Master Electrician vs. Electrical Contractor: What Are the Differences?

A career in the electrical field can be both exciting and rewarding. Two common positions in this industry are that of a master electrician and an electrical contractor. Though both roles are important, there are several key differences between them.

In this article, we discuss the differences between a master electrician and an electrical contractor, and we provide additional information about working in the electrical field.

What is a Master Electrician?

A Master Electrician is a highly skilled and experienced professional who installs, maintains and repairs electrical systems. They work in a variety of settings, including homes, businesses, factories and power plants. Master Electricians are responsible for ensuring that electrical work is completed safely and up to code. They often oversee the work of apprentices and other electricians. In some cases, Master Electricians may also be responsible for designing electrical systems for new construction projects.

What is an Electrical Contractor?

An Electrical Contractor is a professional who installs and repairs electrical systems. They may work in both commercial and residential settings. Electrical Contractors install wiring and other electrical components in new construction projects. They also troubleshoot and repair electrical issues in existing buildings. Electrical Contractors must be able to read and understand blueprints and other technical drawings. They also use a variety of hand and power tools to complete their work. Electrical Contractors must follow all local, state and national electrical codes to ensure the safety of their work.

Master Electrician vs. Electrical Contractor

Here are the main differences between a master electrician and an electrical contractor.

Job Duties

One of the biggest differences between a master electrician and an electrical contractor is the type of job duties they have. Electrical contractors are responsible for managing a project from start to finish, which may include finding clients, designing projects, hiring employees and overseeing installation. Master electricians may or may not work as electrical contractors, but their job duties are more focused on client service and ensuring installations are completed properly.

As an electrical contractor, you may be responsible for completing jobs like installing wiring, repairing existing systems or creating schematics for new locations. As a master electrician, your job duties may involve providing maintenance services to current clients or troubleshooting issues with installations.

Job Requirements

Master electricians typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require an associate degree in electrical technology. They also need to complete an apprenticeship program that lasts four to five years. During their apprenticeship, they learn how to read blueprints, install wiring and troubleshoot electrical problems. After completing their apprenticeship, master electricians can take a licensing exam to become certified.

Electrical contractors also need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. In addition, they must complete an apprenticeship program that lasts three to five years. During their apprenticeship, they learn how to read blueprints, install wiring and troubleshoot electrical problems. After completing their apprenticeship, electrical contractors can take a licensing exam to become certified.

Work Environment

Electrical contractors often work in construction environments, where they may be exposed to loud noises and heavy machinery. They also travel frequently to different job sites, which can involve long hours of driving or flying. Electrical contractors typically work full time during regular business hours, but overtime is common when projects are behind schedule.

Master electricians usually work in residential settings, such as homes and apartments. They may also work in commercial buildings like schools and hospitals. Master electricians spend most of their time on the job working with electrical equipment, so it’s important that they wear protective gear while on the job. These professionals typically work full time during regular business hours, but overtime is sometimes necessary for completing projects.

Skills

There are several similarities between the skills needed for a master electrician and an electrical contractor. Both need to have excellent problem-solving skills to be able to troubleshoot issues quickly and efficiently. They also both need to have strong technical skills to be able to understand complex electrical systems.

However, there are some key differences in the skills needed for these two jobs. A master electrician needs to have advanced knowledge of electrical codes and regulations to ensure that they are always up to date on the latest standards. They also need to be able to manage a team of electricians, which requires leadership skills and the ability to delegate tasks effectively.

An electrical contractor does not need to have the same level of technical expertise as a master electrician, but they do need to be able to estimate project costs accurately and manage a budget. They also need to be able to develop relationships with clients and sell their services.

Salary

The average salary for a master electrician is $73,560 per year. The average salary for an electrical contractor is $70,345 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the type of work you’re doing, your location and your experience level.