2805 - Electrician

Federal Occupation Description

Federal Occupation Description

This standard is used to grade all nonsupervisory jobs involved in the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of electrical wiring systems, fixtures, controls, and equipment in industrial, institutional, office, and residential buildings, and on ships. These jobs require knowledge and application of electrical principles, materials, and safety standards.

For job opportunities in this series, go to the Office of Personnel Management USAJOBS website.

Other Federal Occupations

It is not uncommon for individuals in one federal occupational series to perform duties related to another series within the same federal occupational group. To find out about the certifications for another series in the ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE FAMILY, click on that series below. Note that credentials have not yet been identified for all series – links are provided only to those series for which the identification of credentials has been completed. Additional series will be added over time.

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This is an official U.S. Navy websiteUpdated: October 16, 2019
Click here to go to Associate Electronics Technician (CETa) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Associate Electronics Technician (CETa) certification is an entry-level credential for electronics technicians who have less than two years of experience or who have trade school training in the field of electronics. Applicants for the CETa must meet the experience or training requirement and pass the exam.

Click here to go to Computer Service Technician (CST) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Computer Service Technician (CST) is an entry-level credential for professionals who supply computer support. The CST exam assesses candidates’ skills in performing hardware servicing and system software skills for personal computers (PCs). CST candidates should have knowledge of PC components, operating systems, basic networking, troubleshooting, and safety procedures. Candidates must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Associate-Level COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET), Certified Electronics Technician - Associate-Level is an entry-level certification. This certification validates the candidate's basic electronic knowledge for entry-level electronic professions. The exam covers basic electronics, math, DC and AC circuits, transistors and troubleshooting. The Associate CET is also a pre-requisite for ISCET Journeyman level certifications. Candidates must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Communications COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Communications. This is an entry-level certification exam. Technicians working in this field will have knowledge in the following areas; communications which include 2-way transceivers and the servicing of these types of equipment. Also, Receiver's basic communication theory, transmitters, deviation, sensitivity, quieting and troubleshooting. Applicants must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Computer COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Computer Electronics. This is an entry-level certification exam. Technicians working in this field will have knowledge in the following areas; operation of computer systems with the greatest emphasis on the hardware, basic arithmetic and logic operations as related to computer theory, computer organization, input and output equipment, and memory and storage. The technician should have some knowledge of software and programming, and be able to explain troubleshooting procedures. Applicants must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Industrial COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Industrial. This is an entry-level certification exam. Technicians working in this field will have knowledge in the following areas; characteristics and applications of industrial electronics components, the operation of devices such as triacs, SCRs, diacs, and Shockley diodes. Also covered are various kinds of transducers, operation of transistors and op-amps, single-phase and three-phase control systems, motors, PLCs and industrial electronics safety and basic knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Applicants must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Medical COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Medical. This is an entry-level certification exam. Technicians working in this field will have knowledge in the following areas; Electrical safety and accuracy of calibration for electro medical instruments, plus the need for prompt in-house electronic service, are the priorities in this option. The applicant is expected to demonstrate a familiarity with the basic concepts and vocabulary of instrumentation, telemetry, measurements, differential amplifier and operational amplifier applications. Applicants must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Radar COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Radar. This is an entry-level certification exam. Technicians working in this field will have knowledge in the following areas; General knowledge of both pulse radar and continuous wave radar operation is necessary for taking this Journeyman option. This test covers transmitters and receivers, CRT display systems and their power supplies, antennas, transmission lines and their characteristics. Applicants must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to ALA Lighting Specialist COOL Snapshot page.

The ALA Lighting Specialist credential is an advanced accreditation earned by lighting sales and design professionals. The ALA Lighting credential exam focuses on light sources, light fixtures, residential lighting design and effective selling techniques.

Click here to go to Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM) COOL Snapshot page.

The Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM) posesses the professional expertise and knowledge required to successfully perform plant and facilities supervisory activities. Candidates must have a minimum of two years of experience in maintenance management. Candidates must also pass a written examination. Recertification occurs through earning at least five recertification credits every three years.

Click here to go to Certified Control Systems Technician - Level I (CCST-I) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

ISA's Certified Control Systems Technician Program (CCST) offers third-party recognition of technicians' knowledge and skills in automation and control. CCSTs calibrate, document, troubleshoot, and repair/replace instrumentation for systems that measure and control level, temperature, pressure, flow, and other process variables. CCST certifications are available at three levels, and each level requires the successful completion of an examination. The CCST examination is only one requirement for certification. The candidate must also meet minimum requirements comprised of work experience and education.

