Electrician Career Guide

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. They ensure systems meet code and safety standards.

Median Salary

$61,590

Job Growth (10yr)

+11%

Annual Openings

79,900/yr

BLS SOC Code

47-2111

A Day in the Life

Reading blueprints and technical diagrams
Installing conduit, wiring, and circuit breakers
Testing circuits using voltmeters and oscilloscopes
Troubleshooting outages and electrical faults
Collaborating with contractors and inspectors

Training & Requirements

High school diploma or GED
4–5 year apprenticeship (IBEW or NECA)
Journeyman electrician license (state exam)
Master electrician license for independent contracting

Licensing Path

Complete a 4–5 year apprenticeship through IBEW or NECA, log 8,000 hours, pass state journeyman exam. Master license requires additional experience + exam.