Electrical Test Technician (Utilities)
Also posted as Electrical Tester; Utility Test Technician; Electric Test Technician; Meter and Test Technician; High-Voltage Test Technician
An electrical test technician performs field and laboratory testing, calibration, diagnostics, acceptance testing, and repair of utility electrical equipment, meters, protective devices, instruments, and safety equipment. Most people enter through a paid apprenticeship or utility trainee program rather than a four-year degree.
Below: what it pays, what you'd do, the skills you need, and how to become one.
The role profile
Everything you need to know about this role, the same details employers use to post openings and colleges use to build training.
How much does it pay?
Explore the core responsibilities of this role, from daily operations and equipment handling to safety, quality, and performance requirements.
Test electrical apparatus
Test, calibrate, diagnose, and repair high- and low-voltage electrical and electronic equipment.
Run acceptance testing
Perform acceptance, maintenance, insulation, ratio, timing, current, voltage, and functional tests.
Test protection and metering
Test meters, instrument transformers, protective relays, transformers, switchgear, and control circuits.
Certify protective tools
Inspect and test rubber protective equipment, hot sticks, detectors, and specialized tools.
What skills do you need?
Three core skills sit at the heart of this role. You can learn all of them through short, hands-on training.
Electrical Test Methods
Applying utility test methods and diagnostics to apparatus.
Insulation Testing
Testing high-voltage apparatus and insulation systems.
Meter & CT/PT Testing
Testing meters and instrument transformer circuits.
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