To work as an electrician helper, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent; and
• complete short-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

No formal education is required beyond high school. However, you can prepare to work in this occupation by taking courses. Professional-technical schools and two-year colleges offer useful courses. For example, you could take courses in electronics, electricity, general math, and drafting.

On-the-job training

Almost all electrician helpers receive informal on-the-job training from an experienced worker. During training, you learn to:

• handle materials and tools; and
• clean the work area and equipment.

Training generally lasts about one month.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be building electricians. Training lasts from eight to 12 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.