An electrician is a tradesman specializing in electrical wiring of buildings, stationary machines and related equipment. Electricians may be employed in the installation of new electrical components or the maintenance and repair of existing electrical infrastructure. Electricians may also specialize in wiring ships, airplanes and other mobile platforms.

“Electrician” and “electrical contractor” are related, though sometimes confused terms. An electrician is an individual tradesperson; an electrical contractor is a business person or firm that employs electricians to help design, install, and maintain electrical systems. In most of the United States, separate licensing requirements exist for electricians and electrical contractors. Electricians are typically not allowed to perform work unless under the employment of an electrical contractor.