Transportation Electrical Installers
Transportation electrical installers perform tasks such as installing, adjusting and maintaining mobile electronic communication equipment including sonar, sound, navigation and surveillance equipment utilized in vehicles, watercraft and trains.
Some sample job titles include marine electrician, critical systems technician, electronic bench technician, radio technician and locomotive electrician.
Responsibilities
- Show customers how the equipment is used
- Reassemble and test equipment after repairs are done
- Inspect and test electrical equipment and systems to find and diagnose malfunctions
- Install electrical cables, power sources and new fuses when required
- Install frameworks and conduit to support and connect wiring, control panels and junction boxes
- Test newly installed equipment
Job Characteristics
Transportation electrical installers may have to lift heavy equipment. They typically work indoors in well-lighted and well-ventilated repair shops. They should be detailed oriented, have good color perception and eyesight.
Employment Outlook
The employment growth rate for electrical and electronics installers and repairers of transportation equipment is projected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to grow by 4 percent which is slower than average for all occupations.
In 2006 the median hourly wage for electrical and electronics installers and repairers of transportation equipment was $20.72. The highest paid 10 percent earned over $28.78 per hour.
Candidates with certification, an associate degree in electronics and related experience will have the best job opportunities. Those with certification may receive additional responsibilities and higher pay. Those with leadership abilities may become supervisors. In 2006 there were an estimated 21,000 people employed in electrical and electronics installers and repairers of transportation equipment jobs.
Education, Certification, and Licensing
Employers often prefer applicants with an associate degree in electronics and professional certification is often necessary. Various professional and educational organizations provide certification. Typically candidates must pass an exam demonstrating their level of expertise.
Resources
Major Employers
Some of the top employers are shipyards, the maritime industry, electrical and electronic equipment installation services companies, rapid transit systems and railroads.
Schools for Transportation Electrical Installers And Repairers are listed in the Browse Schools Section.