Click here to go to Certified Lighting Management Consultant (CLMC) COOL Snapshot page.

The International Association of Lighting Management Companies (NALMCO), Certified Lighting Management Consultant (CLMC) is an intermediate-career level credential for lighting management professionals. The CLMC program recognizes members of the lighting management industry who have demonstrated knowledge and technical expertise in their field. The CLMC is among the first professional certifications to be accepted by EPA’s ENERGY STAR.

Click here to go to Residential Electrical Inspector - E1 COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Residential Electrical Inspector is responsible for performing inspections of the installation or alteration of electrical systems indoors and outdoors including services, conductors, equipment, components, fixtures, appliances, devices, and electrical appurtenances for one- and two-family dwellings limited to 120/240 volts, single phase, up to 400 amperes. Candidates are required to pass a multiple-choice written exam with at least a 75%.

Click here to go to Data Cabling Installer (DCI) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Data Cabling Installer (DCI) certification is a Journeyman-level credential recommended for individuals a basic level of installer experience and training. DCIs are expected to understand the basic installation and service concepts of copper cabling, which are applicable to all the procedures required to safely and competently install communications cabling. Candidates must pass an exam.

Click here to go to Commercial Electrical Inspector - E2 COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The International Code Council (ICC), Commercial Electrical Inspector certification is a mid-level credential designed for professionals who perform inspections of the installation or alteration of electrical systems. Commercial Electrical Inspectors are expected to have the skills and knowledge necessary to assess the compliance with code and safety of indoor and outdoor electrical services, conductors, equipment, components, fixtures, appliances, devices, and electrical appurtenances for all types of buildings and structures, both commercial and industrial, with no limit as to voltage or amperage. There are no experience requirements, education requirements, or pre-requisites that must be met prior to taking the written exam; however, individuals seeking the Commercial Electrical Inspector certification should have technical knowledge and related experience in their chosen field of expertise.

Click here to go to Electrical Plans Examiner - E3 COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The International Code Council (ICC), Electrical Plans Examiner (E3) is responsible for reviewing plans, drawings, and specifications to determine code compliance for electrical installations or alterations of electrical systems indoors and outdoors including services, conductors, equipment, components, fixtures, appliances, devices, and electrical appurtenances for all types of buildings and structures (residential, commercial, and industrial) with no limit as to voltage or amperage. The Electrical Plans Examiner is also responsible for verification of load calculations and fault current calculations. Candidates for the E3 must pass the Electrical Plans Examiner test.

Click here to go to Industrial Electronics Technician (IND) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Industrial Electronics Technician (IND) certification is an intermediate journeyman-level credential for electronics technicians. Candidates applying for the IND certification are expected to understand basic industrial electronics concepts applicable to various specialty areas of industrial electronics; Additionally, candidates must meet minimum experience requirements of at least two years working in the industry, this may include electronics training. IND candidates must be knowledgeable and have skills in the following areas: Amplifiers, Optical Wiring, Block Diagrams Schematics, Power Supplies, Test Equipment Tools, Mathematics, Computers Digital Concepts, Safety, Satellite Wireless Data, Communications, Cabling, Troubleshooting, Motors, Programmable Logic Controllers, and Software. Candidate must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Calibration Technician (CCT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Certified Calibration Technician (CCT) tests, calibrates, maintains and repairs electrical, mechanical, electromechanical, analytical and electronic measuring, recording and indicating instruments and equipment for conformance to established standards. Candidate must have five years of on-the-job experience in one or more of the areas of the Certified Calibration Technician Body of Knowledge (If the candidate has completed a degree from a college, university, or technical school with accreditation accepted by ASQ, part of the five-year experience requirement will be waived). Candidate must pass a written examination.

Click here to go to Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Certified Maintenance and Reliability Technician (CMRT) is an entry-level certification. CMRT will provide a non-biased, third-party, objective assessment and confirmation of the skills of your industrial maintenance mechanics. CMRT's are responsible for preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance. They perform troubleshooting and analysis, and apply sound maintenance practices in all aspects of their work. CMRTs are multi-skilled individuals whose expertise is primarily mechanical in nature as opposed to instrumentation or electrical. The CMRT exam tests competency and knowledge of specific tasks within four (4) domains: Maintenance Practices, Preventative and Predictive Maintenance, Troubleshooting and Analysis, and Corrective Maintenance. There are no specific education or experience requirements to sit for the exam.

Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Consumer Electronics COOL Snapshot page.

Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Consumer Electronics. This is an entry-level certification exam. Technicians working in this field will have knowledge in the following areas; antennas and transmission lines, digital and linear circuits in consumer electronics, servicing problems on televisions and VCRs, use of test equipment, and troubleshooting consumer products. Applicants must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to LEED AP Operations + Maintenance (LEED AP O+M) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

The Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), LEED AP Operations + Maintenance (LEED AP O+M) credential is for professionals implementing sustainable practices, improving performance, heightening efficiency and reducing environmental impact in existing buildings through enhanced operations and maintenance. LEED AP O+M candidates must be at least 18 years of age, hold a current LEED Green Associate credential, and pass a written exam. Prior LEED project experience is strongly recommended.

Click here to go to Electrical Generator Systems Technician Certification - Journeyman COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

Electrical Generating Systems Association (EGSA), Electrical Generator Systems Technician Certification - Journeyman identifies technicians who not only have a broad knowledge of electricity, mechanical and electrical components and the interaction between them, but are proficient in the installation, service, maintenance, and repair of On-Site Power generation systems. Applicants should have a comprehensive knowledge of basic electricity, the functions of a gen-set’s mechanical and electrical components, the interactions and relationships among components and an understanding of various elements of the installation, service, maintenance, and repair of gen-sets and On-Site Power generation systems. Applicants must have a minimum of three years of experience as an electrical power generator equipment technician and pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Electrical Power Testing - Level I COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET), Electrical Power Testing - Level I credential is an entry-level certification for electrical technicians who test equipment used in the production, transmission, and distribution of electrical power. The certification validates a technician’s knowledge required to inspect, test and maintain electrical power equipment. Electrical Power Testing - Level I technicians work under the supervision of a higher-level technician and performs duties such as isolating and ground power equipment safely; connecting test equipment; and conducting and documenting standard tests of basic single-function equipment. Candidates are required to have minimum of one year of practical experience supporting testing and maintenance of electrical power equipment, including basic electrical safety procedures and must pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Electrical Power Testing - Level II COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET), Electrical Power Testing - Level II credential is a mid-level certification for electrical technicians who test equipment used in the production, transmission, and distribution of electrical power. The certification validates knowledge required to inspect, test and maintain electrical power equipment. The Electrical Power Testing - Level II technicians work under general supervision and perform duties including, isolate and ground power equipment safely; connect test equipment; and conduct and document standard tests of basic (single-function) equipment. To earn this certification candidates are required to have minimum of two years of practical experience in the inspection, testing, and maintenance of electrical power equipment and pass a written exam.

Click here to go to Certified Professional Supervisor (CPS) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Basic Electricity and Electronics - Alternating Current (BEE-AC) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Basic Electricity and Electronics - Alternating Current (BEE-AC) certification is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. The exam tests applicant's hands-on troubleshooting skills utilizing a multi-meter, function generator, and oscilloscope along with an electronic trainer and test cards. The certification validates applicant's knowledge of various AC theories, equipment, math, cabling, and other related subjects. Applicants have different options to meet the eligibility requirements, active duty or veteran military personnel whose rating or assignment is/was in the related field meet the eligibility requirement for BEE-AC certification.

Click here to go to Basic Electricity and Electronics - Direct Current (BEE-DC) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Basic Electricity and Electronics - Direct Current (BEE-DC) certification is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. The exam tests applicant's hands-on troubleshooting skills and validates applicant's knowledge of basic electrical theory, magnetism, electrical safety, electronic equipment and components laws, circuits and other related subjects. Applicants have different options to meet the eligibility requirements, active duty or veteran military personnel whose rating or assignment is/was in the related field meet the eligibility requirement for BEE-DC certification.

Click here to go to Basic Electricity and Electronics - Analog (BEE-A) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Basic Electricity and Electronics - Analog (BEE-A) certification is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. The exam tests applicant's hands-on troubleshooting skills and validates applicant's knowledge of various analog components, electronics, power, and other related subjects. Applicants have different options to meet the eligibility requirements, active duty or veteran military personnel whose rating or assignment is/was in the related field meet the eligibility requirement for BEE-A certification.

