If you’re considering a career as an electrician, congratulations! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for electricians is expected to grow a respectable 9% over the next five to 10 years. But you may be wondering what the career path of an electrician looks like. Let’s look at a typical trajectory, but keep in mind your path may lead in different directions.
Electrician’s Helper
This starting point is a good opportunity to see if electrical work appeals to you.
An electrician’s helper doesn’t need a license or coursework – just a willingness to work hard and learn. Your job duties could include hauling equipment, drilling holes for wires, pulling wires and cutting outlet holes. You may also get experience testing wires with a voltage meter.
Apprentice Electrician
This is the first step that involves “formal” education. During your apprenticeship, you’ll get about 8,000 hours of on-the-job training under the direct supervision of a licensed electrician. You’ll also spend around 300 hours in the classroom doing approved coursework. And you’ll be paid while you learn.
Journeyman Electrician
At the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll have the opportunity to take a journeyman electrician exam – a significant milestone. As a journeyman, you’ll get experience in residential and commercial jobs installing, repairing and maintaining electrical systems. You’ll also learn some of the finer points of electrical work, like how to read blueprints and provide cost estimates.
The journeyman phase is also when you’ll start to get the feel for what specific positions are available to you – and which hold the most interest for you. Take a look at some of your options.
- Foreman
- Project manager
- Estimator
- Sales representative
- Purchasing agent
- Inspector
- Instructor
Master Electrician
Licensed master electricians are truly the masters of their craft. They have ample experience, and they know the National Electrical Code like the back of their hand. In Texas, the average master electrician makes more than $61,000 a year, and in cities like Dallas, that annual average jumps to $78,000.
Business Owner
For many people, owning their own business is the ultimate dream. If that describes you, owning your own electrical contracting company could be the summit of your career climb.
Contact TradeSTAR Today
Are you ready to take the next step toward a career as an electrician? TradeSTAR works with top employers with several offices across Texas for your convenience. If you’re on the hunt for a technician opportunity, contact our team today or browse our online job search portal.
