What’s the difference between an electrical contractor and an electrician?

Electrical contractor vs. electrician—the two terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Understanding the distinction is important when hiring the right professional for your electrical project, whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial.

Quick Summary:

  • An electrician is a licensed tradesperson who performs hands-on electrical work.

  • An electrical contractor is a business or individual that manages and oversees electrical projects—often employing electricians to complete the labor.

Let’s break down the differences in more detail:

Electrician: The Hands-On Expert

Focus:
Electricians are skilled tradespeople trained to install, repair, and maintain electrical systems. They work directly with wiring, fixtures, panels, and electrical devices.

Typical Tasks:

  • Installing outlets, lighting, and circuit breakers

  • Troubleshooting electrical issues

  • Upgrading panels or wiring

  • Ensuring compliance with local electrical codes

Training & Licensing:
Electricians usually complete a multi-year apprenticeship or attend a technical school, followed by a licensing exam based on local or state regulations.

Example:
If a homeowner needs a ceiling fan installed or a faulty breaker repaired, they would call a licensed electrician.

Electrical Contractor: The Project Manager

Focus:
An electrical contractor is a person or company licensed to design, manage, and execute electrical construction projects. They often employ or subcontract licensed electricians to carry out the physical work.

Typical Tasks:

  • Planning and designing electrical systems for buildings

  • Managing project timelines and budgets

  • Hiring and supervising electricians

  • Securing necessary permits and ensuring code compliance

Training & Certification:
Electrical contractors typically have significant experience as electricians, plus business knowledge. In many areas, they must hold a specialized contractor license that allows them to bid on large-scale projects.

Example:
For a new office building or home construction project, the electrical contractor would create the electrical layout, handle the permitting process, hire electricians, and oversee all installation work.

Key Differences at a Glance:

Feature Electrician Electrical Contractor
Primary Role Performs physical electrical work Manages and oversees electrical projects
Type Individual tradesperson Individual or business entity
Licensing Journeyman or master electrician license Contractor license plus electrician credentials
Employment Can work independently or for a contractor Typically owns or runs a business and hires electricians
Scope of Work Repairs, installations, maintenance Project design, management, compliance

When to Call an Electrician vs. an Electrical Contractor

  • Call an electrician if you need help with everyday electrical issues like installing a light fixture, fixing a dead outlet, or upgrading your electrical panel.

  • Hire an electrical contractor for large-scale projects such as new construction, major remodels, or commercial electrical installations that require project planning and multiple electricians.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between an electrician and an electrical contractor helps you make the right call for your electrical needs. If you’re planning a large project, you’ll likely work with both—an electrical contractor for planning and oversight, and electricians to handle the hands-on work.