Click here to go to Basic Electricity and Electronics - Digital (BEE-D) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The Basic Electricity and Electronics - Digital (BEE-D) certification is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. The exam tests applicant's hands-on troubleshooting skills and validates applicant's knowledge of various digital electricity and electronics theories, safety precautions, conversions, diagrams, and other related subjects. Applicants have different options to meet the eligibility requirements, active duty or veteran military personnel whose rating or assignment is/was in the related field meet the eligibility requirement for BEE-D certification.

Click here to go to Student Electronics Technician (SET) COOL Snapshot page.

Credential description coming soon.

Click here to go to Electric Vehicle Technician (EVT) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Electric Vehicle Technician (EVT) is an intermediate-level credential for professionals who work on vehicles powered solely by electricity and perform routine maintenance. Electric Vehicle Technicians must have extensive knowledge of how lithium-ion batteries and automotive systems interact and how to replace hydraulically assisted systems with electric–powered systems, such as power-steering pumps or air-conditioning compressors, to improve fuel economy. Though ETA-I does not require any specific training, education or experience to earn the EVT certification, candidates are strongly encouraged to have the requisite knowledge and experience necessary to challenge the exam.

Click here to go to Electronics Associate DC (EM1) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate DC (EM1) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of various electrical and electronics concepts, electronic measurement equipment, electronic components, circuitry, and other related subjects specific to direct current (DC) electronics. The EM1 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.

Click here to go to Electronics Associate AC (EM2) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate AC (EM2) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of AC, safety, cabling, and other procedures. The EM2 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.

Click here to go to Electronics Associate Analog (EM3) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate Analog (EM3) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of diodes, transistors, thyristors, integrated circuits, optoelectronic devices, power supplies, basic test equipment and measurements, mathematics and formulas, amplifiers, and other related subjects. The EM3 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.

Click here to go to Electronics Associate Digital (EM4) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate Digital (EM4) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of various digital electricity and electronics concepts, numbering systems and conversions, and other related subjects. The EM4 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.

Click here to go to Electronics Associate Comprehensive (EM5) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate Comprehensive (EM5) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of soldering, desoldering, tools, electrical conductors, AC power distribution, circuit protection, circuit controls, generators, motors, interfacing of electronics products, and technician work procedures. The EM5 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.

Click here to go to Electrical Generator Systems Technician Certification - Apprentice COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The Electrical Generator Systems Technician Certification - Apprentice credential is an entry-level certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge of on-site power generation equipment and systems. The Apprentice level exam provides technical college students, recent graduates, military personnel and other 1st or 2nd-year technicians with proof that the basic skill set has been met. The certification exam is written to assess knowledge that is necessary for proficient job performance. The exam includes questions about electricity and other topics relevant to the field of electrical generator systems.

In Demand

This certification is considered in demand

GI Bill®

Reimbursement for exam fees has been approved for payment through the GI Bill. Click for external link to GI Bill licensing and certification information.

Note: GI Bill approval data is updated quarterly. For the latest information, visit the WEAMS Licenses/Certifications Search page. Make sure to select "Both" in the LAC Category Type drop-down before searching.

Click here to go to the GI Bill site.

ANSI

This credential has been accredited by ANSI. Click for external link to the ANSI web site.

ICAC

This credential has been accredited by ICAC. Click for external link to the ICAC web site.

NCCA

This credentialing program has been accredited by NCCA. Click for external link to the NCCA web site.

ABSNC

This credential has been accredited by ABSNC. Click for external link to the ABSNC web site.

IAS

This credential has been accredited by IAS. Click for external link to the IAS web site.

Some

Credential is related to some tasks associated with the duties of the rating (at least one critical task but less than 80%)

Most

Credential is directly related to most of the major duties associated with the rating (at least 80%)

Other

Credential is related to this military occupation, but is more advanced or specialized and therefore will likely require additional education, training, or experience

Most – Tasks in these careers match most duties of the military job or specialty (approximately 80% or greater)
Some – Tasks in these careers match some duties of the military job or specialty (greater than 20% but less than 80%)
Bright Outlook – new job opportunities are very likely in the future for this job
Registered Apprenticeship
Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers
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Click here for the external link to: My Next Move for Veterans - Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment
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