The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Electricians. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
WHAT ELECTRICIANS DO
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems in homes, businesses, and factories.
Job Duties
PAY
National Average Annual Pay (2019): $60,370
Top 5 States
1. New York
$79,480
2. Illinois
$78,790
3. Hawaiʻi
$77,530
4. Alaska
$75,350
5. Oregon
$74,920
Bottom 5 States
50. Arkansas
$44,180
49. North Carolina
$45,460
48. Florida
$45,720
47. South Dakota
$46,540
46. South Carolina
$46,920
STEPS TO BECOME AN ELECTRICIAN
There are a couple of different ways to gain the training to become an electrician.
The first is to attend a technical or trade school. Many technical schools offer programs related to circuitry, safety practices, and basic electrical information. Graduates of these programs usually receive credit toward their apprenticeship.
The second is to go through an apprenticeship program. Electrician apprenticeships usually last 4-5 years. For each year of the program, apprentices typically receive 2,000 hours of paid on-the-job training as well as some technical instruction.
Most states require electricians to pass a test and be licensed. Requirements can vary state by state and more information can be found on the National Electrical Contractors Association’s website.
Option 1: Technical School
Many technical schools offer programs related to circuitry, safety practices, and basic electrical information. Graduates of these programs usually receive credit toward their apprenticeship.
Option 2: Apprenticeship
Electrician apprenticeship programs usually last 4-5 years.
Get Licensed
Advance to Journey-Level Worker
Advance to Master Electrician
QUALITIES OF ELECTRICIANS
Color Vision
Electricians must identify electrical wires by color.
Physical Strength
Electricians need to be strong enough to move heavy components, which may weigh up to 50 pounds.
Physical Stamina
Electricians often need to move around all day while running wire and connecting fixtures to the wire.
Customer-Service Skills
Electricians work with people on a regular basis. They should be friendly and be able to address customers’ questions.
Critical- Thinking Skills
Electricians perform tests and use the results to diagnose problems. For example, when an outlet is not working, they may use a multimeter to check the voltage, amperage, or resistance in order to determine the best course of action.
Trouble-Shooting Skills
Electricians find, diagnose, and repair problems. For example, if a motor stops working, they perform tests to determine the cause of its failure and then, depending on the results, fix or replace the motor.