Journeyman electricians assemble, install, maintain, and test electrical equipment and wiring systems in commercial, industrial, and residential settings. 

The journeyman is responsible for all aspects of the installation beginning with planning the project. The blueprints and the job specifications must be reviewed so that the material orders can be placed and the work layout determined. Temporary power needs must be established during the initial construction phases.

The entire power distribution system from the electrical service to the individual lighting circuits must be determined and installed according to the local or national electrical codes. Raceway systems or conduit must be installed. Skill is required in the placement and installation of conduit. Formulas are used and calculations must be made for the proper installation of saddles, offsets, and 90 degree bends. The conduit may also have to be cut, reamed, threaded, and fit into place, plumb and level. Hand benders and hydraulic power benders may be used depending on the size and type of conduit installed. All support hanger systems for the conduit are installed by the electrician.

The entire wiring system is installed by the electrician, from the largest power cables to the smallest control wiring. Proper wire size and pulling techniques are required so that the cable or wire is not damaged, causing a serious electrical hazard. Cables and wires may be pulled into the raceway system by machine or by hand depending on the job requirements.

All devices are wired by the electrician. Communication systems, transformers, motor control systems, programmable controllers, instruments, lighting fixtures, receptacles, etc. must be assembled, installed and wired according to the electrical code. Circuit loads must be balanced, amperages must be determined so that the wires are carrying the proper amount of current. Each piece of equipment or fixture must be in proper working order, if not, the electrician must find the problem by troubleshooting (analyzing the problem to find the solution).

At all times the safety of the electrician and the construction crew must be a top priority. Electrical construction can be hazardous occupation. Safety is an important aspect for the contractor as well as the worker. Job safety meetings and training through the apprenticeship and journeyman programs are essential tools for every electrician.

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