Electrical mechanics

Overview

Electrical mechanics maintain, test, rebuild and repair electric motors, transformers, switchgear and other electrical apparatus. They are employed by independent electrical repair shops, service shops of electrical equipment manufacturers and maintenance departments of manufacturing companies. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.

This group performs some or all of the following duties:

  • Test and observe electrical, electronic and mechanical components and systems using testing and measuring instruments

  • Troubleshoot and repair electric motors, transformers, switchgear, generators and other electro-mechanical equipment

  • Replace or recondition shafts, bearings, commutators and other components

  • Wind, assemble and install various types of coils for electric motors or transformers

  • Perform static or dynamic balancing of armatures or rotors by welding, brazing or soldering electrical connections and by aligning and adjusting parts

  • Test and repair or replace faulty wiring or components in electrical switchgear

  • Test repaired motors, transformers, switchgear or other electrical apparatus to ensure proper performance

  • Perform some machining to recondition or modify shafts, commutators or other parts

  • Perform on-site servicing and repair.

  • Electrical mechanics may specialize in working with certain types of apparatus, such as electric motors or transformers, or in performing certain functions, such as winding coils.

Job titles

  • armature repairman/woman
  • armature winder repairer
  • automotive-generator and starter repairer
  • circuit breaker mechanic
  • coil connector repairer
  • coil winder and repairer

Employment prospects

Source: BC Labour Market Outlook 2024 edition

Annual salary

Low

$45,675

Median

$80,129

High

$119,192

Job openings

Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.

British Columbia

70

expected job openings (5-year forecast)

Education and training

Employment requirements

  • Completion of secondary school and training courses or a vocational program is usually required.

  • Completion of a four-year apprenticeship program or A combination of over four years of work experience and industry courses in electrical mechanics is usually required for trade certification.

  • Trade certification as an electric motor system technician is available, but voluntary, in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, British Columbia, the Yukon and Nunavut.

Additional information

  • The Red Seal endorsement allows for interprovincial mobility.

  • Although specialization may occur, workers in this unit group are required to be proficient in repairing all electrical apparatus.

  • Progression to supervisory positions is possible with experience.

Certification requirements

Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Electrical mechanics in B.C.

  • Skilled Trades Certification - Electrical Mechanics

Skilled Trades Certification - Electrical Mechanics

Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.

To work as an electrical mechanic or winder electrician in B.C., you may need a SkilledTradesBC certification demonstrating that you have completed the necessary technical training and work experience part of your apprenticeship program.

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Post-secondary programs in B.C.

No programs available in B.C.

There are currently no programs offered at public post-secondary institutions in B.C. that will qualify you for this career. Please see the SkilledTradesBC website for other options.

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