Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for an Electrical Coordinator

🎯 Role Definition

As our Electrical Coordinator, you will be the cornerstone of our electrical project execution. You are a problem-solver and a master communicator, responsible for the seamless coordination of all electrical trade activities from inception to completion. You will leverage your deep technical expertise to ensure design intent is realized in the field, all installations meet rigorous safety and quality codes, and project milestones are achieved. This position is critical for mitigating risk, controlling costs, and delivering exceptional results for our clients.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Journeyman Electrician / Electrical Foreman
Project Engineer
Electrical Designer/Drafter

Advancement To:

Electrical Superintendent
MEP Project Manager
Construction Project Manager

Lateral Moves:

MEP Coordinator
Quality Control Manager
Construction Estimator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Serve as the primary point of contact for all electrical-related project activities, effectively liaising between general contractors, subcontractors, engineers, and clients.
Oversee and manage the complete lifecycle of electrical installations, from pre-construction planning and procurement to final commissioning and project closeout.
Meticulously review and interpret electrical blueprints, single-line diagrams, schematics, and contract specifications to ensure accuracy and constructability.
Proactively manage the Request for Information (RFI) and submittal process for all electrical components, materials, and equipment, ensuring timely responses and approvals.
Coordinate the procurement and delivery of long-lead electrical equipment and materials, tracking inventory to prevent project delays and cost overruns.
Develop, maintain, and manage the detailed electrical project schedule, aligning it with the master project timeline and coordinating with other trades to avoid conflicts.
Conduct regular on-site inspections and quality control checks to verify that all electrical work is performed in strict accordance with project plans, specifications, and industry best practices.
Ensure unwavering compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC), local building codes, OSHA safety regulations, and all project-specific safety protocols.
Lead and document electrical coordination meetings, effectively communicating progress, identifying potential issues, and driving resolution of on-site challenges.
Actively participate in Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) coordination meetings to resolve clashes and optimize installation pathways.
Prepare and distribute detailed progress reports, daily logs, and schedule updates to project management, highlighting key milestones and potential risks.
Assist the project management team in evaluating, pricing, and processing electrical change orders and tracking their impact on budget and schedule.
Coordinate and oversee the startup, testing, and commissioning of all electrical systems, including switchgear, panelboards, lighting controls, and fire alarm systems.
Manage the project closeout process, including the compilation and submission of as-built drawings, Operations & Maintenance (O&M) manuals, and warranty documentation.
Troubleshoot complex on-site electrical issues, providing technical guidance and direction to field crews and subcontractors to ensure timely and effective resolutions.
Plan and coordinate critical electrical shutdowns and tie-ins with facility managers and other stakeholders to minimize disruption to ongoing operations.
Provide mentorship and technical support to junior staff, foremen, and field electricians, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
Monitor subcontractor manpower, resource allocation, and productivity to ensure alignment with project goals and contractual obligations.
Champion a site-wide safety culture, leading by example and actively participating in safety audits, toolbox talks, and incident investigations related to electrical work.
Manage the electrical permit and inspection process with the relevant Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to ensure all necessary approvals are obtained without delay.
Review and verify subcontractor monthly pay applications, ensuring the work claimed accurately reflects the progress completed on-site.

Secondary Functions

Assist the pre-construction team with constructability reviews and value engineering suggestions.
Participate in the project closeout process, ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate.
Provide technical support and mentorship to junior project engineers and field personnel.
Contribute to the continuous improvement of company standards and electrical installation procedures.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Deep understanding of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local electrical codes.
High proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical blueprints, schematics, and riser diagrams.
Experience with project management software (e.g., Procore, Primavera P6, Microsoft Project).
Knowledge of low, medium, and high-voltage electrical systems and installations.
Proficiency with BIM/VDC software (e.g., Navisworks, Revit) for clash detection and coordination.
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Familiarity with electrical estimating principles and change order management.

Soft Skills

Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for coordinating with diverse teams.
Advanced problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities to address complex field issues.
Superior organizational and time-management skills to handle multiple priorities simultaneously.
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to guide and motivate field teams and subcontractors.
Meticulous attention to detail to ensure quality control and document accuracy.
Proactive and collaborative mindset with a focus on project success.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED, combined with a completed electrical apprenticeship program or equivalent trade school certification.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field of study.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Construction Management
Electrical Engineering or Engineering Technology
Project Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-7 years of progressive experience in the electrical trade, with demonstrated experience in a coordination or leadership role on commercial or industrial construction projects.

Preferred: Experience on large-scale projects ($10M+ electrical scope), specific expertise in healthcare, data center, or manufacturing facilities. Journeyman or Master Electrician license is a strong plus.