Key Insights
Electricians are a dynamic career within the sector, offering a unique blend of opportunities and challenges for professionals seeking meaningful work.
The median annual salary for this occupation is $62,350, which is above the typical salary for this field. Over the next decade, employment is projected to grow by 9.0%, following overall growth trends and steady opportunities . The automation risk for this occupation is 35.0%. This suggests a high degree of job security, as automation is less likely to impact this role in the near future. Work-life balance is rated as 5.1, which can be an important factor for job satisfaction and overall well-being.
Individuals with Realistic, Conventional, or Investigative personality traits tend to thrive in this career. Key skills for success include Color vision, Critical-thinking skills, Customer-service skills, Physical stamina, Physical strength, Troubleshooting skills. Developing and refining these abilities can set you apart from other candidates and help you excel in your role. Notable strengths for this occupation are High Demand, Flexible Work, Continuous Learning. Leveraging these strengths can lead to greater job satisfaction and career advancement. Some common challenges professionals may encounter include Burnout Risk, Rapid Technological Change. Being aware of these potential obstacles can help you prepare and develop strategies to overcome them.
The highest employment levels for this occupation are found in California, offering strong job prospects in that region. The leading industry for this role is Government, excluding state and local education and hospitals, which may provide additional opportunities for specialization and growth.
Whether you are just starting your career journey or looking to make a change, Electricians offers a compelling mix of salary potential, job outlook, and personal fit. By understanding the key factors that influence success in this field, you can make informed decisions and position yourself for long-term achievement.
What They Do
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Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems and equipment in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities. They read blueprints, follow electrical codes, and ensure safe, reliable power distribution. Their work is critical in construction, maintenance, and energy industries.
This career is well suited for individuals who enjoy hands-on technical work, problem-solving, and working with electrical systems.
What Do Electricians Do?
These professionals set up electrical wiring, troubleshoot problems, and ensure systems operate safely and efficiently.
Common responsibilities include:
- Installing and connecting wiring, outlets, and electrical panels
- Inspecting electrical systems for safety and code compliance
- Diagnosing and repairing electrical malfunctions
- Reading and interpreting blueprints, schematics, and technical diagrams
- Testing electrical components and systems
- Maintaining tools, equipment, and safety standards
- Coordinating with contractors, engineers, and clients
Key Areas of Electrical Work
Electricians may specialize in specific systems or environments:
- Residential Wiring: Installing and repairing electrical systems in homes
- Commercial and Industrial Systems: Working with large-scale wiring and machinery
- Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Diagnosing and fixing electrical issues
- Installation of Electrical Equipment: Setting up lighting, control systems, and appliances
- Safety and Code Compliance: Ensuring adherence to local, state, and national regulations
Skills and Abilities Needed
Electricians combine technical, analytical, and safety-focused skills.
Core Professional Skills
- Electrical system installation and repair - Blueprint and schematic reading - Electrical diagnostics and troubleshooting - Knowledge of electrical codes and safety standards - Use of hand and power tools - Preventive maintenance and system testingPersonal Qualities That Matter
- Attention to detail and precision - Manual dexterity and physical stamina - Problem-solving and critical thinking - Safety-conscious and reliable - Communication and teamwork skills - Adaptability and persistenceEducation and Career Pathway
This role typically requires vocational training or apprenticeships:
- High School Diploma or GED (minimum): Basic math, physics, and technical skills
- Apprenticeship or Vocational Training: Learning wiring, installation, and electrical codes
- On-the-Job Training: Gaining practical experience under supervision
- Licensing or Certification (varies by state): Required to work independently as an electrician
- Continuous Learning: Staying updated on new technologies, codes, and safety standards
Where Do Electricians Work?
They are employed in construction, maintenance, and energy industries:
- Residential and Commercial Construction
- Industrial and Manufacturing Facilities
- Utility and Energy Companies
- Maintenance and Repair Services
- Self-Employed or Contracting
Work environments include construction sites, homes, commercial buildings, factories, and outdoor installations.
Is This Career Difficult?
This career requires technical knowledge, physical ability, and safety awareness. Electricians must work carefully with high-voltage systems, follow codes, and troubleshoot complex problems.
Who Should Consider This Career?
This career may be a strong fit if you:
- Enjoy hands-on technical work with electrical systems
- Are detail-oriented and safety-conscious
- Can solve complex problems and troubleshoot
- Have physical stamina and manual dexterity
- Want a career in construction, maintenance, or energy systems
How to Prepare Early
- Take courses in electricity, physics, or industrial arts
- Gain experience through apprenticeships or vocational programs
- Develop skills in wiring, installation, and troubleshooting
- Learn safety procedures and electrical codes
- Explore certifications or licenses required for electricians
Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical systems, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient operation in homes, businesses, and industrial facilities.
Career Video
Key facts
Top Skills
StartRight Career Intelligence Metrics
Job Growth Outlook
+9.0%Automation Risk Assessment
Medium RiskWork-Life Balance Score
5.1/10Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Powered by O*NET Career Profiling
Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor
Strengths
- High Demand
- Flexible Work
- Continuous Learning
Challenges
- Burnout Risk
- Rapid Technological Change
Median Salary Comparison
Employment projection (2024–2034)
Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis
BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05States with Highest Employment
- California 73,420
- Texas 71,880
- Florida 47,980
- New York 40,380
- Ohio 27,150
- Michigan 24,670
- Virginia 24,300
- North Carolina 23,660
- Illinois 22,880
- Pennsylvania 21,860
Regional Wage Variations
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California +23%$76,540
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Texas -9%$56,920
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Florida -15%$53,100
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New York +24%$77,460
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Ohio 2%$63,560
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Michigan +17%$72,680
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Virginia -1%$61,610
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North Carolina -13%$54,070
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Illinois +55%$96,360
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Pennsylvania 5%$65,400