Electricians
Overview
Introduction
Electricians design, assemble, install, test, and repair electrical fixtures and wiring. They work on a wide range of electrical and data communications systems that provide light, heat, refrigeration, air-conditioning, power, and the ability to communicate. There are approximately 779,800 electricians working in the United States.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, median hourly earnings of electricians were $29.61 in May 2023 ($61,590 annually). Wages ranged from less than $18.49 ($38,470 annually) for the lowest paid 10 percent to more than $50.09 an hour ($104,180 annually) for the highest paid 10 percent. Beginning apprentices earn 40 to 50 percent of the base electricians wage and receive periodic increases ...
Work Environment
Although electricians may work for the same contractor for many years, they work on different projects and at different work sites. In a single year, they may install wiring in a new housing project, rewire a factory, or install computer or telecommunications wiring in an office, for instance. Electricians usually work indoors, although some must do tasks outdoors or in buildings that are still...
Outlook
Employment of electricians will grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Growth will result from an overall increase in both residential and commercial construction. In addition, growth will be driven by the ever-expanding use of electrical and electronic devices and equipment. Electricians will be called on to upgrade o...
