked in one week. |
| A3 | Your Strengths | Importance |
Tasks & Values |
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85% | Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment - Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles. | |
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84% | Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events - Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events. | |
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83% | Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials - Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects. | |
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82% | Making Decisions and Solving Problems - Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems. | |
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81% | Getting Information - Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. | |
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80% | Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings - Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems. | |
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77% | Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge - Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. | |
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76% | Documenting/Recording Information - Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form. | |
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75% | Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards - Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards. | |
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74% | Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment - Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles. | |
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73% | Working with Computers - Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information. | |
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73% | Controlling Machines and Processes - Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles). | |
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71% | Processing Information - Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data. | |
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71% | Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates - Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person. | |
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71% | Analyzing Data or Information - Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts. | |
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65% | Performing General Physical Activities - Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials. |
Electrical and electronics installers and repairers install or repair a variety of electrical equipment in transportation, utilities, and other industries.
Electrical and electronics installers and repairers typically do the following:
Modern manufacturing plants and transportation systems use a large amount of electrical and electronics equipment, from assembly line motors to sonar systems. Electrical and electronics installers and repairers fix and maintain these complex pieces of equipment.
Because automated electronic control systems are becoming more complex, repairers use software programs and testing equipment to diagnose malfunctions. Among their diagnostic tools are multimeters—which measure voltage, current, and resistance—and advanced multimeters, which measure the capacitance, inductance, and current gain of transistors.
Repairers also use signal generators, which provide test signals, and oscilloscopes, which display signals graphically. In addition, repairers often use hand tools such as pliers, screwdrivers, and wrenches to replace faulty parts and adjust equipment.
The following are examples of types of electrical and electronics installers and repairers:
Commercial and industrial electrical and electronics equipment repairers adjust, test, repair, or install electronic equipment, such as industrial controls, transmitters, and antennas.
Electric motor, power tool, and related repairers—such as armature winders, generator mechanics, and electric golf cart repairers—specialize in installing, maintaining, and repairing electric motors, wiring, or switches.
Electrical and electronics installers and repairers of transportation equipment install, adjust, or maintain mobile communication equipment, including sound, sonar, security, navigation, and surveillance systems on trains, watercraft, or other vehicles.
Electronic equipment installers and repairers of motor vehicles install, diagnose, and repair sound, security, and navigation equipment in motor vehicles. These installers and repairers work with a range of complex electronic equipment, including digital audio and video players, navigation systems, and passive and active security systems.
Powerhouse, substation, and relay electrical and electronics repairers inspect, test, maintain, or repair electrical equipment used in generating stations, substations, and in-service relays. These workers also may be known as powerhouse electricians, relay technicians, or power transformer repairers.
Electrical and electronics installers and repairers held about 113,300 jobs in 2022. Employment in the detailed occupations that make up electrical and electronics installers and repairers was distributed as follows:
| Electrical and electronics repairers, commercial and industrial equipment | 53,600 |
| Electrical and electronics repairers, powerhouse, substation, and relay | 26,100 |
| Electric motor, power tool, and related repairers | 16,100 |
| Electronic equipment installers and repairers, motor vehicles | 9,700 |
| Electrical and electronics installers and repairers, transportation equipment | 7,900 |
The largest employers of electrical and electronics installers and repairers were as follows:
| Manufacturing | 16% |
| Utilities | 15 |
| Wholesale trade | 10 |
| Repair and maintenance | 9 |
| Federal government, excluding postal service | 8 |
Many electrical and electronics installers and repairers work in repair shops or in factories, and some may work outside when they travel to job sites.
Installers and repairers may have to lift heavy equipment and work in awkward positions. They spend most of their day walking, standing, or kneeling.
The majority of electrical and electronics installers and repairers work full time.
Electrical and electronics installers and repairers need at least a high school education, but most specializations require further preparation through advanced education, work experience, or both.
Electrical and electronics installers and repairers must understand electrical equipment and electronics. As a result, employers often prefer applicants who have taken courses in electronics at a community college or technical school. Courses usually cover AC and DC electronics, electronic devices, and microcontrollers. It is important for prospects to choose schools that include hands-on training in order to gain practical experience.
In addition to technical education, workers usually receive training on specific types of equipment. This may involve manufacturer-specific training for repairers who will perform warranty work.
Before working independently, entry-level repairers usually develop their skills while working with experienced technicians who provide technical guidance.
Some electrical and electronics installers and repairers need prior work experience. Electric motor, power tool, and related repairers typically begin by helping in machine or electrical workshops, where they gain experience with tools and motors.
Powerhouse, substation, and relay electrical and electronics repairers often gain experience by first working as electricians.
While certification is not required, a number of organizations offer it, and it can be useful in getting a job. For example, the Electronics Technicians Association International (ETA International) offers more than 50 certification programs in numerous electronics specialties for various levels of competency. The International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET) also offers certification for several levels of competence. The ISCET focuses on a broad range of topics, including basic electronics, electronic systems, and appliance service. To become certified, applicants must meet prerequisites and pass a comprehensive exam.
Overall employment of electrical and electronics installers and repairers is projected to decline 2 percent from 2022 to 2032.
Despite declining employment, about 9,100 openings for electrical and electronics installers and repairers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. All of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Projected employment of electrical and electronics installers and repairers varies by occupation (see table).
Over the projections decade, improvements in electrical and electronics equipment design and increased use of disposable tool parts are expected to dampen the need for electrical and electronics equipment installers and repairers.
Upgrades to transportation electronics systems, such as those on trains, buses, and ships, will support some demand for installers and repairers of this equipment.
Motor vehicle manufacturers continue to install and integrate high-quality sound, security, entertainment, and navigation systems in new vehicles. In addition, smartphones offer many features previously installed directly in vehicles. These consumer offerings reduce demand for installing aftermarket products and for repairing high-quality systems, which is expected to limit the need for electrical and electronics installers and repairers.
For more information about electrical and electronics installers and repairers, including careers and certification, visit
This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of electrical and electronics installers and repairers.
| Occupation | Job Duties | Entry-Level Education | Median Annual Pay, May 2022 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Electricians |
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems. |
High school diploma or equivalent | $60,240 |
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Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians |
Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians repair and perform scheduled maintenance on aircraft. |
See How to Become One | $70,740 |
|
Telecommunications Technicians |
Telecommunications technicians install, maintain, and repair radio, internet, and other telecommunications infrastructure. |
See How to Become One | $60,190 |
|
Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers |
Elevator and escalator installers and repairers install, maintain, and fix elevators, escalators, moving walkways, and other lifts. |
High school diploma or equivalent | $99,000 |
|
General Maintenance and Repair Workers |
General maintenance and repair workers fix and maintain machines, mechanical equipment, and buildings. |
High school diploma or equivalent | $44,980 |
|
Electrical and Electronics Engineers |
Electrical engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the manufacture of electrical equipment. |
Bachelor's degree | $104,610 |
|
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians |
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians help engineers design and develop equipment that is powered by electricity or electric current. |
Associate's degree | $66,390 |
|
Industrial Machinery Mechanics, Machinery Maintenance Workers, and Millwrights |
Industrial machinery mechanics, machinery maintenance workers, and millwrights install, maintain, and repair factory equipment and other industrial machinery. |
High school diploma or equivalent | $59,470 |